How do DNA vaccines cause cells to make an antigen?

DNA vaccines function by introducing specific segments of a pathogen's genetic material into the body. Once administered, typically through a process known as naked DNA therapy, these DNA segments are taken up by the individual's cells, such as muscle cells.12

Inside these cells, the provided genetic information is utilized as a set of instructions to synthesize the specific immune-stimulating proteins, or antigens, associated with the infectious agent. By producing these foreign proteins internally, the cells effectively present them to the immune system. This process mimics a natural infection, which triggers the body to produce antibodies and establish long-lasting immunity against the targeted disease without the risk of causing the illness itself.12