IL-7 promotes mRNA vaccine-induced long-term immunity

Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines are a key technology in combating existing and emerging infectious diseases. However, improving the immunogenicity and durability of mRNA vaccines remains a challenge. To elicit optimal immune responses, integrating antigen-encoded mRNA and immunostimulatory adjuvants into a single formulation is a promising approach to enhancing the efficacy of mRNA vaccines. Here, we report an adjuvant strategy to enhance the efficacy of mRNA vaccines by co-loading mRNA encoding the antigen (rabies virus glycoprotein, RABV-G) and mRNA encoding IL-7 into lipid nanoparticles, achieving co-delivery to the same antigen-presenting cells. A single immunization with G&IL-7 mRNA vaccine elicited robust humoral immune responses in mice and conferred complete protection against RABV challenge. Notably, the high levels of neutralizing antibody induced by the G&IL-7 mRNA vaccine were maintained for at least 6 months, providing mice with long-term significant and complete protection against RABV. Additionally, IL-7 also enhanced antibody responses against the SARS-CoV-2. These data demonstrate that IL-7 is a potent mRNA vaccine adjuvant that can provide the required immune stimulation in various mRNA vaccine formulations.