Rice to carry cholera vaccine!

A team of Japanese researchers have developed a type of rice that can carry a vaccine for cholera, a step that could one day ease delivery of vaccines in developing countries.

The vaccine in capsule form gives it an advantage over other oral cholera vaccines. One advantage is refrigeration is no longer required, and it's more friendly (and safe) without the use of needles. It has proven effective in producing antibodies in mice, which have neutralizing activities against toxins.

Rice protein is also stable in an acidic environment and can withstand digestion in the stomach. This ensures the vaccine is delivered into the intestine where it is needed to trigger an immune response to fight cholera bacteria.

Source: reuters.comAdded: 2 July 2007