Mode of action of adjuvants

Five different adjuvant mechanisms of action have been identified:

• immunomodulation, linked to the ability of adjuvants to modify cytokine synthesis, particularly by antigen-presenting cells;

• presentation and the ability of the adjuvant to preserve the integrity of the antigen and present it to the appropriate immunocompetent cells;

• induction of cytotoxic CD8+ lymphocytes;

• targeting, linked to the adjuvant's ability to deliver antigen to immune effector cells via antigen-presenting cells;

• progressive release of antigen from a solid matrix.

The use of adjuvants reduces the number of injections and the amount of antigen required for vaccination. Adjuvants can be administered...