A vaccine made from DNA has for the first time produced a protective immune
response. Eleven patients vaccinated against hepatitis B virus produced copious
antibodies. 鈥淚f antibodies are raised to these levels, individuals are presumed
to be protected,鈥� says Russ Smestad of PowderJect Vaccines in Madison,
Wisconsin. The vaccine鈥攎icroscopic gold beads coated with viral
DNA鈥攚as shot through the skin using compressed helium. Proteins made by
the DNA trigger antibody production.
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