NORTH READING, Mass. — Biotechnology company Aphios Corporation has received a Notice of Allowance from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for its novel mRNA COVID-19 vaccine platform, which promises a major leap forward in vaccine accessibility and distribution. The patent, titled “Room Temperature-Stable, Single-Shot mRNA Vaccine for COVID-19,” covers a breakthrough approach that could overcome several key limitations of existing mRNA vaccine technologies.
Unlike current mRNA vaccines, which require ultra-cold storage and multiple doses, Aphios’ vaccine is designed to be stable at room or refrigerator temperatures and administered in a single shot. This innovation eliminates the need for complex cold chain logistics and reduces the burden of multiple vaccine appointments, making the vaccine far more suitable for deployment in resource-limited settings.
The vaccine uses a proprietary double nanoencapsulation system that embeds mRNA encoding the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein into lipid nanoparticles or phospholipid nanosomes. These are then coated with biodegradable polymer nanospheres using Aphios’ environmentally friendly SuperFluids™ technology. The result is a formulation capable of sustained mRNA release without requiring polyethylene glycol (PEG), which has been linked to allergic reactions in some recipients of existing vaccines.
“This patent marks a major step forward in Aphios’ mission to make vaccines more accessible, practical, and safer for people worldwide,” said Dr. Trevor P. Castor, Founder and CEO of Aphios. “By eliminating cold chain barriers and reducing the need for boosters, we’re positioning this technology to serve not only in the fight against COVID-19 but also in preparation for future pandemics.”
Beyond COVID-19, Aphios believes the technology could be adapted for use against other viral infectious diseases, especially in areas lacking sophisticated healthcare infrastructure. The company’s solvent-free, continuous-flow manufacturing process further enhances the technology’s safety, sustainability, and scalability.
With patent approval secured, Aphios is now preparing for the next stages of development, including clinical trials, regulatory engagement, and potential partnerships to support global distribution.
