RNA COMPOSITIONS TARGETING CLAUDIN-18.2

BACKGROUND

[1] Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally and is expected to be responsible for an estimated 9.6 million deaths in 2018 (Bray et al. 2018). In general, once a solid tumor has metastasized, with a few exceptions such as germ cell and some carcinoid tumors, 5-year survival rarely exceeds 25%.

[2] Conventional therapies such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and targeted therapies and recent advances in immunotherapies have improved outcomes in patients with advanced solid tumors. In the last few years, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) have approved eight checkpoint inhibitors (one monoclonal antibody targeting the CTLA-4 pathway, ipilimumab, and seven antibodies targeting programmed death receptor/ligand [PD/PD-L1], including atezolizumab, avelumab, durvalumab, nivolumab, cemiplimab and pembrolizumab), for the treatment of patients with multiple cancer types, mainly solid tumors. These approvals have dramatically changed the landscape of cancer treatment. However, certain cancers such as pancreatic adenocarcinoma or metastatic biliary tract cancers still do not yet benefit from existing therapies including immunotherapies.

SUMMARY

[3] The poor prognosis of certain cancers such as, e.g. , pancreatic and biliary cancer types, highlights the need for additional treatment approaches.

[4] The present disclosure, among other things, provides insights and technologies for treating cancer, particularly, cancers that are associated with expression of Claudin-18.2 (CLDN- 18.2). In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides technologies for treating a cancer selected from the group consisting of pancreatic cancers, gastric or gastro-esophageal cancers, biliary cancers, ovarian cancers, etc. In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides technologies for administration of therapy to locally advanced tumors. In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides technologies for treatment of unresectable tumors. In some embodiments, provided technologies provide technologies for treatment of metastatic tumors. Thus, for example, in some embodiments, provided therapy may be administered to a subject or population of subjects suffering from or susceptible to cancer (e.g., to a cancer selected from pancreatic cancers, gastric or gastro-esophageal cancers, biliary cancers, ovarian cancers, and/or otherwise involves one or more pancreatic, gastric, gastroesophageal, biliary, and/or ovarian tumors), which cancer may be or comprise one or more locally advanced tumors, one or more unresectable tumors and/or one or more metastases.

[5] The present disclosure, among other things, provides an insight that Claudin- 18.2 (CLDN-18.2) represents a particularly useful tumor-associated antigen against which therapies may be targeted. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the present disclosure notes that CLDN-18.2’s tissue expression pattern, including its particularly limited expression in non-cancer tissues, may contribute to its usefulness as a target as described herein. To date, no therapy targeting CLDN-18.2 has been approved for any cancer indication.

[6] Zolbetuximab (development code IMAB362), which is a monoclonal antibody that targets isoform 2 of Claudin- 18, has been under investigation for the treatment of gastrointestinal adenocarcinomas and pancreatic tumors (Tureci et al. 2019).

[7] The present disclosure further provides an insight that, in some embodiments, therapy targeting CLDN-18.2, as described herein, may usefully involve administration of RNA (e.g., ssRNA such as mRNA) encoding an antibody agent that targets CLDN-18.2. Still further, the present disclosure provides a particular insight that delivery of RNA via lipid nanoparticles targeting liver cells may be a particularly beneficial strategy for delivering such an antibody agent.

[8] The present disclosure further provides an insight that a RiboMab format (as illustrated for example, in Figure 13) and, in particular, the RNA sequences and sequence elements described herein may be particularly useful for RNA (e.g., ssRNA such as mRNA) that delivers a CLDN-18.2-targeting agent (e.g., a CLDN-18.2-targeted antibody agent) as described herein.

[9] The present disclosure, among other things, provides an insight that administration of RNA (e.g., ssRNA such as mRNA) encoding a CLDN-18.2-targeting agent, and in particular a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent, and specifically IMAB362 may represent a particularly desirable strategy for CLDN-18.2-targeted therapy. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the present disclosure proposes that such delivering modality may achieve one or more improvements such as effective administration with reduced incidence (e.g., frequency and/or severity) of TEAEs, and/or with improved relationship between efficacy level and TEAE level (e.g., improved therapeutic window) relative to those observed when a corresponding (e.g., encoded) protein (e.g., antibody) agent itself is administered. In particular, the present disclosure teaches that such improvements in particular may be achieved by delivering IMAB362 via administration of RNA(s) (e.g., ssRNA(s) such as mRNA(s)) encoding it.

[10] In some embodiments, the present disclosure, among other things, provides insights that mRNA(s) encoding an antibody agent (e.g., IMAB362) or a functional portion thereof that is/or formulated with lipid nanoparticles (LNP) for intravenous (IV) administration can be taken up by target cells (e.g., liver cells) for efficient production of the encoded antibody agent (e.g., IMAB362) at therapeutically relevant plasma concentrations, for example, as illustrated in Figure 14 for the described RiboMab targeting CLDN-18.2.

[11] In some embodiments, the present disclosure utilizes RiboMabs as CLDN-18.2- targeting agents. In some embodiments, such RiboMabs are antibody agents encoded by mRNA, e.g., engineered for minimal immunogenicity, and/or formulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs).

[12] Moreover, the present disclosure, among other things, provides an insight that the capability of a CLDN-18.2-targeted antibody agent as described herein to induce antibodydependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and/or complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) against target cells (e.g., tumor cells) while leveraging immune system of recipient subjects can augment cytotoxic effect(s) of chemotherapy and/or other anti-cancer therapy. In some embodiments, such a combination therapy may prolong progression-free and/or overall survival, e.g., relative to the individual therapies administered alone and/or to another appropriate reference.

