So far, I have made mRNA activators that produce OX40L and 4-1BBL, and I have confirmed that these molecules are produced correctly both in cells in the lab and in mice. After vaccination with the activators (in a single-shot), I found that these molecules were mainly produced by immune cells called macrophages near the vaccine injection site. 

More importantly, I saw a higher number of the right kind of T cells—those that are more likely to become long-lasting memory cells—in mice that received the vaccine with the added activators. These types of T cells are important because they can help the body respond more quickly and effectively if it encounters the virus in the future. My early results suggest that this mRNA-based adjuvant approach may help create stronger and longer-lasting immunity with just one vaccine dose. This kind of innovation has the potential to improve how we respond to outbreaks and pandemics, especially when time and resources are limited.

In the next phase of the project, I will test how well this vaccine protects against infection in both the short term and the long term. I will also look more closely at the strength and quality of the immune response over time. My goal is to create a flexible, easy-to-use vaccine platform that could be applied to other infectious diseases in the future.