Christine Wei
mRNA vaccines delivered by lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have transformed modern vaccinology, most notably through COVID-19 vaccines, and are now being actively explored for cancer and infectious diseases. A key challenge in this field is generating durable immune responses in the specific organs affected by disease. Working in Dr. Hai-Quan Mao’s lab, I investigated how the composition of LNPs influences where they travel in the body after vaccination and how this shapes tissue-specific immune responses. Through this work, I discovered that intramuscularly administered mRNA LNP vaccines exhibit formulation-dependent systemic trafficking to major organs such as the liver and lungs. Importantly, this trafficking behavior was linked to tissue-specific immune activation and long-term immune memory, including the generation of tissue-resident memory T cells, a population that provides durable local protection. This discovery advances our understanding of how mRNA LNP vaccines function in vivo and opens new opportunities to develop targeted vaccines and immunotherapies for cancer and other diseases where durable, localized immune protection is critical.
Questions & Answers
Why did you choose Johns Hopkins for your work?
I chose Johns Hopkins for my work because of its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary and translational research. At Hopkins, I have the opportunity to work closely with scientists and clinicians across fields such as materials engineering, immunology and oncology, which is essential for developing new immunotherapies. In particular, the close integration between the school of engineering and Johns Hopkins Medicine creates an environment where scientific discoveries can more readily translate into real clinical impact. This collaborative ecosystem makes Hopkins an ideal place for me to conduct research, continue learning and contribute to advancing the immunoengineering field.
What does receiving this award mean to you personally and professionally? Do you have any connection with the particular award you received?
Receiving the Mette Strand Research Award is deeply meaningful to me as recognition of the dedication and curiosity that have driven my research journey. Professionally, it motivates me to continue pursuing impactful translational research in immunoengineering and vaccine design that can improve human health. It is especially meaningful to receive an award honoring Professor Mette Strand, whose legacy celebrates scientific excellence and commitment to research and mentorship, which are values that I hope to carry forward in my own career.
What contributed to your project’s success? (Special skills, interests, opportunities, guidance, etc.)
The success of this project was made possible by the guidance and support of many mentors and collaborators. I am especially grateful to my adviser, Dr. Hai-Quan Mao, for his mentorship and for fostering an environment that encourages curiosity, creativity and translational research. I would also like to thank my project co-lead, Dr. Yining Zhu, as well as my lab colleagues and collaborators, whose teamwork and insights were invaluable throughout this work.
What thoughts do you have about Young Investigators’ Day itself, as a celebration of the roles students and fellows play in research at Johns Hopkins?
Young Investigators’ Day provides a meaningful opportunity for trainees across disciplines to connect, share their work and learn from one another. Events like this are important reminders that trainees are the driving force behind scientific discoveries, and it is inspiring to see their contributions recognized and celebrated!
What has been your best/most memorable experience while at Johns Hopkins?
Independently teaching the undergraduate intersession course Introduction to Nanomedicine was one of my most memorable experiences at Johns Hopkins! I truly enjoyed the entire teaching experience, and was especially happy to see that the class I offered sparked interest among the students, many of whom later went on to pursue undergraduate research in nanomedicine.
What are your plans over the next year or so? Graduating, looking for faculty positions, etc.?
Over the next year, I plan to complete my Ph.D. and graduate. After that, I hope to pursue a career in industry focused on vaccine and immunotherapy development.
Tell me something interesting about yourself that makes you unique. Do you have any special hobbies, interests or life experiences?
I have been fostering cats during the summers while at Hopkins. So far, I have fostered four cats!