New Vaccine Manufacturing Process Could
New Vaccine Manufacturing Process Could Revolutionize Pandemic Response
Researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed a
groundbreaking technology, called RNAbox, which promises to transform
the way vaccines are produced and distributed globally. The innovative process
is designed to rapidly scale up the production of messenger RNA (mRNA)
vaccines, potentially speeding up the world’s response to future pandemics.
Supported by up to £3.7 million in funding from the
Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), the RNAbox technology
aims to make vaccine production faster, more efficient, and more accessible.
The process is automated and adaptable, enabling vaccines to be manufactured at
regional sites around the world, which could help contain infectious diseases
before they reach epidemic or pandemic proportions.
Unlike traditional vaccines, mRNA vaccines can be quickly
tailored to new diseases and variants, making them a key tool in fighting
emerging infectious diseases. However, current mRNA vaccines are expensive to
produce and require complex cold-chain infrastructure, making distribution
difficult in low-resource areas. The RNAbox addresses these challenges by
creating a continuous production process that can yield up to 10 times more
vaccine, using fewer raw materials.
This innovative technology will be vital to initiatives like
CEPI’s 100 Days Mission, which seeks to accelerate vaccine development
and deployment to within 100 days of identifying a new virus. By enabling local
production, the RNAbox could play a crucial role in ensuring equitable access
to life-saving vaccines, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
The RNAbox also has the potential to be adapted for
non-pandemic diseases, expanding its use to a wide range of unmet healthcare
needs. Researchers are collaborating with vaccine manufacturers globally to
ensure the technology is effective in diverse settings.