Targeted therapeutic immune response

This chapter first provides a description of immunity in general and then more specifically, immunity in the mucosal immune system. The immune response of both intestinal and respiratory tracts will be described in detail as these are the two most common portals of targeted vaccine development for mucosal immunity. The chapter will cover the basis of mucosal immunity using plant-based oral vaccines. Strategies for increasing mucosal immunity, such as the use of adjuvants, will also be discussed. Finally, the chapter will cover the precliiucal tests and various cliiucal trials that are taking place with respect to production of human and veterinary therapeutic proteins in plants. 

In addition to the direct cytotoxic effect of PDT on the cells in the tissues and the vasculature targeting there are substantial documentation from in vivo models and some clinical documentation that immunological effects contribute to the therapeutic effect of PDT, in particular for cancer therapy [36-38]. Both attraction of inflammatory cells and other immune reactions have been observed after PDT, but this is beyond the scope of this review. However, the immune response and antitumor immunity induced by PDT as well as PCI of bleomycin has been described in several reviews [39, 40]. 

Vector Transfer efficiency in vivo Sustainability of therapeutic effect Level of expression Target ceils Potential risks Host immune response... 

Understanding the molecular basis of immune responses has allowed the definition of mechanisms by which cellular function is altered by local hormones or autacoids in infections, cancer, autoimmune diseases, and organ transplant rejection. These processes present targets for therapeutic intervention. 

---