Xinyi Tu
Single-Stranded RNA Origami as a Potent Cancer Vaccine Platform
Abstract
This project aims to develop a novel nanovaccine platform using single-stranded RNA nanostructure (ssRNA-OG) to enhance cancer immunotherapy. By leveraging the controlled release of antigen peptides through a cleavable dipeptide linker (Valine-Citrulline), this approach seeks to improve antigen presentation efficiency by both MHC-I and MHC-II molecules, thereby inducing stronger and more durable immune responses. The nanovaccine platform also allows for the customization of antigen-to-adjuvant ratios and the assembly of multiple antigen epitopes, potentially leading to highly effective and personalized cancer vaccines. If successful, this research could significantly advance the effectiveness of cancer vaccines, particularly for patients who do not respond to existing treatments.
The PhRMA Foundation award is an incredible honor, providing vital support to advance my research and lay a strong foundation for my career in scientific discovery.
