Freund's adjuvant

Freund's adjuvant is a solution of mineral oil and emulsifier, often supplemented with killed Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. It is named after Jules T. Freund, who developed the substance in 1942. Freund's adjuvant is used in vaccine production to enhance the immune response and increase the effectiveness of the vaccine.

History

Freund's adjuvant was developed by Jules T. Freund in 1942. Freund was a Hungarian-born American immunologist who made significant contributions to the field of immunology and vaccine development.

Composition

Freund's adjuvant is composed of mineral oil and an emulsifier, often supplemented with killed Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. The mineral oil component helps to slow the release of the antigen, prolonging the immune response. The emulsifier helps to create a stable emulsion of the oil and water-based components of the vaccine. The addition of killed Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria helps to further stimulate the immune response.

Use in Vaccine Production

Freund's adjuvant is used in vaccine production to enhance the immune response to the antigen. By slowing the release of the antigen and stimulating a stronger immune response, Freund's adjuvant increases the effectiveness of the vaccine.

Safety and Side Effects

While Freund's adjuvant is effective at enhancing the immune response, it can also cause side effects. These can include inflammation at the injection site, fever, and lymph node enlargement. Because of these side effects, Freund's adjuvant is not typically used in human vaccines.

See Also

• Adjuvant
• Vaccine
• Immunology
• Jules T. Freund