An oral vaccine contain liposomes and complexed or, preferably entrapped, DNA
operatively encoding an antigen in which the liposomes are formed from components
including cationic compounds and zwitterionic phospholipids. The hydrophobic groups
within the liposome forming components must include at least one group which is
saturated. This is believed to raise the transition temperature, rendering the
liposomes more stable when delivered orally. The compositions have been found to
give detectable increased in IgA levels, secreted immunoglobulins of importance
in efficacious oral vaccine delivery.