[13] Without wishing to be bound by a particular theory, the present disclosure observes that certain chemotherapeutic agents, for example such as gemcitabine, oxaliplatin, and 5-fluorouracil were shown to upregulate existing CLDN-18.2 expression levels in pancreatic cancer cell lines; moreover, these agents were not observed to increase de novo expression in CLDN-18.2-negative cell lines. See, for example, Tiireci et al. (2019) “Characterization of zolbetuximab in pancreatic cancer models” In Oncoimmimology 8 (1), pp. el523096.

[14] The present disclosure, among other things, provides an insight that CLDN-18.2- targeted therapy as described herein may be particularly useful and/or effective when administered to tumor(s) (e.g., tumor cells, subjects in whom such tumor(s) and/or tumor cell(s) are suspected and/or have been detected, etc.) characterized by (e.g., that have been determined to display and/or that are expected or predicted to display) elevated expression and/or activity of CLDN-18.2 expression in tumor cells (e.g., as may result or have resulted from exposure to one or more chemotherapeutic agents). Indeed, among other things, the present disclosure teaches that provided CLDN-18.2-targeted therapy (e.g., administration of RNA and, more particularly an mRNA encoding a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent) as described herein may provide synergistic therapeutic when administered in combination with (e.g., to a subject who has received and/or is receiving or has otherwise been exposed to) one or more CDLN18.2- enhancing agents (e.g., one or more certain chemotherapeutic agents). Accordingly, in some embodiments, CLDN-18.2-targeted therapy as described herein can be useful in combination with other anti-cancer agents that are expected to and/or have been demonstrated to up-regulate CLDN-18.2 expression in tumor cells.

[15] In some aspects, provided herein are pharmaceutical compositions targeting CLDN-18.2. In some embodiments, such a pharmaceutical composition comprises: (a) at least one RNA (e.g., ssRNA) comprising one or more coding regions that encode an antibody agent that binds to a Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2) polypeptide, e.g., binds preferentially to a Claudin- 18.2 (CLDN-18.2) polypeptide relative to a Claudin-18.1 (CLDN18.1) polypeptide (“CLDN- 18.2-targeting antibody agent”); and (b) lipid nanoparticles; wherein the at least one RNA is encapsulated within at least one of the lipid nanoparticles. In some embodiments, such a pharmaceutical composition can comprise and/or deliver one or more RNAs encoding an antibody that binds to CLDN-18.2 polypeptide, e.g., binds preferentially to CLDN-18.2 polypeptide relative to a CLND18.1 polypeptide. In some embodiments, such a pharmaceutical composition can comprise and/or deliver one or more RNAs encoding an antigen binding fragment that binds to CLDN-18.2 polypeptide, e.g., binds preferentially to CLDN-18.2 polypeptide relative to a CLND18.1 polypeptide.

[16] In some embodiments, an antibody agent that targets CLDN-18.2 (and may be encoded by an RNA such as an ssRNA, e.g., an mRNA as described herein) specifically binds to a first extracellular domain (ECD1) of a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide. For example, in some embodiments, such an antibody agent specifically binds to an epitope of ECD 1 that is exposed in cancer cells. [17] In some embodiments, at least one RNA (e.g., ssRNA such as mRNA) encodes a variable heavy chain (VH) domain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent and a variable light chain (VL) domain of the antibody agent. In some embodiments, such VH domain(s) and VL domain(s) of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent may be encoded by a single RNA construct; alternatively in some embodiments they may be encoded separately by at least two individual RNA constructs. For example, in some embodiments, an RNA as utilized herein comprises two or more coding regions, which comprises a heavy chain-coding region that encodes at least a VH domain of the antibody agent; and a light chain-coding region that encodes at least a VL domain of the antibody agent. In alternative embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition may comprise: (i) a first RNA comprising a heavy chain-coding region that encodes at least a VH domain of the antibody agent; and (ii) a second RNA comprising a light chain-coding region that encodes at least a VL domain of the antibody agent.

[18] In some embodiments, a heavy chain-coding region can further encode a constant heavy chain (CH) domain; and/or a light chain-coding region can further encode a constant light chain (CL) domain. For example, in some embodiments, a heavy chain-coding region may encode a VH domain, a CHI domain, aCH domain, and a CH domain of an antibody agent in an immunoglobulin G (IgG) form; and/or a light chain-coding region may encode a VL domain and a CL domain of an antibody agent in an IgG form. In some embodiments, an antibody agent in an IgG form is IgGl.

[19] In some embodiments, a heavy chain-coding region of an RNA consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a full-length heavy chain of Zolbetuximab or Claudiximab. In some embodiments, a light chain-coding region of an RNA consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a full-length light chain of Zolbetuximab or Claudiximab.

[20] In some embodiments, RNA(s) that encode a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent may comprise a secretion signal-encoding region. In some embodiments, such a secretion signal-encoding region allows a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent encoded by one or more RNAs to be secreted upon translation by cells, e.g., present in a subject to be treated, thus yielding a plasma concentration of a biologically active CLDN- 18.2 -targeting antibody agent.

