With reference to recent developments regarding ‘Recombinant Vector Vaccines’, consider the following statements:
1. Genetic engineering is applied in the development of these vaccines.
2. Bacteria and viruses are used as vectors.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: Developing recombinant vector vaccines relies centrally on recombinant DNA technology and genetic engineering. Molecular biologists isolate the gene coding for the desired protective antigen (such as the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2) and splice it into the genetic backbone of an attenuated delivery vector.
Statement 2 is correct: Both viruses and bacteria can serve as carrier vectors:
– Viral vectors: Modified, replication-deficient adenoviruses, poxviruses, or vesicular stomatitis viruses (e.g., AstraZeneca-Covishield, Sputnik V, Ebola vaccine).
– Bacterial vectors: Attenuated bacteria like Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, or BCG engineered to express foreign antigens in mucosal immunization strategies.
Thus, both statements 1 and 2 are correct — Option C.