Plant-Based Vaccine Production Through Transient Expression System: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Transient expression systems involve the temporary expression of a foreign gene in plant tissues to enable efficient, high-yield vaccine production. Plant-based systems minimize contamination risks because the introduced gene does not integrate into the host plant genome. Cultivation of host plants (e.g., Nicotiana benthamiana) does not require expensive bioreactors and enables efficient production of vaccines within 3–7 days. Plants can synthesise structurally complex proteins with correct folding and glycosylation, including virus like particles, which are important for eliciting effective immune responses. A commonly employed method for transferring foreign genes into plant cells to achieve transient expression is Agrobacterium tumefaciens–mediated infiltration. These vaccines target a broad range of viral diseases, such as rabies, COVID- 19, Human immunodeficiency virus, influenza, and Newcastle disease virus, as well as non-communicable diseases such as type 1 diabetes and certain cancers. Among various host plants, Nicotiana benthamiana is most widely used due to its high protein yield and ease of transformation. Despite these benefits, gene silencing, limited yields in certain plants, and viral mutations still hinder the effective production of vaccines.
Alongside technical and scientific limitations, the approval process is delayed by public mistrust and a lack of unified global biosafety guidelines. This review presents the current status of plant-based vaccine development, covering types and delivery strategies, real-world case studies, regulatory and biosafety considerations, and the challenges and limitations associated with their production. It also outlines future perspectives to address existing hurdles and promote broader development and adoption of plant-based vaccines.

How to cite this: Rehman A, Ali M, Amir Z, Fatima W, Khan T, Kanwal H. Plant Based Vaccine Production Through Transient Expression
System: A Narrative Review. Life and Science. 2026; 7(1): 123-132. doi: http://doi.org/10.37185/LnS.1.1.980