What role do recombinant DNA and bacterial cells play in vaccine production?

Recombinant DNA technology allows scientists to manipulate genetic material, making it possible to insert specific genes that code for antigens—substances that trigger an immune response—into bacterial cells. When these modified bacterial cells are cultivated, they express the inserted genes and produce the corresponding antigens. These antigens can be used in vaccines to stimulate the body’s immune system to recognize and fight against specific pathogens, such as viruses or bacteria, without causing the disease itself.

This method is efficient and provides a safe way to produce vaccines, as the bacterial cells act as factories for generating the needed antigens in large quantities. This process is fundamental in modern vaccine production, particularly for vaccines against diseases like hepatitis B, where the surface protein of the virus is produced by genetically engineered yeast or bacteria, ultimately leading to a safer and more effective immunization strategy.