How scientists used AI to create ultra-stable, freezer-free mRNA vaccines A novel AI-guided approach enabled accelerated discovery of thermostable mRNA vaccines, eliminating ultra-cold storage barriers to expand global vaccine access. Written byPriyom Bose, PhD

How scientists used AI to create ultra-stable, freezer-free mRNA vaccines A novel AI-guided approach enabled accelerated discovery of thermostable mRNA vaccines, eliminating ultra-cold storage barriers to expand global vaccine access. Written byPriyom Bose, PhD https://www.drugdiscoverynews.com/how-scientists-used-ai-to-create-ultra-stable-freezer-free-mrna-vaccines-17585 In mRNA vaccines, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) act as delivery vehicles that protect fragile mRNA so that it can safely reach target cells and trigger an immune response. While these carriers are safe and scalable, their instability in liquid form limits shelf life and requires ultra-cold storage. To improve stability, researchers have traditionally added excipients such as sugars, salts, or polymers to LNPs. Shifting to solid-state, water-free formulations extend thermostability, but previous efforts were limited by a narrow range of formulation options and slow screening processes. Now, in a new study published in Nature Biotechnology, MIT engineers applied an AI-driven optimization framework to stabilize FDA-approved LNP formulations, specifically for the Moderna (SM-102-based) and Pfizer-BioNTech (ALC-0315-based) mRNA vaccines. These formulations helped retain 100 percent bioactivity at 37 degrees Celsius for over two months — eliminating the need for ultra-cold storage completely.