PLGA-wrapped vaccine stops staph mastitis in mice

Mastitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus is a major problem for dairy operations. The germs are becoming resistant to antibiotics, and current vaccines do not give strong protection.

Researchers created a new vaccine by loading recombinant staphylococcal enterotoxin C into tiny poly(lactide‑co‑glycolide) particles. This tiny carrier helps the immune system see the protein better.

Mice that received the PLGA‑wrapped vaccine showed much higher antibody levels in their blood. After being exposed to the bacteria, they carried far fewer germs in their mammary glands – about three log units less than the standard vaccine. Inflammation markers dropped, and the tissue stayed healthy with little cell damage.

These results suggest the PLGA‑encapsulated vaccine could become a better tool for preventing staph mastitis in cows, offering stronger protection than older formulations.