[21] Those skilled in the art will be aware of the burgeoning field of nucleic acid therapeutics, and moreover of RNA (e.g., ssRNA such as mRNA) therapeutics (see, for example, mRNA-encoding proteins and/or cytokines). Various embodiments of technologies provided herein may utilize particular features of RNA e.g., ssRNA such as mRNA) therapeutic technologies and/or delivery systems. For example, in some embodiments, an RNA (e.g., ssRNA such as mRNA) may comprise one or more modified nucleotides (e.g., but not limited to pseudouridine), nucleosides, and/or linkages. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, an RNA (e.g., ssRNA such as mRNA) may comprise a modified polyA sequence (e.g., a disrupted polyA sequence) that enhances stability and/or translation efficiency. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, an RNA (e.g., ssRNA such as mRNA) may comprise a specific combination of at least two 3’UTR sequences (e.g., a combination of a sequence element of an amino terminal enhancer of split RNA and a sequence derived from a mitochondrially encoded 12S RNA). Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, an RNA (e.g., ssRNA such as mRNA) may comprise a ‘5 UTR sequence that is derived from human a-globin mRNA. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, an RNA (e.g., ssRNA such as mRNA) may comprise a 5’ cap analog, e.g., for co-transcriptionally capping.

Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, an RNA (e.g., ssRNA such as mRNA) may comprise a secretion signal-coding region with reduced immunogenicity (e.g., a human secretion signal-coding sequence) such that an encoded antibody agent is expressed and secreted. In some embodiments, an RNA may be formulated in or with one or more delivery vehicles (e.g, nanoparticles such as lipid nanoparticles, etc.). Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, an RNA may be formulated in or with liver-targeting lipid nanoparticles (e.g., cationic lipid nanoparticles).

[22] In some embodiments, RNA(s) that encode a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent may comprise at least one non-coding sequence element (e.g., to enhance RNA stability and/or translation efficiency). Examples of non-coding sequence elements include but are not limited to a 3’ untranslated region (UTR), a 5’ UTR, a cap structure for co-transcriptional capping of mRNA, a poly adenine (polyA) tail, and any combinations thereof. For example, in some embodiments, RNA(s) (e.g., a first RNA and/or a second RNA) each independently comprise, in a 5’ to 3’ direction: (a) a 5’UTR; (b) a secretion signal-coding region; (c) the antibody chain-coding region; (d) a 3’ UTR; and (e) a polyA tail. In some embodiments, a polyA tail included in an RNA is or comprises a modified polyA sequence. [23] In some embodiments, RNA(s) that encode a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent may comprise a 5’ cap.

[24] In some embodiments, RNA(s) that encode a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent may comprise at least one modified ribonucleotide. For example, in some embodiments, at least one of A, U, C, and G ribonucleotide of RNA(s) s may be replaced by a modified ribonucleotide. In some embodiments, such a modified ribonucleotide may be or comprise pseudouridine.

[25] In some embodiments where a pharmaceutical composition comprises a first RNA encoding a variable heavy chain (VH) domain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent, e.g., a heavy chain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent, and a second RNA encoding a variable light chain (VL) domain of the antibody agent, e.g., a light chain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent, such a first RNA and a second RNA may be present in a molar ratio of about 1.5:1 to about 1:1.5. In some embodiments, such a first RNA and a second RNA may be present in a molar ratio of about 1.30, about 1.29, about 1.28, about 1.27, about 1.26, about 1.25, about 1.24, about 1.23, about 1.22, about 1.21, about 1.20, about 1.19, about 1.18, about 1.17, about 1.16, about 1.15, about 1.14, about 1.13, about 1.12, about 1.11, about 1.10, about 1.09, about 1.08, about 1.07, about 1.06, about 1.05, about 1.04, about 1.03, about 1.02, about 1.01, about

1 .00, about 0.99, about 0.98, about 0.97, about 0.96, about 0.95, about 0.94, about 0.93, about 0.92, about 0.91, about 0.90, about 0.89, about 0.88, about 0.87, about 0.86, about 0.85, about 0.84, about 0.83, about 0.82, about 0.81, or about 0.80. In some embodiments, such a first RNA and a second RNA may be present in a weight ratio of 3 : 1 to 1 : 1. In some embodiments, such a first RNA and a second RNA may be present in a weight ratio of about 2:1. In some embodiments, such a first RNA and a second RNA may be present in a weight ratio of about 2.2:1, about 2.1:1, about 2:1, about 1.9:1, about 1.8:1, about 1.7:1, about 1.6:1, about 1.5:1, about 1.4: 1 , about 1.3:1, or about 1.2:1.

[26] In some embodiments, RNA content (e.g., one or more RNAs encoding a CLDN- 18.2-targeting antibody agent) of a pharmaceutical composition described herein is present at a concentration of 0.5 mg/mL to 1.5 mg/mL.

[27] In some embodiments, lipid nanoparticles provided in pharmaceutical compositions described herein are liver-targeting lipid nanoparticles. In some embodiments, lipid nanoparticles provided in pharmaceutical compositions described herein are cationic lipid nanoparticles. In some embodiments, lipid particles provided in pharmaceutical compositions described herein may have an average size of about 50-150 nm.

[28] In some embodiments, lipids that form the lipid nanoparticles comprise: a polymer-conjugated lipid; a cationic lipid; and a neutral lipid. In some such embodiments, a polymer-conjugated lipid is be present in about 1-2.5 mol% of the total lipids; a cationic lipid is present in 35-65 mol% of the total lipids; and a neutral lipid is present in 35-65 mol% of the total lipids.

