mRNA-LNP vaccines currently require ultra-cold storage (-80 °C), creating high costs and logistical challenges for manufacturers and distributors. This dependency on cold chain infrastructure limits global access and increases waste risk. Industry needs stabilization technologies that maintain potency at refrigerated or ambient conditions to reduce cold chain reliance, lower costs, and enable broader market reach.
CU Boulder explored two innovative stabilization approaches:
Spray-dried mRNA-LNP formulations maintained ~90% intact mRNA and stable lipid profiles for 90 days at up to 30 °C, while ALD-coated samples showed stability over time. These findings suggest potential cold-chain cost savings and improved long-term storage options.
Developed and optimized spray-dried and ALD-coated mRNA-LNP formulations.
Prepared and shipped stabilized samples to KU VAFC for centralized stability testing.
Generated comparative data on mRNA integrity, encapsulation efficiency, lipid integrity, particle size, and turbidity.
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