In the quest for effective and long-lasting immunization, mRNA vaccines have revolutionized vaccine development with their rapid production and efficacy. However, the ongoing reliance on multiple booster shots, as demonstrated by COVID-19 vaccines, highlights a critical limitation: the need for enhanced durability. My SPARK project aims to tackle this challenge by developing a novel class of mRNA adjuvants that specifically target the TNF receptor pathway—an essential regulator of immune responses activated by select ligands. By enhancing the activation and differentiation of memory T cells and T follicular helper (TFH) cells, my innovative approach seeks to significantly extend the longevity of mRNA vaccines and transform our vaccination strategies.

I will explore the efficacy of these adjuvants using the Zika virus vaccine as a testing platform. My research has the potential to simplify vaccine administration and revolutionize immunization strategies across a broad spectrum of infectious diseases. A significant advantage of these mRNA boosters lies in their versatility; they are designed for use with any mRNA vaccine, addressing the critical limitation of current formulations that require multiple doses. By focusing on the TNF receptor pathway to enhance immune responses, my project could lead to groundbreaking advancements in vaccine development, enabling longer-lasting immunity with just one injection. Ultimately, this transformative approach could not only improve public health outcomes but also pave the way for more accessible and effective disease control on a global scale.