Alternative Methods of Vaccine Delivery: An Overview of Edible and Intradermal Vaccines

Criscuolo, E.; Caputo, V.; Diotti, R. A.; Sautto, G. A.; Kirchenbaum, G. A.; Clementi, N.

Intradermal vaccination designates the delivery of an antigen directly into the dermis with a syringe, a needle, a microneedle, or a pressure injector. The standard intradermal immunization technique was invented by the French physician Charles Mantoux in 1910, while he was developing the tuberculin test. This technique allows the injection of 100-200 μL of vaccine solution. However, Mantoux's technique requires skilled medical personnel to be performed [103] . Recent advancements have led to the development of techniques and instruments that can overcome the difficulties associated with intradermal administration [104] . In fact, different devices have been developed over the years for intradermal vaccination. Among them, solid microneedles, particle injectors, and self-administrable patches with coated microprojections or biodegradable needles have been described [105] . As previously mentioned, intradermal vaccination can induce mucosal and systemic immunities. These immunological capabilities, coupled with its ease of access, make the intradermal route an attractive vaccination delivery target [106] .