[29] Various lipids (including, e.g., polymer-conjugated lipids, cationic lipids, and neutral lipids) are known in the art and can be used herein to form lipid nanoparticles, e.g., lipid nanoparticles targeting a specific cell type (e.g., liver cells). In some embodiments, a polymer- conjugated lipid included in pharmaceutical compositions described herein may be a PEG- conjugated lipid (e.g., 2-[(polyethylene glycol)-2000]-N,N-ditetradecylacetamide or a derivative thereof). In some embodiments, a cationic lipid included in pharmaceutical compositions described herein may be ((3-hydroxypropyl)azanediyl)bis(nonane-9,l-diyl) bis(2-butyloctanoate) or a derivative thereof. In some embodiments, neutral lipid included in pharmaceutical compositions described herein may be or comprise a phospholipid or derivative thereof (e.g., l,2-distearoyI-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPSC)) and/or cholesterol.

[30] In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein may further comprise one or more additives, for example, in some embodiments that may enhance stability of such a composition under certain conditions. For example, in some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition may further comprise a cryoprotectant (e.g, sucrose) and/or an aqueous buffered solution, which may in some embodiments include one or more salts (e.g., sodium salts).

[31] In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein may further comprises one or more active agents other than RNA (e.g., an ssRNA such as an mRNA) encoding a CLDN-18.2-targeting agent (e.g., antibody agent). For example, in some embodiments, such other active agent may be or comprise a chemotherapeutic agent. An exemplary chemotherapeutic agent may be or comprise a chemotherapeutic agent indicated for treatment of pancreatic cancer. [32] In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein can be taken up by target cells for production of an encoded CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent at therapeutically relevant plasma concentrations. In some embodiments, such pharmaceutical compositions described herein can induce antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) against target cells (e.g., tumor cells).

[33] Accordingly, another aspect of the present disclosure relates to methods of using pharmaceutical compositions described herein. For example, one aspect provided herein relates to a method comprising administering a provided pharmaceutical composition to a subject suffering from a CLDN- 18.2-positive solid tumor. Examples of a CLDN- 18.2-positive solid tumor are but are not limited to a biliary tract tumor, a gastric tumor, a gastro-esophageal tumor, an ovarian tumor, a pancreatic tumor, and a tumor that expresses or exhibits a certain level of a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide. In some embodiments, a CLDN- 18.2-positive tumor may be characterized in that > 50% of tumor cells show > 2+ CLDN-18.2 protein staining intensity as assessed by an immunohistochemistry assay in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded neoplastic tissue from a subject to be administered. In some embodiments, a subject suffering from a CLDN-18.2-positive solid tumor may have a locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic tumor. In some embodiments, a subject suffering from a CLDN-18.2 positive solid tumor may have received a pre-treatment sufficient to increase CLDN-18.2 level such that his/her solid tumor is characterized as a CLDN- 18.2-positive solid tumor.

[34] In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein may be administered as monotherapy. In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition may be administered as part of combination therapy comprising such a pharmaceutical composition and a chemotherapeutic agent. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a subject who is receiving a provided pharmaceutical composition has received a chemotherapeutic agent. In some embodiments, a subject who is receiving a provided pharmaceutical composition is administered a chemotherapeutic agent such that such a subject is receiving both as a combination therapy. In some embodiments, a provided pharmaceutical composition and a chemotherapeutic agent may be administered concurrently or sequentially. For example, in some embodiments, a chemotherapeutic agent may be administered after (e.g., at least four hours after) administration of a provided pharmaceutical composition. [35] In some embodiments, technologies provided herein are useful for treatment of a CLDN-18.2 positive pancreatic tumor. In some embodiments involving administration of a provided pharmaceutical composition to a subject suffering from a CLDN-18.2-positive pancreatic tumor, such a subject may be receiving such a provided composition as a monotherapy or as part of a combination therapy comprising such a provided pharmaceutical composition and a chemotherapeutic agent indicated for treatment of pancreatic tumor. In some embodiments, such a chemotherapeutic agent may be or comprise gemcitabine and/or paclitaxel (e.g., nab-paclitaxel). In some embodiments, such a chemotherapeutic agent may be or comprise FOLFIRINOX, which is a combination of cancer drugs including: folinic acid (FOL), fluorouracil (F), irinotecan (IRIN), and oxalipatin (OX).

[36] In some embodiments, technologies provided herein are useful for treatment of a CLDN-18.2 positive biliary tract tumor. In some embodiments involving administration of a provided pharmaceutical composition to a subject suffering from a CLDN-18.2-positive biliary tract tumor, such a subject may be receiving such a provided composition as a monotherapy or as part of a combination therapy comprising such a provided pharmaceutical composition and a chemotherapeutic agent indicated for treatment of biliary tract tumor. In some embodiments, such a chemotherapeutic agent may be or comprise gemcitabine and/or cisplatin.

[37] Pharmaceutical compositions and methods described herein may be applicable to a subject of any age suffering from a CLDN-18.2 positive solid tumor. In some embodiments, a subject suffering from a CLDN-18.2 positive solid tumor is an adult subject.

[38] Pharmaceutical compositions described herein may be administered to a subject in need thereof by appropriate methods known in the art. For example, in some embodiments, a provided pharmaceutical composition may be administered to a subject suffering from a CLDN- 18.2 positive solid tumor by intravenous injection.

[39] Dosage of pharmaceutical compositions described herein may vary with a number of factors including, e.g., but not limited to body weight of a subject to be treated, cancer types and/or cancer stages, and/or monotherapy or combination therapy. In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein is administered to a subject suffering from a CLDN-18.2 positive solid tumor in at least one or more (including, e.g., at least two, at least three, at least four, at least five, at least six, at least seven, at least eight, or more) dosing cycles. In some embodiments, each dosing cycle may be a three-week dosing cycle. In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein is administered is at least one dose per dosing cycle. In some embodiments, a dosing cycle involves administration of a set number and/or pattern of doses; in some embodiments, a dosing cycle involves administration of a set cumulative dose, e.g., over a particular period of time, and optionally via multiple doses, which may be administered, for example, at set interval(s) and/or according to a set pattern. In some embodiments, each dose or a cumulative dose of a pharmaceutical composition described herein may comprise one or more RNAs encoding a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent (whether encoded by a single RNA or two or more RNAs) in an amount within a range of 0.1 mg/kg to 5 mg/kg body weight of a subject to be administered.

