adjuvánsek

Adjuvans is a term used in immunology and medicine to describe a substance that enhances or potentiates the immune response to an antigen. Adjuvants are often administered with vaccines to improve their immunogenicity, meaning they help the immune system recognize and respond more effectively to the vaccine's antigen. This leads to a stronger and more long-lasting immune protection.

The exact mechanisms by which adjuvants work are diverse and can involve several pathways. Some adjuvants act as depot, slowly releasing the antigen at the injection site, which allows for a prolonged exposure of immune cells to the antigen. Others stimulate the innate immune system by activating pattern recognition receptors, which in turn triggers a more robust adaptive immune response. Some adjuvants can also influence the type of immune response generated, for example, promoting a humoral (antibody-based) response or a cell-mediated response.

Commonly used adjuvants include aluminum salts (alum), which have been used for decades. Newer adjuvants, such as MF59, AS03, and CpG oligonucleotides, are also being developed and employed. These newer adjuvants often offer improved efficacy and safety profiles.

Adjuvants are crucial components of many modern vaccines, particularly those that use inactivated pathogens or subunit antigens, which are less immunogenic on their own. By boosting the immune response, adjuvants can enable the use of lower doses of antigen, potentially reducing vaccine costs and side effects. Research continues to explore novel adjuvant formulations to further enhance vaccine effectiveness and broaden their applications.