NEC Partners with Nagasaki University and CEPI to Develop AI-Driven mRNA Vaccine for SFTS and Future Epidemic Threats

NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) has announced a strategic partnership with the Nagasaki University DEJIMA Infectious Disease Research Alliance (Director: Prof. Kouichi Morita) to advance research and development (R&D) of a novel vaccine for Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS). This initiative is supported by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), with funding of up to 750 million JPY.

The project will leverage Nagasaki University’s proprietary “Nanoball” vaccine technology and NEC OncoImmunity (NOI)’s artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize vaccine composition and identify key protein candidates for the SFTS vaccine. The tick-borne SFTS virus, a member of the Phenuivirus family, presents a significant public health threat in Japan and East Asia, with high mortality rates and no currently approved vaccine.

Accelerating Vaccine Innovation with AI and Nanoball Technology

Nagasaki University’s cutting-edge Nanoball technology encapsulates mRNA within nanoparticle carriers to enhance vaccine stability and efficacy. Unlike conventional mRNA vaccines, Nanoball formulations are designed to improve cellular uptake and immune response while reducing the need for ultra-low-temperature storage. This breakthrough could expand vaccine accessibility in low-resource settings, including low- and middle-income countries lacking advanced cold-chain infrastructure.

Dr. Richard Hatchett, CEO of CEPI, emphasized the urgency of pandemic preparedness, stating: “We don’t know where or when the next Disease X will strike – but we know that it is coming. As the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated, rapid response capabilities are critical. We are excited to collaborate with our partners in Japan to explore whether Nagasaki University’s Nanoball technology can enhance mRNA delivery and accelerate vaccine development.”

Prof. Takeshi Nagayasu, President of Nagasaki University, highlighted the university’s role in global health security: “Our partnership with CEPI and NEC aligns with our commitment to advancing innovative vaccine platforms. This project not only addresses the urgent need for an SFTS vaccine but also contributes to the 100 Days Mission, a global initiative to develop vaccines within three months of identifying a novel outbreak.”

Dr. Saverio Niccolini, CEO of NEC OncoImmunity, underscored the importance of AI-driven solutions: “Our AI technology is uniquely positioned to accelerate the discovery of effective vaccine candidates. We are honored to collaborate with CEPI and Nagasaki University to tackle SFTS and explore broader applications for epidemic and pandemic preparedness.”

Key Objectives of the R&D Project

1. Addressing the SFTS Public Health Threat

SFTS is a viral disease transmitted through tick bites, causing severe fever, thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), leukopenia (low white blood cell count), and multi-organ failure. Prevalent in East Asia, particularly Western Japan, SFTS has a high fatality rate, making vaccine development a top priority.

2. Scope of Research & Development

This preclinical research project will focus on optimizing the Nanoball vaccine formulation and conducting AI-driven protein analysis to identify the most effective mRNA sequences for SFTS vaccine development.

3. Potential Global Impact

If successful, the platform could be adapted for other infectious disease threats, including the hypothetical Disease X—a term referring to unknown pathogens with pandemic potential. This research could lay the foundation for clinical trials and regulatory approvals, contributing to global health security.

Overview of the Research and Development Initiative

CEPI

CEPI is a global coalition dedicated to accelerating vaccine development against emerging infectious diseases. Backed by governments, industry, and philanthropic organizations, CEPI spearheads initiatives like the 100 Days Mission to rapidly develop vaccines for epidemic threats. Japan has been a key CEPI supporter since its inception.

Funding & Agreement

Nagasaki University has secured a three-year, $5 million (approximately 750 million JPY) CEPI grant, marking the third CEPI-supported initiative in Japan.

Project Execution

• Nagasaki University will refine its Nanoball formulation using expertise from Japanese encephalitis virus research.

• NEC OncoImmunity will apply AI-driven genetic sequence analysis to identify optimal mRNA vaccine candidates.

• Preclinical studies led by Prof. Jiro Yasuda’s team will evaluate vaccine efficacy.

Expected Outcomes

• Development of an optimized mRNA vaccine candidate for SFTS.

• Foundation for clinical trials and potential regulatory approvals.

• Advancement of AI and Nanoball technology for broader vaccine applications.

• Contribution to global epidemic and pandemic preparedness efforts.

NEC, Nagasaki University, and CEPI remain committed to pioneering next-generation vaccine technologies to protect populations against emerging infectious diseases. This partnership underscores the importance of global collaboration in advancing scientific innovation and preparedness strategies against future outbreaks.