The Platform Technology
We are developing a DNA-based, state-of-the-art transdermal therapeutic vaccine platform to treat viral infections and different types of cancer.
Our APIs - disease-specific plasmid DNA constructs are formulated with a novel polymer excipient to create synthetic 'pathogen-like' particles. This formulation is essential for achieving a potent antigen expression from the plasmid DNA and antigen presentation by dendritic cells. This is critical for eliciting antigen-specific immune responses in people with chronic diseases.
The 'pathogen-like' particles—created with the help of a synthetic polymer (mannobiosylated linear polyethyleneimine, PEIm)—have the size and shape of spherical viruses that naturally evolved to deliver nucleic acids into the cells. These nanoparticles deliver the plasmid DNA into the cells similarly to viruses in a safe way as they cannot replicate.
DermaPrep - Administration
The therapeutic vaccine — the pDNA wrapped in PEIm — is administered transdermally as a suspension using a skin patch on the previously cleaned skin. This is one of the most effective ways of boosting long-lasting T-cell immunity. The use of the patch starts with a skin preparation: Using a sponge, we rub the surface of the skin until redness without causing any injury. Then the skin patch is applied, creating a pocket on the surface of the skin. In the last step, we administer the vaccine suspension using a syringe without a needle.
