New chlamydia vaccine shows promise after being tested on mice

ConclusionThis animal research has tested out a potential new vaccine against chlamydia, which utilises UV light-killed chlamydia bacteria linked to tiny nanoparticles. The vaccine did protect against chlamydia infection in mice, if it was given directly onto the mucous-producing surfaces of the nose or uterus.Previous attempts to make a chlamydia vaccine have not been successful, and the current research also identified that this may have been due to the type of immune response produced. This new approach prompts a different immune response, including “memory” cells, which remain in the mucosal tissue. These cells prompt an immune response if they are exposed to chlamydia infection again, allowing the mice to fight the infection off more successfully. This type of animal research is essential for the early testing of vaccines and drugs, to make sure they are safe enough for testing on humans. Humans and animals are similar enough for these studies to give an early indication of whether a vaccine may work on humans. However, it will not be possible to say for certain whether this new vaccine is effective and safe until it does reach human trials.Chlamydia is one of the most common STIs in the UK. Although there is no vaccine currently, you can protect yourself by: using a condom every time you have vaginal or anal sex using a condom to cover the penis during oral sex using a dam (a piece of thin, soft plastic or latex) to cover the female genitals during oral s...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Lifestyle/exercise Medication Medical practice Source Type: news