The Viral Vectors and Vaccines Bioprocessing group led by Professor Kamen investigates how biomanufacturing processes for vaccines and genetic medicines can be accelerated through a detailed understanding of cell–virus interactions, cellular metabolic states, reaction conditions and product quality attributes. This knowledge supports the development of robust, scalable, and cost-effective production platforms for safe and potent therapeutics.
In addition to viral vectors, our research program has expanded to include mRNA-based technologies. We focus on end-to-end process optimization, from plasmid DNA production and in vitro transcription to mRNA encapsulation, formulation, stability, and analytical quality control. By integrating process development with advanced analytics, our team is building capacity in mRNA vaccines and gene therapies and supporting the translation of these technologies toward clinical and commercial applications with our international partners.
Our work aims to contribute to the development and commercialization of next-generation vaccines and immunotherapies that will significantly improve human health.
RNA Therapeutics
Quality control and analytics
We are supporting the development of a new platform at McGill University that aims to measure key mRNA quality attributes across the entire manufacturing process, from intermediate process steps to final product release, using a single sequencing-based analytical method.
The objective of this project is to establish and implement standard analytical methods in accordance with current regulatory guidelines. These methods will serve as benchmarks for method comparison, validation, and performance assessment of the new sequencing approach. By implementing conventional quality control assays and analytics, we aim to enable comprehensive, process-wide monitoring of mRNA quality and subsequently support the development of a robust and complete mRNA sequencing platform.
Plasmid DNA production
We are addressing the space and time limitations of conventional plasmid DNA (pDNA) production used in mRNA manufacturing. We aim to transition from traditional E. coli fermentation-based processes to a scalable, cell-free enzymatic workflow for template DNA production that is compatible with cGMP manufacturing requirements, focusing on improving DNA yield.
RNA intensification
We are working on intensifying in vitro transcription (IVT) processes for RNA manufacturing to improve productivity, scalability, and resource efficiency. The work includes optimization of IVT reaction conditions, as well as the evaluation of alternative modes of production beyond conventional batch processing, such as fed-batch and continuous IVT strategies to increase space–time yield and enable more flexible manufacturing operations.
In parallel, we are exploring reagent recycling approaches to reduce material consumption and overall production costs. Moreover, process analytical technologies (PATs) are being implemented to enable real-time monitoring and control of critical process parameters.
RNA formulation
This project focuses on the formulation of RNA therapeutics, with an emphasis on lipid nanoparticle (LNP) systems. The work aims to evaluate and optimize RNA–LNP formulations to improve product stability and performance across storage and handling conditions.
Protein production
This project explores cell-free protein production as a rapid, simple, scalable, and high-throughput approach for the manufacturing of enzymes required in RNA production workflows. The objective is to facilitate the supply chain of key enzymes that support multiple stages of RNA manufacturing, including plasmid DNA production and in vitro transcription.
Viral Vector-Based Therapeutics
Viral vaccines manufacturing & viral vectors for gene delivery
Adenoviral, adeno-associated, baculovirus, and lentiviral vectors are representative of a broad range of viral structures, morphologies and functions; as such, they represent different engineering and manufacturing challenges. By solving key scientific and engineering questions at different scales, a multi-dimensional bioengineering approach will lead to the development of fully integrated processes for viral vector productions.
Cell culture engineering
We maintain a strategic focus on cell culture in suspension and serum free medium using HEK-293 and insect cell-baculovirus systems as hosts for the expression of recombinant proteins and viral vectors.
Bioprocess Optimization and Scale-up
We have designed and developed advanced animal cell culture bioprocesses, which have been successfully transferred to Canadian and international industrial and non-profit organizations. We also work on the development of novel designs for soft and hard probes for real-time on-line monitoring of changes in animal cell physiological states during bioreactor culture operations.
