Hyderabad-based biotechnology startup PopVax is developing personalised cancer vaccines using artificial intelligence (AI) and messenger RNA (mRNA) technology. The vaccines aim to help a patient’s immune system recognise and attack cancer cells based on the specific genetic characteristics of their tumour. To advance this research, the company has launched the RNA Foundry, an integrated research, development and manufacturing facility in Hyderabad, in collaboration with Stochastic Sciences. The facility will support the development and production of personalised RNA medicines while strengthening India’s capabilities in mRNA technology.
AI and Machine Learning Drive Personalised Cancer Vaccine Development
PopVax founder Soham Sankaran said the company combines AI, machine learning and molecular biology to develop cancer vaccines tailored to individual patients. The approach focuses on identifying the unique genetic characteristics of each patient’s tumour and using this information to design a targeted vaccine.
How Does the mRNA Cancer Vaccine Work?
PopVax uses an mRNA-lipid nanoparticle (LNP) platform to develop its personalised cancer vaccines. The mRNA carries genetic instructions that enable the body’s cells to produce specific proteins associated with a patient’s tumour. These proteins, known as antigens, are intended to train the immune system to recognise and attack cancer cells.
The development process begins with sequencing the genetic material of a patient’s tumour to identify specific mutations. Subsequently, PopVax applies machine learning to identify potential neoantigens — abnormal proteins or protein fragments produced by cancer cells that may trigger an immune response.
Based on this analysis, the company designs an mRNA sequence containing instructions to produce the selected antigens. Once administered, the vaccine is intended to help the patient’s immune system recognise these tumour-specific markers and target cancer cells carrying them.
RNA Foundry to Strengthen India’s mRNA Capabilities
The launch of the RNA Foundry marks an important step in PopVax’s efforts to advance personalised RNA-based medicines. By integrating research, development and manufacturing capabilities, the facility will support the development and production of mRNA-based therapeutics. As reported by The New Indian Express, through its AI-driven approach and mRNA technology platform, PopVax aims to advance personalised cancer vaccine development and contribute to India’s emerging biotechnology and RNA therapeutics ecosystem.