[40] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to certain improvement in a method of delivering a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent for cancer treatment in a subject, which method comprises administering to a cancer subject a provided pharmaceutical composition. In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein may achieve one or more improvements such as effective administration with reduced (e.g. , frequency and/or severity) of TEAEs, and/or with improved relationship between efficacy level and TEAE level (e.g., improved therapeutic window) relative to those observed when a corresponding (e.g., encoded) protein (e.g., antigen) agent itself is administered. In particular, the present disclosure teaches that such improvements in particular may be achieved by delivering IMAB362 via administration of RNA(s) (e.g., ssRNA(s) such as mRNA(s))) encoding it.

[41] Methods of producing a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent are also within the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, a method of producing a CLDN-18.2- targeting antibody agent comprises administering to cells a composition comprising at least one RNA (e.g., ones as described herein) comprising one or more coding regions that encode a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent so that such cells express and secrete a CLDN-18.2- targeting antibody agent encoded by such RNA(s). In some embodiments, cells to be administered or targeted are or comprise liver cells.

[42] In some embodiments, cells are present in a cell culture.

[43] In some embodiments, cells are present in a subject. In some such embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein may be administered to a subject in need thereof.

In some embodiments, such a pharmaceutical composition may be administered to a subject such that a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent is produced at a therapeutically relevant plasma concentration. In some embodiments, a therapeutically relevant plasma concentration is sufficient to mediate cancer cell death through antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). For example, in some embodiments, a therapeutically relevant plasma concentration is 0.3- 28 pghnL.

[44] Among other things, the present disclosure also provides methods of characterizing one or more features of an RNA or composition thereof, which RNA encodes part or all of an antibody agent. In some embodiments, a method comprising a step of: determining one or more features of an antibody agent expressed from at least one mRNA introduced into cells, wherein such at least one mRNA comprises one or more of features of at least one or more RNA comprising a coding region that encodes an antibody agent that binds to a Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2) polypeptide, e.g., binds preferentially to a Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2) polypeptide relative to a Claudin-18.1 polypeptide, wherein such one or more features comprises: (i) protein expression level of an antibody agent; (ii) binding specificity of an antibody agent to CLDN- 18.2; (iii) efficacy of an antibody agent to mediate target cell death through ADCC; and (iv) efficacy of an antibody agent to mediate target cell death through complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC).

[45] In some embodiments, provided herein is a method of characterizing a pharmaceutical composition targeting CLDN-18.2. Such a method comprises steps of: (a) contacting cells with at least one composition or pharmaceutical composition described herein (which encodes part or all of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent); and detecting an antibody agent produced by the cells. In some embodiments, the cells may be or comprise liver cells.

[46] In some embodiments, such a method may further comprise determining one or more features of an antibody agent expressed from one or more RNAs described herein, wherein such one or more features comprises: (i) protein expression level of the antibody agent; (ii) binding specificity of the antibody agent to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide; (iii) efficacy of the antibody agent to mediate target cell death through ADCC; and (iv) efficacy of the antibody agent to mediate target cell death through complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC). In some embodiments, a step of determining one or more features of an antibody agent expressed from one or more RNAs described herein may comprise comparing such features of the CLDN-18.2- targeting antibody agent with that of a reference CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody. [47] In some embodiments, a step of determining one or more features of an antibody agent expressed from one or more RNAs described herein may comprise assessing the protein expression level of the antibody agent above a threshold level. For example, in some embodiments, a threshold level corresponds to a therapeutically relevant plasma concentration.

[48] In some embodiments, a step of determining one or more features of an antibody agent expressed from one or more RNAs described herein may comprise assessing binding of the antibody agent to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide. In some embodiments, such binding assessment may comprise determining binding of the antibody agent to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide relative to its binding to a CLDN18.1 polypeptide. In some embodiments, such binding assessment may comprise determining a binding preference profile of the antibody agent at least comparable to that of a reference CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody. For example, in some embodiments, a reference CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody is Zolbetuximab or Claudiximab.

[49] In some embodiments, a provided method of characterizing a pharmaceutical composition targeting CLDN-18.2 or components thereof may further comprise characterizing an antibody agent expressed from one or more RNAs described herein as a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent if the antibody agent comprises the following features: (a) protein level of the antibody agent expressed by the cells above a threshold level; (b) preferential binding of the antibody agent to CLDN-18.2 relative to CLDN18.1 ; and (c) killing of at least 50% target cells (e.g., cancer cells) mediated by ADCC and/or CDC.

[50] In some embodiments, a provided method of characterizing a pharmaceutical composition targeting CLDN-18.2 or components thereof may further comprise characterizing an antibody agent expressed from one or more RNAs described herein as a Zolbetuximab or Claudiximab-equivalent antibody if tested features of the antibody are at least comparable to that of Zolbetuximab or Claudiximab.

