Sean Sullivan delivered a comprehensive overview of his company’s advancements in lipid nanoparticle (LNP) technology, focusing on both vaccine and therapeutic applications. Sullivan began by outlining the company’s dual focus: the development of self-amplifying RNA for vaccines and therapeutic formulations for systemic and aerosol delivery. The company’s COVID vaccine, Kostaive, has received approval in Japan and the EMA, with active clinical trials underway across five continents. Headquartered in San Diego and founded in 2013, the organisation also maintains a therapeutic division targeting conditions such as ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency and cystic fibrosis, utilising both systemic and aerosolised delivery methods.
Sullivan emphasised the versatility of their RNA technology, which serves as both a protein replacement for therapeutics and as an antigen expression platform for vaccines. The delivery systems are tailored for various cell types, including myocytes, hepatocytes, and bronchial epithelial cells, ensuring targeted and effective administration. The company’s manufacturing expertise was highlighted as a critical factor in producing high-quality RNA and LNPs, with validated processes supporting commercial-scale production.
A significant portion of the presentation was dedicated to the proprietary ATX lipid library, which comprises over 300 analogues across 12 families. These lipids are engineered for optimal potency and tolerability, with screening processes involving both mouse models and non-human primates to ensure robust preclinical data. Sullivan noted that mice tend to overpredict efficacy, while non-human primates provide a more conservative estimate, making both models essential for accurate assessment.
The LUNAR platform’s screening process was described in detail, illustrating how lipid families are synthesised, formulated, and tested for critical quality attributes before advancing to animal studies. The company’s COVID vaccine was shown to produce higher antibody titres and longer-lasting protection compared to established alternatives, with a single 5 microgram dose conferring immunity for up to a year. This efficiency reduces the need for frequent vaccination and demonstrates the potential of self-amplifying RNA technology.
Ongoing work includes the optimisation of RNA sequences and lipid chemistry, as well as the refinement of manufacturing processes to ensure scalability and consistency. Sullivan concluded by reaffirming the company’s commitment to innovation, robust clinical validation, and global manufacturing partnerships, positioning their LNP technology at the forefront of RNA-based therapeutics and vaccines.
