Recombinant vaccines are a type of vaccine created by using genetic engineering techniques. They involve inserting genes from a pathogen, such as a virus or bacterium, into a harmless organism, often a yeast or bacteria. This organism then produces proteins that mimic the pathogen, stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight the actual disease without causing illness. These vaccines are designed to provide immunity against specific diseases, such as hepatitis B and human papillomavirus (HPV). Recombinant vaccines are generally safer and more effective than traditional vaccines, as they can be tailored to target specific parts of the pathogen, enhancing the immune response.