Can the AstraZeneca vaccine be called also as a DNA vaccine?

  • Thread starter Thread starter mktsgm
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Dna Vaccine
AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the classification of the Oxford–AstraZeneca vaccine and its mechanism of action compared to DNA vaccines. The AstraZeneca vaccine uses a viral vector to deliver the DNA code for SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins, while traditional DNA vaccines utilize plasmids for delivery. Despite both ultimately leading to the production of spike proteins, the delivery methods differ significantly. Therefore, it is suggested to adhere to established terminology by referring to the AstraZeneca vaccine as an adenovirus-vectored vaccine rather than a DNA vaccine. This distinction helps clarify the differences in how these vaccines operate at a cellular level. The consensus emphasizes the importance of using precise terminology to avoid confusion.
mktsgm
Messages
151
Reaction score
22
TL;DR Summary
Can the Oxford–AstraZeneca COVID-19 (viral vector) vaccine also be called a DNA vaccine, since it contains genetic material (DNA) for producing spike proteins of the SARS-CoV2 virus inside the host cell?
In my understanding, in the human host, the Oxford–AstraZeneca vaccine delivers the DNA genetic code for the production of spike proteins of the SARS-CoV2 virus, inside a vector virus. DNA vaccines deliver them through plasmids.

Apart from this delivery mode, is there any difference between the DNA vaccines and Oxford–AstraZeneca (or Sputnik V) vaccine in the mechanism of the production of spike proteins inside the host cell?

If not, can we call the AstraZeneca vector vaccine a DNA vaccine also?

Pardon my silly question, but it is nagging me.
 
Biology news on Phys.org
It's just a matter of terminology, and as long as one communicates clearly, that is fine. For most purposes, I think it would be better to follow current convention and not call the AstraZeneca (AZ) vaccine a DNA vaccine. The AZ vaccine is usually called an adenovirus-vectored vaccine. I think it is clearer to use that terminology because the way that the DNA gets into cells is presumably different between an adenovirus-vectored vaccine like AZ and a DNA vaccine like ZyCoV-D.
 
  • Like
Likes pinball1970
By delivery, it's a viral vector vaccine. By action, it is a DNA vaccine. Even I could discern the confusion. :smile:

Let's follow the international terminology - it is a viral vector vaccine.

Thanks.
 
https://www.discovermagazine.com/the-deadliest-spider-in-the-world-ends-lives-in-hours-but-its-venom-may-inspire-medical-miracles-48107 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Versutoxin#Mechanism_behind_Neurotoxic_Properties https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0028390817301557 (subscription or purchase requred) The structure of versutoxin (δ-atracotoxin-Hv1) provides insights into the binding of site 3 neurotoxins to the voltage-gated sodium channel...
Back
Top