Can the AstraZeneca vaccine be called also as a DNA vaccine?

In summary, the conversation discusses the differences between DNA vaccines and the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, which uses a vector virus to deliver the DNA code for spike proteins of the SARS-CoV2 virus. The question is raised whether the AstraZeneca vaccine can be considered a DNA vaccine as well, but it is concluded that it is better to use the term "adenovirus-vectored vaccine" to avoid confusion. The conversation ultimately agrees to follow international terminology and refer to the AstraZeneca vaccine as a viral vector vaccine.
  • #1
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Can the Oxford–AstraZeneca COVID-19 (viral vector) vaccine also be called a DNA vaccine, since it contains genetic material (DNA) for producing spike proteins of the SARS-CoV2 virus inside the host cell?
In my understanding, in the human host, the Oxford–AstraZeneca vaccine delivers the DNA genetic code for the production of spike proteins of the SARS-CoV2 virus, inside a vector virus. DNA vaccines deliver them through plasmids.

Apart from this delivery mode, is there any difference between the DNA vaccines and Oxford–AstraZeneca (or Sputnik V) vaccine in the mechanism of the production of spike proteins inside the host cell?

If not, can we call the AstraZeneca vector vaccine a DNA vaccine also?

Pardon my silly question, but it is nagging me.
 
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  • #2
It's just a matter of terminology, and as long as one communicates clearly, that is fine. For most purposes, I think it would be better to follow current convention and not call the AstraZeneca (AZ) vaccine a DNA vaccine. The AZ vaccine is usually called an adenovirus-vectored vaccine. I think it is clearer to use that terminology because the way that the DNA gets into cells is presumably different between an adenovirus-vectored vaccine like AZ and a DNA vaccine like ZyCoV-D.
 
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  • #3
By delivery, it's a viral vector vaccine. By action, it is a DNA vaccine. Even I could discern the confusion. :smile:

Let's follow the international terminology - it is a viral vector vaccine.

Thanks.
 

1. Can the AstraZeneca vaccine be considered a DNA vaccine?

Yes, the AstraZeneca vaccine uses a viral vector to deliver DNA instructions to cells to create the spike protein found on the surface of the COVID-19 virus.

2. How is the AstraZeneca vaccine different from other DNA vaccines?

The AstraZeneca vaccine uses a non-replicating viral vector to deliver the DNA instructions, while other DNA vaccines use different methods such as plasmids or naked DNA.

3. Is the AstraZeneca vaccine safe since it is a DNA vaccine?

Yes, the AstraZeneca vaccine has undergone rigorous safety testing and has been approved by regulatory bodies in multiple countries. The use of DNA technology in vaccines has been extensively studied and has been shown to be safe.

4. Are there any potential long-term effects of the AstraZeneca DNA vaccine?

Long-term effects of the AstraZeneca DNA vaccine are currently unknown, but ongoing studies and monitoring are being conducted to ensure the safety of the vaccine.

5. Can the AstraZeneca vaccine alter a person's DNA?

No, the AstraZeneca vaccine does not alter a person's DNA. The DNA instructions delivered by the vaccine are temporary and do not integrate into a person's genetic code.

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