Inside The Vial: Our Science

Protecting lives through innovation.

For decades, vial-based vaccines have been the backbone of global immunization, protecting millions of lives. At LunaVax, we’re advancing this foundation with next-generation platforms that are faster to produce, easier to scale, and designed for the realities of underserved communities.

These innovations aren’t just about science, they’re how we close the global vaccine equity gap and create a healthier future for all.

Next-Generation Vaccine Technologies

1. mRNA Vaccines

mRNA vaccines use a harmless genetic blueprint to teach the body how to fight viruses. Fast and adaptable, they proved their power during COVID-19. LunaVax is advancing next-generation mRNA such as saRNA for stronger, longer-lasting protection, especially in low-resource settings.

Genetic engineering and gene manipulation concept, 3d rendering,conceptual image.
mRNA strands — the digital blueprint guiding your body’s immune training.
  • Targeted Diseases: HPV, measles, malaria, polio, and rotavirus, with a focus on outbreak-prone infections in low-resource settings. Our mRNA platform is also being adapted based on its success during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Why We Use Them: Rapid development, precision targeting, and strong efficacy.

2. Viral Vector Vaccines

These vaccines use safe, modified viruses (such as adenoviruses) to deliver genetic instructions that spark immunity. They’ve already protected against Ebola and show strong promise for diseases like tuberculosis and measles, particularly in settings where traditional options fall short.

Virus abstract background
Viral vectors — harmless messengers delivering immunity instructions.
  • Targeted Diseases: Tuberculosis, malaria, measles, and other candidates for future applications.
  • Why We Use Them: Proven platforms with strong immune activation.

3. DNA-Based Vaccines

DNA vaccines insert a snippet of genetic code that helps your body recognize and stop disease. They’re heat-stable, affordable, and easy to produce locally, making them ideal for areas with limited infrastructure.

chromosomes 3d illustration
DNA helix — a resilient twist in vaccine technology.
  • Targeted Diseases: Hepatitis B, HPV, and potential applications in future emerging infections.
  • Why We Use Them: Heat-stable, scalable, and cost-effective, perfect for rural areas.

4. Protein Subunit Vaccines

These use small pieces of a virus (often proteins) to safely train your immune system. With a long track record in childhood vaccines, they’re a trusted, safe choice for children and immunocompromised people alike.

Protein ribbon structure. 3D wireframe. Ideal for protein and biology book covers and research presentation inserts.
Protein fragments — tiny pieces that pack a protective punch.
  • Targeted Diseases: Meningitis, pneumonia, and polio.
  • Why We Use Them: Safe for children and immunocompromised patients.

How We Make Them

Our mission extends beyond research. We are building a resilient ecosystem for vaccine development through:

  • Local production facilities
  • Technology transfer partnerships
  • R&D collaboration for next-gen platforms like saRNA
  • Regional supply chain development
  • Sustainable manufacturing training
  • Alignment with national immunization goals

Why It Matters for Africa

African American pediatrician vaccinating a kid during medical examination at the clinic.
Science meets impact — bringing protection closer to every child, everywhere.

  • 98.9% of Africa’s vaccines are imported, leaving over a billion people dependent on external supply. (ONE Campaign/Africa CDC)
  • Only 8 out of 54 African countries have any local vaccine manufacturing capacity. (Gavi)

 

LunaVax is changing that by tailoring technologies to fit Africa’s needs, building local resilience and empowering communities.

 

Explore Partnership Opportunities or Contact Us to shape the future of immunization.

Join the Innovation