Full Approval Granted to Self-Copying RNA Vaccine: What Lies Ahead?

The recent full regulatory approval of a self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) COVID-19 vaccine in Japan represents a significant milestone in vaccine development. This achievement, marking the first approval of its kind globally, showcases the potential of saRNA technology. 

Developed by Arcturus Therapeutics and CSL, the ARCT-154 vaccine demonstrated promising attributes in clinical testing, generating higher levels of virus-fighting antibodies and prolonged circulation compared to standard mRNA COVID-19 vaccines when used as a booster. 

The saRNA platform, pursued by researchers for over two decades, holds promise not only in combating infectious diseases like COVID-19 but also in addressing cancers. The lower required dosage suggests potential for reduced side effects, enhancing its appeal. 

Experts believe that this approval validates the field and anticipates broader applications of saRNA technology, potentially surpassing conventional mRNA in various therapeutic contexts due to its versatility.

SOURCE: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-023-03859-w 

CREDITS: NATURE JOURNALS