Self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) vaccines offer the potential to reduce administered dose while maintaining robust antigen expression and immunogenicity. While many contemporary saRNA vaccine platforms are derived from alphavirus replicons, substantial foundational work was previously undertaken using flavivirus-based systems, including Kunjin virus replicons.
Historically, Kunjin-based saRNA platforms have been explored in a range of formats, including virus-like particle delivery and DNA-launched replicon approaches. In this work, we revisit and modernise the Kunjin replicon platform by incorporating technologies that have become central to current RNA vaccine development. These include co-transcriptional RNA capping strategies and lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based delivery systems to improve the translational relevance of flavivirus-derived saRNA vaccines.
This presentation will provide an overview of the development of an updated Kunjin saRNA platform and discuss its potential as an alternative self-amplifying RNA technology for vaccine applications. Preliminary findings will highlight key considerations for adapting historical flavivirus replicons to contemporary RNA manufacturing and delivery approaches.