[51] In some embodiments involving a step of determining one or more features of an antibody agent expressed from one or more RNAs described herein, such a step may comprise determining one or more of the following features:

* whether, when assessed 48 hours after contacting or administering, cells express a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent encoded by at least one RNA;

* whether the antibody agent expressed by the cells binds preferentially to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide relative to a CLDN18.1 polypeptide; • whether the antibody agent expressed by the cells exhibit comparable target specificity to CLDN-18.2 as observed in a flow cytometric binding assay with a reference CLDN-18.2- targeting monoclonal antibody;

• whether, when assessed 48 hours after incubating immune effector cells (e.g. , PBMC cells) and CLDN-18.2 positive cells or CLDN-18.2 negative control cells in the presence of the antibody agent, the CLDN-18.2 positive cells, not the control cells, were lysed;

• whether the antibody agent expressed by the cells exhibit at least comparable ADCC profile of targeted CLDN-18.2 positive cells as observed with a reference CLDN-18.2-targeting monoclonal antibody in the same concentration; and

• whether, when assessed 2 hours after incubating CLDN-18.2 positive cells or CLDN-18.2 negative control cells with human serum in the presence of the antibody agent, the CLDN- 18.2 positive cells, not the control cells, were lysed.

[52] In some embodiments, cells used in provided methods of characterizing a pharmaceutical composition targeting CLDN-18.2 or components thereof are present in vivo, e.g., in a subject (e.g., a mammalian subject such as a mammalian non-human subject, e.g., a mouse or monkey subject). In some such embodiments, a step of determining one or more features of an antibody agent expressed from one or more RNAs described herein may include determining antibody level in one or more tissues in such a subject. In some embodiments, such a method of characterizing may further comprise administering a composition or pharmaceutical composition described herein to a group of animal subjects each bearing a huma CLDN-18.2 positive xenograft tumor to determine anti-tumor activity, if such a composition or pharmaceutical composition is characterized as a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent.

[53] Also within the scope of the present disclosure includes a method of manufacture, which comprises steps of:

(A) determining one or more features of an RNA or composition thereof, which RNA encodes part or all of an antibody agent, which one or more features are selected from the group consisting of:

(i) length and/or sequence of the RNA;

(ii) integrity of the RNA;

(iii) presence and/or location of one or more chemical moieties of the RNA;

(iv) extent of expression of the antibody agent when the RNA is introduced into a cell; (v) stability of the RNA or composition thereof;

(vi) level of antibody agent in a biological sample from an organism into which the RNA has been introduced;

(vii) binding specificity of the antibody agent expressed from the RNA, optionally to CLDN-18.2 and optionally relative to CLDN 18.1 ;

(viii) efficacy of the antibody agent to mediate target cell death through ADCC;

(ix) efficacy of the antibody agent to mediate target cell death through complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC);

(x) lipid identity and amount/concentration within the composition;

(xi) size of lipid nanoparticles within the composition;

(xii) polydispersity of lipid nanoparticles within the composition;

(xiii) amount/concentration of the RNA within the composition;

(xiv) extent of encapsulation of the RNA within lipid nanoparticles; and

(xv) combinations thereof;

(B) comparing such one or more features of the RNA or composition thereof with that of an appropriate reference standard; and

(C) (i) designating the RNA or composition thereof for one or more further steps of manufacturing and/or distribution if the comparison demonstrates that the RNA or composition thereof meets or exceeds the reference standard; or

(ii) taking an alternative action if the comparison demonstrates that the RNA or composition thereof does not meet or exceed the reference standard.

[54] In some embodiments of a method of manufacture, when an RNA (e.g., ones described herein) is assessed and one or more features of the RNA meets or exceeds an appropriate reference standard, such an RNA is designated for formulation, e.g., in some embodiments involving formulation with lipid particles described herein.

[55] In some embodiments of a method of manufacture, when a composition comprising an RNA (e.g., ones described herein) is assessed and one or more features of the composition meets or exceeds an appropriate reference standard, such a composition is designated for release and/or distribution of the composition.

[56] In some embodiments of a method of manufacture, when an RNA (e.g., ones described herein) is designated for formulation, and/or a composition comprising an RNA (e.g., ones described herein) is designated for release and/or distribution of the composition, such a method may further comprise administering the formulation and/or composition to a group of animal subjects each bearing a human CLDN-18.2 positive xenograft tumor to determine antitumor activity.

[57] Provided herein is also a method of determining a dosing regimen of a pharmaceutical composition targeting CLDN-18.2. For example, in some embodiments, such a method comprises steps of: (A) administering a pharmaceutical composition (e.g., ones described herein) to a subject suffering from a CLDN-18.2 positive solid tumor under a pre-determined dosing regimen; (B) monitoring or measuring tumor size of the subject periodically over a period of time; (C) evaluating the dosing regimen based on the tumor size measurement(s). For example, a dose and/or dosage frequency can be increased if reduction in tumor size after the administration of a pharmaceutical composition (e.g., ones described herein) is not therapeutically relevant; or a dose and/or dosage frequency can be decreased if reduction in tumor size after the administration of a pharmaceutical composition (e.g., ones described herein) is therapeutically relevant, but adverse effect (e.g., toxicity effect) is shown in the subject. If reduction in tumor size after the administration of a pharmaceutical composition (e.g., ones described herein) is therapeutically relevant, and no adverse effect (e.g., toxicity effect) is shown in the subject, no changes is made to a dosage regimen.

