Scientists from Swiss biotechnology company Cytos have created a vaccine that lowers blood pressure by binding to the blood-pressure-raising molecule angiotensin II.

The vaccine is made up of virus-shaped particles covered with small receptors designed to bind with angiotensin II. When released into the bloodstream, these virus particles attract and lock onto the molecule. In response, the immune system recognizes the virus as a foreign body. Antibodies attack the virus-bound angiotensin II, preventing it from constricting blood vessels and raising blood pressure.

The vaccine could one day eliminate the need for daily medication, since the vaccine may need to be injected just two or three times a year.