MIT vaccine formulation remains stable for a year at room temperature in tests

MIT researchers developed a formulation for RNA vaccines that remained stable for a year at room temperature, or two months at 37 degrees Celsius, in laboratory tests. An algorithm helped them select and combine additives for the lipid particles that protect RNA and carry it into cells. After storage, experimental Covid-19 vaccines using the formulation produced immune responses in mice comparable to vaccines carried by particles similar to Moderna's original formulation. The team also made dissolving microneedle patches that produced a similar response in mice. The findings concern experimental formulations and animal tests, rather than human vaccine storage.