Thomas Fechner and Goetz Frommer discussed Agilent Technologies' solutions for nucleic acid vaccine development and production. Thomas, with over 30 years of experience in analytical chemistry, focused on the business development in the pharmaceutical sector at Agilent Technologies. Goetz, who had been with Agilent since its inception from Hewlett Packard, highlighted the company's historical and current contributions to molecular biology and genetic regulation.
The presentation began with an overview of the RNA vaccine development workflow, emphasising the importance of quality control (QC) steps from nucleic acid isolation to the final product. RNA synthesis, which started in 1961, saw significant advancements in 2005 with nucleoside modifications that reduced immunogenicity. This led to cancer therapy trials by BioNTech and Moderna around 2010 and the FDA approval of RNA vaccines in 2021.
Goetz detailed the use of Agilent’s Fragment Analyzer, a capillary electrophoresis-based instrument, in various QC steps for RNA and DNA analysis. This instrument was crucial for ensuring RNA integrity and purity throughout the development process. He also discussed the role of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) in vaccine delivery, explaining how cationic lipids, helper lipids, cholesterol, and PEG lipids encapsulate RNA to enable safe and effective delivery.
Thomas then elaborated on the LC-based lipid analysis using Agilent's 1290 Infinity II Bio LC system with evaporative light scattering detection (ELSD). This system quantified LNP building blocks, supporting method development and QC with high resolution and linearity. He also mentioned the use of size exclusion chromatography coupled with dual angle light scattering for monitoring downstream vaccine product quality.
The presentation concluded with an overview of Agilent's comprehensive column portfolio, including reversed phase, anion exchange, HILIC, and bioinert columns, available in both analytical and preparative scales. These columns supported all stages of vaccine research and development, ensuring high resolution and reproducibility.
Overall, the presentation highlighted Agilent Technologies' expertise and innovative solutions in the field of nucleic acid vaccine development, showcasing their commitment to advancing molecular biology and improving public health.