[58] In some embodiments, such a method of determining a dosing regimen of a pharmaceutical composition targeting CLDN-18.2 may be performed in a group of animal subjects (e.g., mammalian non-human subjects) each a bearing a human CLDN-18.2 positive xenograft tumor. In some such embodiments, a dose and/or dosage frequency can be increased if less than 30% of the animal subjects exhibit reduction in tumor size after the administration of a pharmaceutical composition (e.g., ones described herein) and/or extent of reduction in tumor size exhibited by the animal subjects is not therapeutically relevant; or a dose and/or dosage frequency can be decreased if reduction in tumor size after the administration of a pharmaceutical composition (e.g., ones described herein) is therapeutically relevant, but significant adverse effect (e.g., toxicity effect) is shown in at least 30% of the animal subjects. If reduction in tumor size after the administration of a pharmaceutical composition (e.g., ones described herein) is therapeutically relevant, and no significant adverse effect (e.g., toxicity effect) is shown in the animal subjects, no changes is made to a dosage regimen. [59] The present disclosure, among other things, provides, in particular, a composition or medical preparation comprising:

(i) an RNA comprising a coding region that encodes a first polypeptide chain comprising a heavy chain of an antibody agent that binds to Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2), and

(ii) an RNA comprising a coding region that encodes a second polypeptide chain comprising a light chain of an antibody agent that binds to Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2), wherein the coding region under (i) comprises the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 79 to 1422 of SEQ ID NO: 16, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 79 to 1422 of SEQ ID NO: 16, and the coding region under (ii) comprises the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 79 to 738 of SEQ ID NO: 17, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 79 to 738 of SEQ ID NO: 17.

In some embodiments, the first polypeptide chain comprises the amino acid sequence of amino acids 27 to 474 of SEQ ID NO: 3, or an amino acid sequence having at least 90% identity to the amino acid sequence of amino acids 27 to 474 of SEQ ID NO: 3, and the second polypeptide chain comprises the amino acid sequence of amino acids 27 to 246 of SEQ ID NO: 4, or an amino acid sequence having at least 90% identity to the amino acid sequence of amino acids 27 to 246 of SEQ ID NO: 4.

The present disclosure also provides a composition or medical preparation comprising:

(i) an RNA comprising a coding region that encodes a first polypeptide chain comprising a heavy chain of an antibody agent that binds to Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2), and

(ii) an RNA comprising a coding region that encodes a second polypeptide chain comprising a light chain of an antibody agent that binds to Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2), wherein the first polypeptide chain comprises the amino acid sequence of amino acids 27 to 474 of SEQ ID NO: 3, or an amino acid sequence having at least 90% identity to the amino acid sequence of amino acids 27 to 474 of SEQ ID NO: 3, and the second polypeptide chain comprises the amino acid sequence of amino acids 27 to 246 of SEQ ID NO: 4, or an amino acid sequence having at least 90% identity to the amino acid sequence of amino acids 27 to 246 of SEQ ID NO: 4. In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 14 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 14 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 7 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 7 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 18 or 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 18 or 20.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a 3’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 22, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 22.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a 3’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 19 or 21, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 19 or 21.

The present disclosure also provides a composition or medical preparation comprising:

(i) an RNA comprising a coding region that encodes a first polypeptide chain comprising a heavy chain of an antibody agent that binds to Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2), and

(ii) an RNA comprising a coding region that encodes a second polypeptide chain comprising a light chain of an antibody agent that binds to Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2), wherein the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 18 or 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 18 or 20 and/or a 3’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 19 or 21, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 19 or 21.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 18 or 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 18 or 20 and a 3’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 19 or 21, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 19 or 21. In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 18, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 18 and a 3’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 19, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 19.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20 and a 3’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 21 , or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 21.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 18, and a 3’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 19.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20, and a 3’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 21.

In some embodiments,

(a) the coding region under (i) comprises the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 79 to 1422 of SEQ ID NO: 16, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 79 to 1422 of SEQ ID NO: 16, and the coding region under (ii) comprises the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 79 to 738 of SEQ ID NO: 17, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 79 to 738 of SEQ ID NO: 17, and/or

(b) the first polypeptide chain comprises the amino acid sequence of amino acids 27 to 474 of SEQ ID NO: 3, or an amino acid sequence having at least 90% identity to the amino acid sequence of amino acids 27 to 474 of SEQ ID NO: 3, and the second polypeptide chain comprises the amino acid sequence of amino acids 27 to 246 of SEQ ID NO: 4, or an amino acid sequence having at least 90% identity to the amino acid sequence of amino acids 27 to 246 of SEQ ID NO: 4.

In some embodiments, the coding region under (i) comprises the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 16, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 16, and the coding region under (ii) comprises the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 17, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 17. In some embodiments, the first polypeptide chain comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3, or an amino acid sequence having at least 90% identity to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3, and the second polypeptide chain comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4, or an amino acid sequence having at least 90% identity to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4.

In some embodiments, the RNA under (i) is a first RNA molecule and the RNA under (ii) is a second RNA molecule.

In some embodiments, at least 90% is at least 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%.

In some embodiments, the antibody agent binds preferentially to CLDN-18.2 relative to Claudin-

18.1 (CLDN-18.1).

In some embodiments, the antibody agent binds to a first extracellular domain (ECD1) of CLDN-18.2.

In some embodiments, the antibody agent binds to an epitope of ECD 1 of CLDN-18.2 that is exposed in cancer cells.

In some embodiments, the antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2 comprises two binding arms wherein each binding arm comprises a heavy chain of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-

18.2 and a light chain of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2.

In some embodiments, the antibody agent is IgGl .

In some embodiments, the IgGl is human IgGl.

In some embodiments, the first polypeptide chain interacts with the second polypeptide chain to form a binding domain that binds to CLDN-18.2.

In some embodiments, the first polypeptide chain comprises a variable domain of a heavy chain (VH) of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2 (VH(CLDN-18.2)).

