McGill University funds five cutting-edge projects to advance mRNA vaccine development for mpox
With over 100,000 confirmed mpox cases worldwide—including more than 1,900 in Canada—researchers at McGill University are stepping up efforts to develop more efficient, faster, and adaptable vaccines using messenger RNA (mRNA) technology.
Originally endemic to Central and West Africa, mpox is now a global health concern. mRNA vaccines offer several key advantages over traditional vaccines: improved protection, quicker production times, and the ability to adapt to emerging variants.
💡 Funding Innovative Solutions
Through its “DNA to RNA” (D2R) initiative, and the Interdisciplinary Initiative in Infection and Immunity, McGill has awarded $500,000 to five promising research projects aimed at delivering rapid breakthroughs with real-world impact.
🔬 Meet the Researchers
- Prof. Jorg Hermann Fritz
Department of Microbiology and Immunology; Director, McGill Research Centre on Complex Traits
Investigates boosting mpox immunity using smallpox vaccines and identifying new targets for mpox vaccines.
📧 jorg.fritz@mcgill.ca (English, German) - Prof. Leo Liu
Department of Microbiology and Immunology
Focuses on developing a more effective mRNA-based mpox vaccine and overcoming mass production challenges.
📧 leo.liu@mcgill.ca (English) - Prof. Erwin Schurr
Departments of Medicine and Human Genetics
Studies how mpox affects immune cells in the lungs to create targeted therapies that block virus spread.
📧 erwin.schurr@mcgill.ca (English) - Prof. Silvia Vidal
Department of Microbiology and Immunology
Tests a new RNA-based vaccine technology in mice to improve future vaccine effectiveness.
📧 silvia.vidal@mcgill.ca (English)
