Edible DNA Origami Nanostructures: Food-grade Platforms for Oral Vaccine Delivery and Functional Foods Targeting Mucosal Immunity

Harsh Purohit, Veda Pandya, Ayushi Vasani, Bhakti Valadorasiya and Kevin Vaghasiya

Abstract

Edible DNA origami nanostructures have emerged as an innovative, foodgrade approach for oral vaccine delivery, addressing critical challenges associated with traditional vaccination methods. This review comprehensively explores the design, functionalization, and application of DNA origami platforms tailored for food-based mucosal immunization. We systematically examined the foundational principles of DNA origami technology, focusing on its intrinsic advantages such as biocompatibility, precise antigen arrangement, and potential for targeting mucosal immunity via the gastrointestinal tract. Through a critical synthesis of recent peer-reviewed literature, we identified successful strategies for integrating DNA origami vaccines into functional food matrices, including encapsulation techniques, antigen-adjuvant co-delivery, and mucosal targeting approaches. Key findings indicate that DNA origami nanostructures effectively enhance the immunogenicity and stability of orally administered vaccines, induce robust mucosal IgA responses, and show superior flexibility and precision compared to conventional edible nanocarriers. However, challenges such as manufacturing scalability, stability optimization in food and biological environments, and regulatory considerations remain significant hurdles. Addressing these challenges through ongoing interdisciplinary research is essential for translating edible DNA origami platforms into viable immunotherapeutic products. Overall, this review highlights the transformative potential of DNA origami-based edible vaccines to revolutionize preventive health strategies, improve vaccine accessibility, and establish a new paradigm for immunization through functional foods.

Published on: July 03, 2025
doi: 10.17756/jfcn.2025-s2-004
Citation: Purohit H, Pandya V, Vasani A, Valadorasiya B, Vaghasiya K. 2025. Edible DNA Origami Nanostructures: Food-grade Platforms for Oral Vaccine Delivery and Functional Foods Targeting Mucosal Immunity. J Food Chem Nanotechnol 11(S2): S32-S46.

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