DNA Technology May Revolutionize Flu Vaccine

In 2010, the SynCon H5N1 vaccine will undergo human testing in healthy volunteers, followed by tests in combination with the SynCon H1N1 vaccine.

Potential Pitfall

"If we are correct, we can revolutionize how flu vaccines are made and delivered," Dr. Kim said. One potential pitfall of the DNA vaccine technology is the impending backlash from vaccine naysayers, cautioned Dr. Schaffner. "We have a hardcore group of vaccine skeptics," he said. "Any innovation, whether it is the addition of an adjuvant, or a new technology such as this, will come to their attention and draw some of their skepticism and opposition. We have to brace for this."

Dr. Schaffner has been a consultant for various vaccine manufacturers. He also is a member of a data safety committee for Merck for experimental vaccines.

'DNA vaccines can never replicate. They do not infect; they do not cause disease, ever.'

Source DR. KIM