Design of a bilayer mucoadhesive film for the delivery of vaccines or nucleic acid-based therapeutics

Nucleic acid-based therapies are delivered using different methods. COVID-19 vaccines are typically injected into muscles, but they pose challenges such as weak mucosal immunity. Conversely, mucosal vaccines delivered orally or intranasally offer better compliance and fewer side effects, but face problems like inconsistent absorption. Mucoadhesive films may enhance the delivery by targeting the respiratory mucosa.

Our technology

Demonstrated in animal studies, our invention presents a breakthrough in the technology for the delivery of vaccines and therapeutic nucleic acids – such as mRNA encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNP) or viruses – through buccal administration using a bilayer mucoadhesive film. The efficiency of the film has been demonstrated as a booster in heterologous vaccination.

Our film consists of two layers. The first is a mucoadhesive layer containing the active ingredient (LNP/mRNA, viral vectors, proteins), which ensures a targeted dissolution through the buccal mucosa within 30–60 minutes. The second is an impermeable layer that prevents losses in the oral cavity.

Main advantages

·       Controlled release: A combination of specific polymers also enables tailored dissolution profiles, allowing for either a rapid or a controlled release of active ingredients.

·       Targeted delivery: The mucoadhesive layer ensures that the active ingredients are delivered directly to the mucosa, contributing to a greater treatment precision and effectiveness.

·       Increased efficiency: The water-impermeable layer prevents premature dissolution in the oral cavity, ensuring a higher abrorption rate of the active ingredient into the mucosa.