Abstract

The development of effective vaccines relies on inducing robust immune responses, particularly at mucosal surfaces where many pathogens first enter the body. Traditional vaccines often focus on systemic immunity, but recent advancements have highlighted the importance of mucosal immunity for protection against respiratory, gastrointestinal, and sexually transmitted infections. This review discusses novel approaches in vaccine design aimed at enhancing mucosal immune responses, including delivery systems, adjuvants, and antigen selection strategies. Understanding and harnessing mucosal immunity will pave the way for next-generation vaccines capable of preventing a broader range of infectious diseases.