Studies demonstrated that conjugation of cocaine analogs to adenoviral protein particles resulted in the successful induction of an immune response that was able to successfully sequester the cocaine in the bloodstream, preventing it from affecting the brain. Similar approaches are underway to develop anti-nicotine and anti-alcohol vaccines.
Several groups are investigating whether such technology will be successful at treating other addictions including nicotine, heroin, and alcohol. The underlying theory is that adenoviral particles that are no longer infectious will be able to elicit an immune response and that by attaching nicotine, cocaine or other addictive drug to these particles will create a specific antibody response. Initial studies show that a significant and specific response is achievable (Hicks et al, Molecular Therapeutics 2011; Polosa et al, Trends in Pharmacological Sciences 2011). Clinical trials to test some of these vaccines are currently underway.
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