Researchers at the Vancouver Prostate Centre have developed Gemini, a novel self-amplifying nucleic acid platform designed to address key limitations of current mRNA technologies. The research, led by Professor Wilfred A. Jefferies, was recently published in Nature Communications.
Gemini is a binary self-amplifying expression system that can function as either self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) or self-amplifying DNA (saDNA). In both formats, the platform enables sustained intracellular protein expression. Unlike conventional mRNA vaccines, which typically require lipid nanoparticle encapsulation and ultra-cold storage, Gemini can function without lipid nanoparticles and remains stable under standard refrigeration conditions.
In preclinical studies, the Gemini platform demonstrated several important advantages, including simplified manufacturing, improved stability, and prolonged protein expression following a single administration. The platform withstood multiple freeze–thaw cycles and can be freeze-dried into powder form, supporting room-temperature storage and improved global distribution. Sustained immune responses lasting several months were observed in animal models, compared to much shorter durations for conventional mRNA approaches.
Gemini also supports substantially larger genetic payloads than standard mRNA technologies, enabling the delivery of complex multi-antigen vaccines and advanced gene-based therapeutics. Safety assessments showed no observable toxicity in preclinical models.
While initially evaluated in infectious disease models, including SARS-CoV-2 challenge studies, the platform shows promise across multiple areas of medicine. Potential applications include cancer immunotherapy, as well as treatments for genetic disorders that require larger therapeutic payloads.
By reducing reliance on complex cold-chain logistics and specialized manufacturing infrastructure, Gemini may help address barriers to vaccine and nanomedicine access in resource-limited settings and improve preparedness for future pandemics.
This research was supported by The Sullivan Urology Foundation.
The VPC-led research team is now advancing the Gemini platform toward clinical development for infectious disease applications and exploring its potential in cancer immunotherapy, with particular relevance to prostate and bladder cancers.
Publication : “A binary self-amplifying expression platform enabling lipid nanoparticle-free vaccines and nanomedicines,” Nature Communications, December 2025.
