Brisbane, Australia — February 23, 2026: In a groundbreaking development for pediatric oncology, Southern RNA, an Australian Contract Development Manufacturing Organisation, has announced its role in manufacturing the world’s first personalized mRNA cancer vaccine for children with aggressive brain tumors. This initiative is part of a landmark clinical trial that could redefine treatment possibilities for young patients facing these challenging conditions.
The PaedNEO-VAX trial, backed by Canadian organization Providence Therapeutics, the Australian Government, and numerous philanthropic donors, represents the first multi-site pediatric study to test individualized mRNA vaccines tailored to each child’s unique cancer profile. This trial, set to commence in March 2026, will be conducted across eight pediatric hospitals in Australia, including locations in Queensland, South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria, and Western Australia.
A New Frontier for Pediatric Brain Cancer
The PaedNEO-VAX trial is open to children and adolescents suffering from relapsed or refractory high-grade brain tumors, such as high-grade glioma, diffuse midline glioma, medulloblastoma, and ependymoma. Phase I of the trial will focus on establishing the safety and optimal dosing of the vaccine, while Phase II will assess clinical outcomes, including disease progression, survival rates, and quality of life improvements for patients and their families.
Utilizing advanced genome sequencing and data analysis, tumor-specific targets will be identified for each child. Southern RNA will then manufacture customized mRNA vaccines locally in Australia, with an anticipated turnaround time of approximately 10 weeks from enrollment to dosing.
Southern RNA: Pioneering Sovereign mRNA Manufacturing
Southern RNA was founded in response to Australia’s need for sovereign mRNA manufacturing capabilities in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Chris Peck, the company’s Founder and Managing Director, emphasized the broader potential of mRNA technology, stating, “In early 2023, it became clear that messenger RNA had such amazing potential for other treatments beyond COVID, particularly for personalized treatment for unmet medical needs such as cancer.”
“This trial embodies our mantra of ‘Advancing a Better Health for Australians,’” said Chris Peck. “We are proud to support this world-first pediatric trial here in Australia and hopeful it will pave the way for similar initiatives throughout the world.”
After more than three years of scientific setup and research and development, Southern RNA is poised to make a significant impact in the field of personalized medicine, offering hope to families facing devastating diagnoses.
Implications and Future Prospects
The announcement of the PaedNEO-VAX trial comes at a time when the global medical community is increasingly focusing on personalized medicine as a frontier for treating complex diseases. The success of this trial could not only transform the landscape of pediatric oncology but also set a precedent for similar initiatives worldwide.
Experts in the field of biotechnology and oncology are closely watching the trial’s progress. Dr. Emily Carter, a leading oncologist at the University of Queensland, commented, “This trial is a testament to the power of collaboration between academia, industry, and government. It could potentially change the way we approach cancer treatment in young patients.”
As Southern RNA continues to develop its capabilities, the company remains committed to supporting researchers and therapeutic organizations in bringing their innovations to clinical trials safely, quickly, and cost-effectively.
About Southern RNA
Southern RNA is an Australian biotechnology company focused on the development, process optimization, and GMP manufacturing of RNA-based therapeutics, with a strong emphasis on mRNA vaccines and personalized medicines. The organization supports partners across the full translation pathway from early research and construct design through to clinical-grade production, helping bridge the gap between discovery and patient-ready products.
For more information, visit www.southernrna.com.au.
