Evaluation of edible vaccines derived from potatoes expressing cholera toxin B subunit as an alternative strategy for immunization

The development of genetically engineered potatoes as a platform for vaccine delivery presents a ground-breaking advancement in green factory vaccination technology. Traditional vaccination methods, though effective, face challenges related to production cost, distribution, and storage, particularly in resource-limited settings. Plant-based edible vaccines offer an innovative alternative, leveraging genetically modified crops to produce antigenic proteins that stimulate immune responses upon consumption. This work studies the ability of potatoes to be employed as a prospective vector to deliver edible cholera vaccines. It explores their potential for affordable cultivation costs, ease of genetic modification, as well as the extensive reach as a widely consumed crop. In this brief report, we discuss recent advancements in methods of genetic engineering that present improvements in protein expression levels and ensure consumer biosafety alongside eco-friendliness by optimizing antigen stability. With emphasis on case studies focusing on infectious disease vaccines, such as cholera, to demonstrate the efficacy and practicality of this strategy. Furthermore, we tackle some public acceptance strategies and regulatory challenges that are crucial aspects to consider before the development of edible vaccines. Overall, the green factory vaccination technology presents a promising and region-tailored approach for mass immunization. Predominantly in low and middle-income countries by providing an accessible and sustainable solution to the healthcare challenges faced in these zones. Thus, positioning potato-based edible cholera vaccines as a pivotal tool in the next generation of vaccination efforts would spearhead the fight against cholera, globally.