February 18, 2025

Investigating the Potential of Needle-Free Ultrasound Vaccine Delivery

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 25% of adults and 66% of children have a fear of needles. This fear often discourages people from receiving vaccines, which are typically administered through injections. However, a doctoral student at the University of Oxford’s Institute of Biomedical Engineering named Darcy Dunn-Lawless is exploring the possibility of painless, needle-free vaccine delivery using ultrasound technology. Dunn-Lawless will be presenting his recent advancements in this innovative technique at the Acoustics 2023 Sydney conference, which will be held from December 4th to 8th at the International Convention Center Sydney. His presentation is scheduled for December 4th at 11:00 a.m. Australian Eastern Daylight Time.

The novel method utilized by Dunn-Lawless relies on a phenomenon known as “cavitation,” which occurs when bubbles are formed and burst in response to sound waves. The goal is to harness the concentrated bursts of mechanical energy generated by these bubble collapses in three main ways: first, to create passages in the outer layer of dead skin cells to facilitate the delivery of vaccine molecules; second, to act as a pump that drives the drug molecules into these passages; and lastly, to open up the membranes surrounding the cells themselves, as certain types of vaccines require entry into the cells to function effectively.

Although initial tests conducted on live subjects indicated that the cavitation approach delivered 700 times fewer vaccine molecules compared to traditional injections, the immune response generated by the cavitation approach was significantly higher. The researchers hypothesize that this could be attributed to the ultrasonic delivery targeting the immune-rich skin, in contrast to injections that primarily reach the muscles. Consequently, this technique offers the potential for a more efficient vaccine delivery method that is not only cost-effective but also enhances efficacy while minimizing the risk of side effects.

Dunn-Lawless cautions that the primary potential side effect of this needle-free ultrasound vaccine delivery is similar to other physical medical techniques—excessive application of energy can damage tissue. Exposure to excessive cavitation may lead to mechanical damage to cells and structures. However, there is strong evidence suggesting that such damage can be prevented by limiting exposure. Therefore, a critical aspect of Dunn-Lawless’ research is determining the safety threshold for vaccine delivery to ensure that potential harm is mitigated.

Working under the guidance of Dr. Mike Gray, Professor Bob Carlisle, and Professor Constantin Coussios at Oxford’s Biomedical Ultrasonics, Biotherapy and Biopharmaceuticals Laboratory (BUBBL), Dunn-Lawless is collaborating with a larger team. Their cavitation approach shows particular promise for DNA vaccines, which are currently challenging to deliver. By utilizing cavitation to facilitate the opening of membranes that hinder therapeutic access to the cell nucleus, the unique advantages of DNA vaccines, such as a targeted immune response, reduced infection risk, and enhanced shelf stability, can be fully realized.

In conclusion, Dunn-Lawless’ investigation into needle-free ultrasound vaccine delivery holds significant potential for revolutionizing the way vaccines are administered. This innovative approach could alleviate the fear and discomfort associated with needle injections, while also improving the efficiency and effectiveness of vaccination programs. By addressing concerns related to safety thresholds and refining the cavitation technique, this research has the potential to make a positive impact on public health.

*Note:

  1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
  2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
Money Singh
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Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemicals and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. 

Money Singh

Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemicals and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. 

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