Current and future nanoparticle vaccines for COVID-19

COVID-19 has become a major cause of global mortality and driven massive health and economic disruptions. Mass global vaccination offers the most efficient pathway towards ending the pandemic. The development and deployment of first-generation COVID-19 vaccines, encompassing mRNA or viral vectors, has proceeded at a phenomenal pace. Going forward, nanoparticle-based vaccines which deliver SARS-CoV-2 antigens will play an increasing role in extending or improving vaccination outcomes against COVID-19. At present, over 26 nanoparticle vaccine candidates have advanced into clinical testing, with similar to 60 more in pre-clinical development. Here, we discuss the emerging promise of nanotechnology in vaccine design and manufacturing to combat SARS-CoV-2, and highlight opportunities and challenges presented by these novel vaccine platforms. (C) 2021 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Automated summary

COVID-19 has caused massive health and economic disruptions globally, and mass vaccination is the most efficient way to end the pandemic. Nanoparticle-based vaccines are becoming increasingly important in extending or improving vaccination outcomes against COVID-19, with over 26 candidates in clinical testing and around 60 more in pre-clinical development. The emerging promise of nanotechnology in vaccine design and manufacturing to combat SARS-CoV-2 presents both opportunities and challenges.