Doctoral Student St. Johns University Fresh Meadows, New York
Coronavirus disease 2019 still lingers worldwide due to the constant mutations of the virus, requiring frequent vaccination. Currently marketed vaccines are administered intramuscularly, require cold-chain for storage and distribution, and only generate protective immunity. There is a need to develop a vaccine delivery system that can be self-administered, is thermostable, and offers sterilizing immunity. In this presentation, we will discuss a potential strategy to address the above-mentioned challenges wherein we will develop a dry powder liposomal protein vaccine using spray drying. We will also discuss the various steps involved in liposomal optimization, spike-protein conjugation, adjuvant loading, and spray drying. In addition, various characterization studies that were conducted will be discussed. Data regarding all the different experiments will be discussed in detail. Overall, we were able to develop liposomes of ~160nm in size, with >70% protein conjugation, and the spray-dried powders maintained antigen stability and integrity, and displayed suitability for inhalation.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion, the participant will be able to learn the various steps involved in the development of inhalable liposomes for a dry powder protein vaccine against COVID-19.
Upon completion, the participant will be able to learn the various techniques involved in the characterization of inhalable liposomes for a dry powder protein vaccine against COVID-19.
Upon completion, the participant will be able to understand the need for inhalable and thermostable vaccines.
