Vaccines

Question 1

What is a vaccine and why are they used?

Answer 1

Vaccines stimulate an immune response to prevent or mitigate infectious diseases.

Question 2

Types of vaccines

Answer 2

Live Attenuated: Weakened pathogens (e.g., MMR).
Inactivated: Killed pathogens (e.g., polio).
Subunit: Specific antigens (e.g., HPV).
mRNA: Encodes antigens for in vivo expression (e.g., COVID-19).
Viral Vector: Delivers genetic material via harmless viruses (e.g., Ebola).

Question 3

Vaccine components and there purpose?

Answer 3

Antigen: Triggers immune response.
Adjuvant: Enhances immune reaction.
Stabilisers: Preserve vaccine integrity.
Preservatives: Prevent contamination.

Question 4

Modern research approaches

Answer 4

Genomic sequencing, bioinformatics, and high-throughput screening to identify antigens.
mRNA and recombinant technologies for rapid development.

Question 5

Manafacture and design of vaccines

Answer 5

Stages: Antigen production → purification → formulation → quality control.
Informs design to optimise efficacy, safety, and scalability.