Hyderabad-based biotechnology startup PopVax launched the RNA Foundry in Hyderabad on 31 October 2026. The integrated research, development and manufacturing facility is dedicated to RNA medicines, including personalised cancer vaccines.
Personalised vaccine development
Founded in 2021 by Soham Sankaran, PopVax uses an AI-powered platform combining artificial intelligence, machine learning and molecular biology. Its process analyses a patient’s tumour-sequencing data to identify unique mutations and tumour-specific targets called neoantigens. The mRNA-lipid nanoparticle (LNP) platform carries genetic instructions intended to train the immune system to recognise and attack cancer cells; the company describes it as fridge-stable. The facility operates in collaboration with Stochastic Sciences, which specialises in personalised medicines.
Manufacturing plans and clinical development
PopVax aims to manufacture more than 100 personalised cancer vaccine candidates over the next 12 months. The company estimates that most projects take about 8–10 weeks and cost around USD 300,000. These remain experimental candidates and are not approved for routine treatment. The RNA Foundry was built to align with global Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards. Separately, PopVax’s first mRNA vaccine candidate, designed for broad protection against COVID-19, entered a Phase I clinical trial in Australia on 31 August 2026.
Important Facts for Exams
- Neoantigen selection: Deep sequencing can identify mutations in a tumour’s protein-coding exome and predict potential neoantigens for individually targeted cancer vaccines.
- mRNA therapeutic class: Among RNA therapeutic types, mRNA is distinctive because it prompts protein synthesis inside cells, making it particularly useful for vaccine development.
- Cytoplasmic action: mRNA can function after reaching the cytoplasm without entering the nucleus, and unlike plasmids or viral vectors, it does not integrate into the genome.
- LNP endosomal release: In LNP delivery, acidic endosomes make ionisable cationic lipids positively charged; this is thought to help the particles escape and release RNA payloads.
