Background

A microRNA-based platform that generates live attenuated viruses could lead to safe and effective vaccines across species. Up until now it has been challenging to produce microRNA targeted influenza virus vaccines that are simultaneously attenuated in both mammalian and avian species.

Technology Overview

Since this technology is based on universally expressed microRNAs, it allows live attenuated vaccines to be used in domestic poultry and mitigates any previous safety concerns for humans. Previous attempts to generate live attenuated vaccines targeted by microRNAs used microRNAs naturally absent in production systems but present in the desired vaccinated population. By using cell lines deficient in universally expressed microRNAs, this unique method creates microRNA attenuated vaccines safe for use in both mammalian as well