UNDIRECTED MUTATED MRNA VACCINE

Smart overview of the Invention

The patent application introduces a new type of mRNA vaccine aimed at combating diseases caused by viruses, such as influenza and SARS CoV-2, as well as cancer and infections by bacteria and fungi. This vaccine works by injecting mRNA into the body, which then hijacks cellular machinery to produce antigens, stimulating an immune response. A key feature is the inclusion of undirected mutant variants of the parent mRNA, allowing the vaccine to protect against multiple variants. This poly vaccine approach targets unknown variants with random mutations.

Background

Traditional vaccines expose the body to antigens from attenuated or killed viruses, prompting an immune response. However, virus mutations can lead to antigenic drift, necessitating annual updates to vaccines like the flu shot. mRNA vaccines offer a faster, scalable alternative by using lipid-encapsulated mRNA to produce viral proteins within the body's cells. This method has shown promise in addressing infectious diseases and conditions like cancer by producing a robust immune response.

Innovative Approach

The invention leverages undirected mutations in mRNA sequences derived from known disease proteins. These mutations are not specific to any known variant, allowing for a broader immune response against closely related protein variants. The mixture of mutated mRNA molecules is injected into the body, leading to the production of various protein antigens and a comprehensive immune defense.

Mutation Techniques

Mutations are introduced through site-directed mutagenesis or other methods that alter nucleotide sequences in targeted ways. These changes can be single or multiple nucleotide modifications and are incorporated using techniques like mismatched oligonucleotide insertion or chemical synthesis. This process enables the creation of diverse mRNA sequences for vaccine development.

Applications and Benefits

The undirected mutagenesis approach allows for vaccines that adapt to new virus strains and cancer mutations without prior knowledge of their structural impacts. By including both conserved and unconserved regions in its mutation strategy, this method ensures a wide range of protein structures are targeted. This flexibility positions the technology as a promising tool for addressing evolving infectious diseases and other medical challenges.