GC Green Cross is pushing ahead with the development of a COVID-19 vaccine based on its self-developed mRNA-LNP platform. The company is targeting submission of a phase 2 clinical trial plan in the second half of this year.

GC Green Cross announced on the 11th that it participated in the “Seoul Pandemic X Summit 2026” held on the 10th and presented its mRNA vaccine development strategy for future pandemic preparedness.

The Seoul Pandemic X Summit is an event organized to discuss international cooperation measures to prepare for future infectious disease pandemics. Participants discussed global cooperation systems and response strategies for the rapid development and supply of vaccines.

At the event, GC Green Cross introduced its proprietary mRNA-LNP platform and the current status of research on its COVID-19 vaccine candidate under development using this platform.

mRNA vaccines induce an immune response by delivering genetic information designed to produce antigen proteins into the body. LNP (lipid nanoparticles) are lipid-based nano-sized particles that encapsulate mRNA, which can be easily degraded in the body, and deliver it to target cells.

GC Green Cross has been researching its mRNA-LNP platform since 2019 using artificial intelligence deep learning technology. The company explained that it designs sequences so that human cells can efficiently read mRNA information by using codon optimization software, and optimizes the lipid structure and composition of LNPs based on AI.

According to GC Green Cross, its COVID-19 mRNA vaccine candidate under development with this platform demonstrated an immune response at a level similar to that of existing global vaccines in non-clinical studies. The company also stated that it obtained results from non-clinical safety evaluations that support continued development.

However, the non-clinical results are from studies in animals or experimental settings, and actual safety and preventive efficacy in humans must be verified through future clinical trials.

GC Green Cross also stated that it has established a system that enables it to independently perform all stages of vaccine development and production, from cell line development and mRNA synthesis to LNP formulation, finished product manufacturing, and quality analysis. The company plans to shorten the time required from candidate design to production in the event of an infectious disease outbreak.

Jung Jae-wook, head of R&D at GC Green Cross, said, “Based on our accumulated mRNA research capabilities and production infrastructure, we are building a foundation for rapid response to future pandemics,” adding, “We will continue research to secure vaccine development competitiveness at a global level.”

Meanwhile, GC Green Cross completed the first administration to a subject in its phase 1 clinical trial of a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine at the end of January. The company plans to submit a phase 2 clinical trial plan in the second half of this year.

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