
Today the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) announced an award of $5 million funding award to Ethris, a German biotechnology firm working on next-generation RNA vaccines.
The award will help Ethris develop spray-dried RNA vaccines that remain stable at room temperature and are suitable for nasal delivery, CEPI said in a press release.
The vaccines would use spray-drying technology—the same as used in asthma inhalers—that rapidly dries liquid with hot gas to form stable powders for respiratory delivery via the nose. CEPI said the nasal administration could help to achieve mucosal immunity, a key for reducing virus transmission.
Spray-drying for RNA-based vaccines could make them more practical and accessible similar to the established standards in respiratory medicine.
"Spray-drying for RNA-based vaccines could make them more practical and accessible similar to the established standards in respiratory medicine," said Christian Plank, PhD, chief technology officer at Ethris. "With CEPI's support, we aim to demonstrate the feasibility of spray-drying for RNA formulations, enabling vaccines to remain stable at room temperature while allowing for simpler, needle-free administration. If successful, this approach has the potential to transform vaccine delivery and accessibility on a global scale."
No need for cold storage
Importantly, spray-dry vaccines would eliminate the need for cold-chain storage, a logistical problem in many low-resource countries. Both mRNA vaccines used for COVID-19 require cold storage across the supply chain.
"If successful, this method would enhance access to RNA-based vaccines by increasing their thermostability and offering an alternative for individuals with needle phobia," said Raafat Fahim, PhD, the interim executive director of manufacturing and supply chain at CEPI.