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bioRxiv · 10.64898/2026.03.11.711036

Preliminary stability studies of a ss-SARS-CoV-2 virus-like particle vaccine

Torresi, J.·Edeling, M. A.·Earnest-Silveira, L.·Carrera, J.·Yap, A. H. Y.·Hans, D.
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Abstract

We aimed to study the stability of a {beta}-SARS-CoV-2 virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine in a series of preliminary experiments using select stabilising excipients. {beta}-SARS-CoV-2 VLPs were produced and purified using established methodologies. The thermostability of VLPs was tested at 4{degrees}C and -30{degrees}C in the presence or absence of stabilizers polysorbate 80, sorbitol or L-histidine in the presence of a physiological NaCl concentration of 137mM. The integrity of VLPs was assessed using ELISA, Western immunoblot and dynamic light scatter (DLS). {beta}-SARS-CoV-2 VLPs were stable at 4{degrees}C for 14 days and the addition of stabilizing excipients improved stability compared to VLPs in PBS alone. Storage of VLPs at -80{degrees}C maintained particle integrity by DLS analysis for up to 2 years. Excipients helped to maintain the immunogenicity of the VLPs by ELISA and Western immunoblot and DLS analysis revealed that VLPs retained their particulate structure. ImportanceSARS-CoV-2 continues to circulate globally and cause significant illness. The problem of waning immunity to mRNA/LNPs has necessitated frequent boosters to keep pace of emerging variants. The development of alternative vaccines therefore remans a priority. Protein based vaccines, like VLPs, offer a safe alternative able to produce longer lasting immune responses. In this preliminary stability analysis, the {beta}-SARS-CoV-2 VLPs were found to be stable at 4{degrees}C and the addition of excipients improved VLP stability. Storage of VLPs at -30{degrees}C and -80{degrees}C also showed that the VLPs are stable for very long periods. Our findings will be of importance for the ongoing development of a SARS-CoV-2 VLP based vaccine.

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Torresi, J., Edeling, M. A., Earnest-Silveira, L., Carrera, J., Yap, A. H. Y., Hans, D.. 2026-03-12. Preliminary stability studies of a ss-SARS-CoV-2 virus-like particle vaccine. https://doi.org/10.64898/2026.03.11.711036

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