The Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine is scientifically known as JNJ-78436735 or Ad26.COV2.S.
Understanding the Johnson & Johnson Vaccine
While commonly referred to as the "Johnson & Johnson vaccine" or sometimes the "Janssen vaccine" (Janssen is the pharmaceutical company owned by Johnson & Johnson), its specific research and development designations are JNJ-78436735 and Ad26.COV2.S. These identifiers reflect its unique composition and mechanism of action as an adenovirus-vectored vaccine.
How the Johnson & Johnson Vaccine Works
The Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine is an adenovirus vector vaccine. This means it uses a modified version of a common cold virus (adenovirus type 26) to deliver genetic instructions to human cells. Key aspects of its function include:
- Vector System: It employs an adenovirus type 26 that has been modified. This adenovirus acts as a delivery vehicle.
- Genetic Material: The modified adenovirus carries the genetic code to produce the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein. This is the protein found on the surface of the coronavirus that helps it infect cells.
- Immune Response: When the vaccine enters a cell, it uses the cell's machinery to produce the Spike protein. The presence of this protein then triggers the body's immune system to recognize and develop a defense against the actual SARS-CoV-2 virus, should it encounter it later.
- Safety Profile: Importantly, the adenovirus used in the vaccine cannot replicate inside the body's cells, meaning it cannot cause illness.
- Administration: It is typically administered as a single intramuscular injection, which differentiated it from many other COVID-19 vaccines that initially required two doses.
Key Features of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 Vaccine
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Scientific Names | JNJ-78436735, Ad26.COV2.S |
| Vaccine Type | Adenovirus vector vaccine |
| Target | SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein |
| Administration | Single intramuscular injection |
| Replication | Non-replicating (cannot cause illness) |
Scientific Designations and Development
The designations like JNJ-78436735 represent the internal research and development codes used by Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) for this specific vaccine candidate. Ad26.COV2.S further breaks down its composition: 'Ad26' refers to the specific adenovirus serotype used (adenovirus type 26), and 'COV2.S' indicates that it carries the genetic information for the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein. These names are crucial for scientific tracking, clinical trials, and regulatory approvals, reflecting the precise nature of its biotechnological design.
