How could engineered proteins be used in targeted vaccines?

In the context of synthetic biology, engineered proteins and the genetic sequences that encode them are fundamental to modern vaccine development. Rather than using whole, live pathogens, researchers use these technologies to create highly targeted immune responses.12

Engineered proteins can be utilized in targeted vaccines in the following ways:

• Subunit Vaccines: Scientists identify specific proteins found on the surface of a pathogen that are known to stimulate an immune response. These antigens can be mass-produced and administered directly to train the immune system to recognize the infectious agent.13
• Genetic Instruction (mRNA and DNA Vaccines): Instead of injecting the protein itself, synthetic biology allows researchers to inject DNA or mRNA that encodes the target protein. Once inside the body, the recipient's own cells act as a factory, producing the benign protein fragment. This fragment is then displayed on the cell surface, triggering the production of antibodies without the risk of actual infection.123
• Viruslike Particles (VLPs): Using recombinant DNA technology, researchers can engineer proteins to self-assemble into structures that mimic the appearance of a virus. Because these particles lack genetic material, they are incapable of causing disease while remaining highly effective at stimulating immunity.1