Vaccine and Clinical Trials

The COVID-19 vaccine's next-generation RNA platforms and mRNA

 A respiratory disease that spreads easily, COVID-19 is brought on by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.7 million+ deaths and over 770 million confirmed cases globally (as of 2025).Worldwide disturbances in the fields of education, the economy, society, and mental health. Hastened the development of telemedicine, vaccination platforms, and digital healthcare. The quickest vaccine development in history, utilizing both conventional and next-generation technology, was spurred by COVID-19. Training the immune system to identify and combat SARS-CoV-2, especially its spike (S) protein, is the primary objective of all vaccinations.The COVID-19 vaccines still mostly use conventional mRNA, with advancements such as superior lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) for improved durability and delivery.Currently utilized in boosters such as Arcturus's.ARCT-154, self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) multiplies within cells to increase antigen expression at lower doses.Although still in its infancy, circular RNA (circRNA) offers additional stability and sustained protein synthesis.

mRNA Vaccines

mRNA vaccines, developed by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, use messenger RNA to train the immune system by producing a harmless spike protein from viruses like SARS-CoV-2. This method is safe and efficient, preparing the immune system for future exposure. mRNA vaccines have significantly impacted the COVID-19 pandemic and are being researched for other diseases.

Viral Vector Vaccines

Viral vector vaccines use a harmless virus to introduce a gene encoding a spike protein of a target virus into human cells. This genetic instruction triggers the immune system to recognize and fight the virus. Examples include Oxford-AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, and Sputnik V, used during COVID-19.

Inactivated Virus Vaccines

 Inactivated virus vaccines are non-infectious whole viruses killed or inactivated through heat or chemical treatment. They still carry viral components, allowing the immune system to recognize and respond. Examples include COVID-19 vaccines like Covaxin, CoronaVac, and BBIBP-CorV, used in global immunization programs.

Protein Subunit Vaccines

Protein subunit vaccines use purified virus fragments, like the spike protein or a fragment, to stimulate an immune response. These vaccines are highly targeted and safe, focusing the immune system on recognizing and neutralizing specific parts of the virus. Key examples include Novavax and Anhui Zhifei.

DNA Vaccines (Emerging Tech)

DNA vaccines use plasmids containing genetic instructions to produce a spike protein for viruses like SARS-CoV-2. These stable, needle-free, and non-live virus vaccines stimulate the immune system to fight future infections. The world's first DNA vaccine, ZyCoV-D, is an example of this innovative technology.