US20250121221
2025-04-17
Human necessities
A61P31/14
The patent application discusses innovative ribonucleic acid (RNA) vaccines aimed at combating respiratory viruses. These vaccines, specifically formulated with messenger RNA (mRNA), are designed to induce a balanced immune response against a range of viruses including human metapneumovirus (hMPV), parainfluenza virus (PIV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), measles virus (MeV), and various betacoronaviruses such as MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV. The mRNA vaccines are encapsulated within lipid nanoparticles to enhance delivery and effectiveness.
Respiratory diseases significantly impact global health, ranging from mild conditions like the common cold to severe illnesses such as pneumonia and lung cancer. Viruses such as hMPV, PIV, RSV, and MeV are major contributors to respiratory tract infections, particularly in young children. Despite ongoing research efforts, there are currently no approved vaccines for several of these viruses. The emergence of betacoronaviruses like MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV has further highlighted the urgent need for effective vaccines.
The proposed RNA vaccines leverage mRNA technology to direct the body's cells to produce specific proteins that trigger an immune response without the risk of insertional mutagenesis associated with DNA vaccines. These vaccines aim to offer both cellular and humoral immunity, surpassing traditional antiviral treatments by generating higher antibody titers more rapidly. The use of mRNA allows for more accurate protein expression, aligning closely with natural cellular processes.
The RNA vaccines are formulated in cationic lipid nanoparticles, which facilitate the delivery of the mRNA into cells. This formulation enhances the stability and uptake of the vaccine components, improving their efficacy. Notably, the addition of a flagellin adjuvant, an mRNA encoding bacterial flagellin protein, has been shown to significantly boost the vaccine's effectiveness by enhancing the immune response.
The RNA vaccines have broad potential applications in preventing and treating infections caused by various genotypes, strains, and isolates of respiratory viruses. They represent a promising advancement in vaccine technology, offering a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional vaccine methods. The flexibility of mRNA technology allows for rapid adaptation to emerging viral threats, making it a crucial tool in addressing current and future public health challenges.