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Madison Davis

Davis PDDL24 Headshot
Predoctoral Fellowship in Drug Delivery, 2024 University of Texas at Austin

A Needle-Free Alternative for Vaccine Delivery

Summary

Nearly all recommended vaccines in the United States are administered via injection. This is an invasive and painful route of administration that requires medically trained personnel. My project aims to develop and evaluate the utility of a novel vaccine platform that works through the mouth’s lining, known as the oral mucosa. Our lab developed a thin, pliable film that stabilizes viruses and other biologics for extended periods of time without refrigeration. Applying the film to the inside of the cheek or under the tongue offers a simple and effective vaccine platform. To assess the performance of the film-based vaccine, I will develop an in vitro model by growing cells in a lab-controlled environment to mimic the oral mucosa. I will use this model to identify the optimal formulation (combination of ingredients) for the film and monitor immune responses in real time. My project also seeks to enhance our film’s formulation by incorporating an adjuvant, a substance that can help promote a strong and lasting response to the vaccine. Overall, I strive to showcase the oral mucosa as a robust yet underutilized target for vaccine delivery and highlight the utility of a film-based vaccine.

Watch a Q&A with Madison

I am incredibly honored to receive a predoctoral fellowship in Drug Delivery from the PhRMA Foundation. The Foundation’s support and belief in my project continue to motivate my pursuit of innovative approaches to drug delivery.

Madison Davis

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