Molly Stevens - Next-Generation mRNA Vaccines: Safer Delivery with Biodegradable Polymers

This project focuses on advancing mRNA vaccine delivery by exploring biodegradable polymers as an alternative to traditional lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). While LNPs, used in vaccines like Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna, are effective for delivering mRNA into cells, their full immune impact is not yet well understood, potentially leading to adverse effects. Biodegradable polymers, on the other hand, offer greater safety and efficiency due to their ability to be easily cleared from the body and their customizable properties for improved delivery. The project aims to develop lipid-like polymeric nanoparticles (lipidoids) that combine the benefits of both polymer and lipid systems. By synthesizing and testing a wide range of nanoparticle formulations, the goal is to identify new polylipidoid particles that outperform current LNP technology in delivering mRNA to the immune cells in the skin. Success in this research could lead to the development of more effective and safer vaccines, offering better immune responses with fewer side effects. The findings will be important for combating infectious diseases and enhancing the future of vaccine technology.