Vaxess Technologies Awarded NSF and DARPA Funding for Development of mRNA-Based Single-Dose, Refrigeration-Free Vaccine Patch

Vaxess Technologies Awarded NSF and DARPA Funding for Development of mRNA-Based Single-Dose, Refrigeration-Free Vaccine Patch
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Funding will advance development of single-dose mRNA vaccines and other medical countermeasures able to bypass the cold-chain in a painless patch format

CAMBRIDGE, Mass.: Vaxess Technologies, Inc., an innovative biotechnology company developing the MIMIX™ smart release patch, was awarded a grant from the National Science Foundation and a subcontract from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), a branch of the US Department of Defense, to advance two separate projects aimed at developing mRNA-based vaccines and other medical countermeasures with the following features:

  • Refrigeration-free, using the patented Silk Protein Matrix stabilization technology
  • Single dose administration, enabled by MIMIX™ sustained release formulation
  • Painless application via MIMIX™ skin patch

Total funding awarded will be up to $2,000,000 if all milestones are achieved, including a $256,000 phase I SBIR grant from the NSF. Vaxess will use the funding to integrate mRNA-based vaccines and gene modulators provided through a collaboration with the Santangelo Lab at Georgia Tech into MIMIX™ patches to improve the efficacy and administration of novel mRNA-based vaccines and other medical countermeasures.

The MIMIX™ platform patch technology provides a solution to challenges related to global vaccine distribution and delivery. The painless patch, which utilizes a patented sustained release technology, is shelf-stable, enables dramatic enhancements in protection, and can be self-applied, allowing greater ease in distribution and administration. Thanks to the Silk Protein Matrix patented technology, the product will not require ultra-cold chain logistics, a critical attribute for timely distribution in times of pandemic outbreaks.

The patch is also compatible with a wide range of COVID-19 vaccine candidates, as demonstrated by Vaxess’ work towards a combination seasonal protection patch that includes both a COVID-19 vaccine and a broadly protective seasonal flu vaccine.

“Funding from the NSF and DARPA represent a renewed commitment from the Federal Government to support the development of novel vaccines to combat the current pandemic and future threats,” said Vaxess co-founder Livio Valenti. “Vaxess will continue to be a source of innovation to address some of the most pressing challenges we are facing today and in the years to come.”