"Science Times" on nicotine vaccine in development

Yesterday's "Science Times" section of the New York Times featured a noteworthy story on research underway to develop what's being dubbed a 'vaccine against smoking.' The story, "Scientists testing vaccines to help smokers quit," looks at a nicotine vaccine (NicVAX) being developed by Nabi Biopharmaceuticals. It's the latest example of how the definition of 'vaccine' is being expanded to include a host of new directions and new targets for preventive medical interventions.

The Times story and the information available on Nabi's website (including this FAQ) explain how the vaccine is thought to work. Here's the one-paragraph summary: The vaccine will produce antibodies specific to nicotine molecules -- nicotine being the primary contributor to the pleasurable and addictive nature of smoking. In order to have these effects, nicotine must reach the brain. It is thought that the antibodies generated by the vaccine will bind to nicotine molecules inhaled by smokers. This antibody/nicotine complex will be too large to enter the brain, so that nicotine would be unable to have its usual effects. As a result, those attempting to quit smoking would be able to do so more easily, as they'd lack the typical response from smoking that makes it difficult to quit.

As with most stories previewing 'the next big thing', the availability of NicVAX is years away, and much research is needed between now and then. But it's an intriguing product and an interesting strategy, one sure to be applied to the gamut of other addictive substances if successful.