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Project

mRNA Lipid nanoparticles co-loaded with alpha-Galactosylceramide as a universal influenza vaccine platform

A universal influenza vaccine that in all population groups can provide long-term protection against different influenza strains, including new “pandemic” viruses, is most needed. In this project, we propose a novel vaccine platform, termed Galsomes, that is composed of lipid nanoparticles that co-deliver glycolipid antigens and mRNA encoding viral proteins to antigen presenting cells (APCs). Previous research learned us that activating natural killer T (NKT) cells with glycolipid components strongly contribute to the effectiveness of mRNA-based vaccines. In this study, we aim to optimize the formulation of Galsomes to enable a more effective and safe delivery in APCs for which clinically advanced materials and production methods will be used. Next, we will determine the in vivo behavior of Galsomes after nasal administration, and secondly, how this results in the activation of humoral- and cellular immunity, both systemically and at the mucosa of the upper airways. Finally, we aim to investigate the potential of two possible Galsome formulations encoding different types of viral antigens to provide broad and durable immune protection against multiple influenza viruses. This way, the ultimate aim is to develop a more potent and universal mRNA-based influenza vaccine.

Date:1 Oct 2020 →  30 Sep 2022
Keywords:Influenza, Nanoparticles, mRNA-therapeutics
Disciplines:Non-clinical studies, Vaccines, Biopharmaceuticals, Gene and molecular therapy, Infectious diseases