Achieve sustained protein expression with lower RNA input.  

Self-amplifying RNA (saRNA), also known as self-replicating RNA (srRNA), enables stronger and longer-lasting protein expression while requiring significantly lower doses than conventional mRNA. Its longer half-life and extended protein expression make it an interesting tool for vaccines or other therapies.


From custom RNA production to LNP formulation and in vitro validation, Tebubio provides the tools and services to advance your saRNA research.

Self-Amplifying RNA (saRNA)
Messenger RNA (mRNA)
↘
Antigen is
translated
↓
Replicase is translated
↓
Replicase amplifies saRNA
↓
More antigen is translated
↓
Antigen is translated

Fig 1. Comparative overview of saRNA and mRNA in the host cell

Our workflows support the production by in vitro transcription (IVT)

mRNA

Messenger RNA
CAP Coding sequence poly(A)
Protein

For short-term expression of various types of proteins.

saRNA

Self-amplifying RNA
Replicase Target
Sustained protein production

For long-lasting and more stable expression.

circRNA

Circular RNA
IRES + ORF
Protein

For durable cap-independent expression.

Polycistronic RNA

Multiple coding sequences
Gene 1 2A Gene 2 2A Gene 3
Multiple proteins

For co-expression of multiple targets, including multi-antigen and multi-subunit applications.

Why use self-amplifying RNA?

Unlike conventional mRNA, saRNA amplifies itself inside the cell, increasing protein expression while reducing the amount of RNA required. 

Key advantages

Lower RNA input

Self-amplification can achieve comparable protein expression using substantially less RNA than conventional mRNA.

Long-lasting expression

saRNA can support protein production over longer periods, potentially reducing the need for repeated administration.

Broad therapeutic potential

saRNA is being investigated across vaccines, oncology, protein replacement and other therapeutic applications.

saRNA has moved beyond early-stage research: the first self-amplifying mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, Kostaive, received EU marketing authorisation in 2025. 

Higher protein expression with less RNA

5x less RNA. Comparable protein expression. 

Our HEK293 data show that Tebubio saRNA achieved comparable protein expression using only 20% of the RNA input compared to standard mRNA. 

Fig 2. FLuc luminescence in HEK293 cells 48h after transfection with Tebubio saRNA or mRNA: a comparable luminescence signal to mRNA could be achieved using only one-fifth the amount of saRNA.

>1 week of protein expression

Tebubio saRNA maintained measurable protein expression for more than one week in HEK293 cells. 

 

eGFP fluorescence over time in HEK293 cells

Fig 3. eGFP fluorescence overtime in HEK293 cells: the fluorescence signal obtained with Tebubio eGFP saRNA was stable for over a week.  

Ready to advance your saRNA project? 

Whether you're developing vaccines, oncology therapeutics or protein replacement strategies, Tebubio supports every stage of your workflow, from custom saRNA production to delivery and biological validation.

End-to-end solutions: from RNA to biological validation 

Tebubio supports every stage of your RNA project with integrated solutions designed to streamline the transition from RNA production to in vivo applications. 

Why Choose Tebubio as Your Laboratory Service Provider

EXPERTISE

PhD-level expertise

Scientific guidance tailored to your research question.

FLEXIBILITY

Support at the right scale

From a single assay to a complete study, with solutions that evolve with your project.

SIMPLICITY

One partner, less complexity

From study design to results, with a dedicated project manager by your side.

ACCESSIBILITY

European expertise, global reach

Your research, handled in France, with close collaboration and support for researchers in Europe.

Why Choose Tebubio for Custom RNA Production?

500+ RNA projects completed
Experience supporting complex RNA research projects from early development through preclinical studies.
FLEXIBILITY Flexible RNA formats
mRNA, saRNA, circRNA and polycistronic RNA with customizable sequences and production parameters.
PERFORMANCE Proven RNA Performance Across Applications
From therapeutic and delivery solution development to structural studies (NMR and cryoEM) and PCR-based quality control.
INTEGRATION One partner across the workflow
Connect RNA production with LNP formulation and biological validation without having to coordinate multiple CROs.

Why Choose Tebubio as Your Laboratory Service Provider

EXPERTISE

PhD-level expertise

Scientific guidance tailored to your research question.

FLEXIBILITY

Support at the right scale

From a single assay to a complete study, with solutions that evolve with your project.

SIMPLICITY

One partner, less complexity

From study design to results, with a dedicated project manager by your side.

ACCESSIBILITY

European expertise, global reach

Your research, handled in France, with close collaboration and support for researchers in Europe.

Scientific Resources 

Explore how to optimize Lipid Nanoparticules for mRNA delivery for drug development.  

This study highlights key formulation parameters: buffer composition, lipid selection; crucial for enhancing transfection and therapeutic efficacy.  

Xavier Warnet PhD, our CRO's project manager published a review on how scientists have developed lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) that make it possible to deliver RNA in a more precise manner, paving the way for future development in oncology.

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