SARS-CoV-2-derived RNA replicons as safe and effective vaccines.

ABSTRACT: A collection of RNA replicons (RRs) derived from severe acute respiratory syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2) for use in vaccine design was constructed by genetic engineering using bacterial artificial chromosomes. A replicon, which was deleted in six genes (3a, 3c, E, 6, 7a, and 7b) was selected. Cells infected with the RR vaccine candidate led to the formation of virus-like particles that, due to the failure of being secreted, increase vaccine safety, in contrast to the wild type virions. The replicon maintained the production of RNAs encoding at least proteins S, M, and N for several days. Intranasal immunization with the RR of transgenic mice, expressing human ACE2, elicited respiratory mucosal immunity. Immunization protected against challenge with SARS-CoV-2, inducing IgG, IgM, and IgA antibodie

SUBMITTER: Villarejo-Torres M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12501190 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature