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Publications

Journal Article Review Ppublish

PubMed: 40186353 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2025.03.060

The advent of clinical self-amplifying RNA vaccines.

Mol Ther 33(6):2565-2582

Authors: Irafasha C Casmil, Jongwoo Jin, Eun-Jeong Won, Cynthia Huang, Suiyang Liao, Hyunjoo Cha-Molstad, Anna K Blakney

Affiliations

  • Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T1Z4, Canada; School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T1Z3, Canada.
  • Nucleic Acid Therapeutics Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Ochang 28116, Republic of Korea; Advanced Bioconvergence Department, KRIBB School, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea.
  • Nucleic Acid Therapeutics Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Ochang 28116, Republic of Korea.
  • Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T1Z4, Canada; School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T1Z3, Canada; Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T1Z3, Canada.
  • Nucleic Acid Therapeutics Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Ochang 28116, Republic of Korea; Advanced Bioconvergence Department, KRIBB School, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea.
  • Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T1Z4, Canada; School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T1Z3, Canada.

Abstract

Self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) technology is an emerging platform for vaccine development, offering significant advantages over conventional mRNA vaccines. By enabling intracellular amplification of RNA, saRNA facilitates robust antigen expression at lower doses, thereby enhancing both immunogenicity and cost-effectiveness. This review examines the latest advancements in saRNA vaccine development, highlighting its applications in combating infectious diseases. This includes viral pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and emerging zoonotic threats. We discuss the design and optimization of saRNA vectors to maximize antigen expression while minimizing adverse immune responses. Recent studies demonstrating the safety, efficacy, and scalability of saRNA-based vaccines in clinical settings are also discussed. We address challenges related to delivery systems, stability, and manufacturing, along with novel strategies being developed to mitigate these challenges. As the global demand for rapid, flexible, and scalable vaccine platforms grows, saRNA presents a promising solution with enhanced potency and durability. This review emphasizes the transformative potential of saRNA vaccines to shape the future of immunization strategies, particularly in response to pandemics and other global health threats.

MeSH

Vaccines, Genetic Therapy, Rna, Mrna Vaccines, Vaccine Development

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