Early events in the interaction of antigens/microorganisms with the intestinal epithelial cells and intestinal dendritic cells : development of new innovative oral delivery system.

Vaccination is regarded as the most efficient and cost-effective way to prevent infectious diseases.

Vaccine design nowadays focuses on the implementation of safer recombinant subunit vaccines. However, these recombinant subunit antigens are often poor immunogens and several strategies are currently under investigation to enhance their immunogenicity. The encapsulation of the antigens in biodegradable microparticulate delivery systems seems a promising strategy to boost their immunogenicity. Here, we evaluate the capacity of polyelectrolyte microparticles (PEMs), fabricated by single step spray-drying, to deliver antigens to porcine dendritic cells and how these particles affect the functional maturation of dendritic cells (DCs).