mRNA-based expression of therapeutic proteins and antibodies in the lung targeting bacterial and viral pathogens
Abstract
DARPA, in its ADEPT-PROTECT program, was investigating the use of DNA plasmids, AAV, mRNA, modified mRNA, and other genetic methods to express therapeutic antibodies in vivo, predominately focusing on skeletal muscle as the source of these antibodies. Genetic methods though can be used to express other proteins, in addition to antibodies, as a part of protein replacement, vaccine or therapeutic strategies. mRNA-based methods offer the advantages of increased safety due their lack of integration, avoidance of innate immunity through chemical modifications and delivery control, and because their protein expression kinetics can be controlled through delivery and likely through sequence design. Given these advantages and our innovative tools for characterizing delivered mRNA in vitro and in vivo, we are proposing to express multiple therapeutic proteins and antibodies via exogenous mRNA within the lung as a means of prophylaxis and therapy against bacterial and viral infections. The project is significant because it not only will allow us to assess and optimize mRNA-based therapies for the lung, but it will also demonstrate the ability to control the pathogenesis of critically important infections. Overall if successful, this project opens the door to a suite of genetic methods for combating both viral and bacterial pathogens.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 06, 2019
- Source ID
- W911NF1510609
Entities
People
- Philip J Santangelo
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Georgia Tech Research Corporation
- Office of the Secretary of Defense