Edible Plant-Based Vaccine TOMAVAC Shows Promising Defense Against COVID-19

Scientists from Uzbekistan have unveiled a novel antiviral vaccine derived from a tomato plant and genetic vectors to fight against COVID-19. The innovative vaccine, named TOMAVAC, is distinct in that it can be consumed directly from the tomato plant.

Scientists created a transgenic tomato, TOMAVAC, which produces a key protein of the virus. Feeding mice with TOMAVAC resulted in a significant increase in virus-fighting antibodies in their blood and intestines. These antibodies showed 15-25% neutralizing activity against the virus. Initial trials in humans also demonstrated a steady increase in antibodies without severe side effects, suggesting TOMAVAC's safety and potential effectiveness. Read the study here.