The companies will combine ITI's technology with Replicate's scalable self-replicating RNA technology to develop vaccine candidates for COVID-19, HPV, and Epstein-Barr virus. The platform, called UNITE, is based on universal intracellular targeted expression, which works by fusing pathogenic antigens with lysosomal-associated membrane protein for immune processing. UNITE was utilized in ongoing phase II clinical trials to produce cancer immunotherapies.

ITI will cover development costs and invest in Replicate. Per the arrangement, Teri Heiland, PhD, ITI's co-founder and chief scientific officer, will be appointed to Replicate's Scientific Advisory Board.

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