Russian scientists are developing the world’s first oral Covid-19 vaccine that can be consumed directly from a bottle, with a flavor reminiscent of fermented strawberry milk.
According to RT, the Russian Laboratory of Pharmaceuticals in St. Petersburg is conducting preclinical trials on the world’s first edible vaccine against the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the form of a fermented milk drink.
Based on the number of injections and the time required for healthcare workers to administer them, researchers hope that the needle-free technology from Russian scientists can expedite the immunization process for millions of people.
The edible vaccine is currently undergoing preclinical trials. (Photo: RT)
Alexander Dmitriev, Director of the Russian Laboratory of Pharmaceuticals, stated that the gaps in the gene structure of probiotics – found in fermented dairy products – are filled with segments of DNA from the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which aids in the development of antibodies upon consumption.
According to Dmitriev, on one hand, probiotics have a positive effect on the human body. On the other hand, they help individuals develop antibodies against Covid-19. He further explained that the edible vaccine has its own advantages compared to existing Covid-19 vaccines, as it has virtually no contraindications for any demographic.
This scientist noted that any dairy production facility could manufacture this edible vaccine with only minor adjustments to the technological process. Moreover, it does not require ultra-cold storage, needing only temperatures between 4 to 8 degrees Celsius.
Alexander Suvorov, another researcher, mentioned that if a person consumes 200-250 ml of this vaccine solution three times a day and repeats it for 21 days, it is equivalent to receiving a vaccine injection. Additionally, this product can come in various flavors, whether strawberry or natural.
“Simply put, we will pour genetically modified bacteria in powder form into a milk tank. After about a day, we will have a ready-to-use product without the need to filter out impurities, just package and ship it,” he said.
Furthermore, Suvorov revealed that the team of scientists is developing two edible vaccine samples based on milk and soy protein. This vaccine could be completed by 2022.
The Russian Laboratory of Pharmaceuticals has extensive experience in developing vaccines based on probiotics and live bacteria used for making fermented dairy products. In fact, the institute has already produced many similar vaccines against influenza, pneumococcus, and streptococcus.
