SARS-CoV-2 self-amplifying messenger RNA lipid nanoparticle vaccine

SARS-CoV-2 self-amplifying messenger RNA (saRNA) lipid nanoparticle (LNP) vaccines represent an advanced generation of nucleic acid therapeutics. Unlike conventional mRNA vaccines, saRNA constructs incorporate genes encoding a viral replicase (typically derived from alphaviruses like Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis Virus) alongside the target antigen, in this case, the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Upon delivery into the host cell via LNPs, the replicase facilitates the intracellular replication of the mRNA, leading to significantly higher and more prolonged levels of antigen expression. This amplification allows for effective immunization at substantially lower doses than standard mRNA vaccines, potentially reducing side effects and manufacturing requirements. The most prominent candidate in this class, ARCT-154 (developed by Arcturus Therapeutics and CSL), was the first saRNA vaccine to receive regulatory approval, specifically in Japan for COVID-19 booster immunization.

Other names

saRNA COVID-19 vaccineself-amplifying mRNA COVID-19 vaccineSARS-CoV-2 saRNA-LNP vaccineSARS-CoV2 saRNA-LNP vaccineSARS-CoV 2 saRNA-LNP vaccine