SHINE-Vax · Smart Hydrogel Microneedle Patches for mRNA Nanoparticle Vaccination

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the transformative potential of mRNA vaccines, yet their delivery remains confined to intramuscular injections, which cause discomfort, reduce compliance, and rely on cold-chain logistics. Microneedle patches offer a minimally invasive alternative, but current systems mainly provide single-burst, fixed-dose release, limiting safety and efficacy. This project, SHINE-Vax, develops a temperature-responsive hydrogel microneedle system for controlled mRNA vaccine delivery. Dual hydrogel layers with distinct phase transitions enable an initial release pulse at normal body temperature (~37 °C), sustained low-dose diffusion to reinforce immunity, and reversible suppression under fever-like conditions (~39 °C). Encapsulated lipid/polymer nanoparticles preserve mRNA integrity and stability, reducing cold-chain dependence. By integrating materials engineering, nanotechnology, and vaccine science, SHINE-Vax will deliver a proof-of-concept prototype (TRL 2–3) demonstrating autonomous, adaptive release. This innovation aims to enhance vaccine efficacy and safety while broadening accessibility, particularly in resource-limited settings, positioning Europe at the forefront of next-generation, patient-friendly vaccination technologies.