Transdermal vaccine delivery

Apollo Life Sciences has announced it has successfully delivered a vaccine without needles, by applying it topically to the skin of mice using the company's transdermal delivery technology. The technology could spell the end of injections for tetanus, flu and many other vaccine, according to Apollo's CEO, John Priest.

The studies showed that tetanus toxoid delivered by topical application to the skin using Apollo's formulation technology was more effective at generating an antibody response than injection of tetanus toxoid.

Standard vaccines are widely used to protect against childhood diseases such as diphtheria and whooping cough and for global epidemics such as bird flu and are usually injected.

Mr Priest said the technology had a second major application as a platform for transdermal delivery of a topical TNF blocker. "We believe our technology will make a big difference and so we have fast tracked its development. Both applications have the potential to dramatically reduce the cost of drugs currently delivered other ways, including infusions and injections.

"Topical vaccines could also save health systems substantial amounts of money. This approach will avoid needle stick injuries and can be delivered conveniently and easily without medical intervention. Topical vaccines also offer the benefits of being easier and quicker to deploy and cheaper and easier to store than conventional injectable vaccines," Mr Priest said.

The current market for compatibles is worth approximately US$9 billion globally with a 10-12% annual growth rate.