In some embodiments, the VH(CLDN-18.2) comprises CDR1, CDR2 and CDR3 of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 14. In some embodiments, the VH(CLDN-18.2) comprises CDR1 , CDR2 and CDR3 comprising the sequences as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 5, 6, and 7, respectively.

In some embodiments, the second polypeptide chain comprises a variable domain of a light chain (VL) of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2 (VL(CLDN-18.2)).

In some embodiments, the VL(CLDN-18.2) comprises CDR1, CDR2 and CDR3 of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 15.

In some embodiments, the VL(CLDN-18.2) comprises CDR1, CDR2 and CDR3 comprising the sequences as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 8, 9, and 10, respectively.

In some embodiments, the first polypeptide chain comprises a variable domain of a heavy chain (VH) of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2 (VH(CLDN-18.2)) comprising CDR1 , CDR2 and CDR3 of the amino acid sequence SEQ ID NO: 14, and the the second polypeptide chain comprises a variable domain of a light chain (VL) of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2 (VL(CLDN-18.2)) comprising CDR1 , CDR2 and CDR3 of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 15.

In some embodiments, the first polypeptide chain comprises a variable domain of a heavy chain (VH) of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2 (VH(CLDN-18.2)) comprising CDR1, CDR2 and CDR3 comprising the sequences as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 5, 6, and 7, respectively, and the the second polypeptide chain comprises a variable domain of a light chain (VL) of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2 (VL(CLDN-18.2)) comprising CDR1, CDR2 and CDR3 comprising the sequences as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 8, 9, and 10, respectively.

In some embodiments, the first polypeptide chain comprises a variable domain of a heavy chain (VH) of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2 (VH(CLDN-18.2)) comprising the amino acid sequence SEQ ID NO: 14, and the the second polypeptide chain comprises a variable domain of a light chain (VL) of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2 (VL(CLDN-18.2)) comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 15.

In some embodiments, the first polypeptide chain comprises a variable domain of a heavy chain (VH) of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2 (VH(CLDN-18.2)), and the the second polypeptide chain comprises a variable domain of a light chain (VL) of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2 (VL(CLDN-18.2)), wherein the VH(CLDN-18.2) and the VL(CLDN-18.2) interact to form a binding domain that binds to Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2). In some embodiments, the first polypeptide chain comprises a variable domain of a heavy chain (VH) of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2 (VH(CLDN-18.2)), a constant domain 1 of a heavy chain (CHI) of an antibody agent, a constant domain 2 of a heavy chain (CH2) of an antibody agent, and a constant domain 3 of a heavy chain (CH3) of an antibody agent.

In some embodiments, the VH(CLDN-18.2), CHI, CH2 and CH3 are present in the first polypeptide chain in an immunoglobulin G (IgG) form.

In some embodiments, the second polypeptide chain comprises a variable domain of a light chain (VL) of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2 (VL(CLDN-18.2)), and a constant domain of a light chain (CL) of an antibody agent.

In some embodiments, the VL(CLDN-18.2) and the CL are present in the second polypeptide chain in an IgG form.

In some embodiments, the CHI on the first polypeptide chain interacts with the CL on the second polypeptide chain.

In some embodiments, the first polypeptide chain and the second polypeptide chain each independently comprise a secretion signal, wherein the secretion signal is preferably located at the N-terminus of the first polypeptide chain and the second polypeptide chain.

In some embodiments, the secretion signal of the first polypeptide chain and/or the second polypeptide chain comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 13.

In some embodiments, the coding region under (i) comprises the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 16, and the coding region under (ii) comprises the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 17. In some embodiments, the first polypeptide chain comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3, and the second polypeptide chain comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4. In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a poly-A sequence.

In some embodiments, the poly-A sequence is an interrupted sequence of A nucleotides.

In some embodiments, the poly-A sequence comprises at least 100 nucleotides.

In some embodiments, the poly-A sequence comprises or consists of the nucleotide sequence A _x - L- A _y , wherein A _x is a sequence of at least 20 A nucleotides, A _y is a sequence of at least 60 A nucleotides and L is a linker of 1 to 20 nucleotides which may include nucleotides other than A. In some embodiments, the poly-A sequence comprises or consists of the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 23.

In some embodiments, the composition or medical preparation comprises: (i) an RNA comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 24 or 26, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 24 or 26, and

(ii) an RNA comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 25 or 27, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 25 or 27.

In some embodiments, the composition or medical preparation comprises:

(i) an RNA comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 24, and

(ii) an RNA comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 25.

In some embodiments, the composition or medical preparation comprises:

(i) an RNA comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 26, and

(ii) an RNA comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 27.

The present disclosure also provides a composition or medical preparation comprising:

(i) an RNA comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 24 or 26, and

(ii) an RNA comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 25 or 27.

The present disclosure also provides a composition or medical preparation comprising:

(i) an RNA comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 24, and

(ii) an RNA comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 25.

The present disclosure also provides a composition or medical preparation comprising:

(i) an RNA comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 26, and

(ii) an RNA comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 27.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a modified nucleoside in place of uridine.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a modified nucleoside in place of each uridine.

In some embodiments, the modified nucleoside is pseudouridine (y) and/or N1 -methylpseudouridine (mly).

In some embodiments, the modified nucleoside is N1 -methyl -pseudouridine (mly).

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a 5’ cap.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises the 5’ cap m2 ^{7 3 _} °Gppp( r ’ ⁰ )ApG. In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, is single- stranded RNA.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, is mRNA. In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, is formulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNP), e.g., each RNA is co-formulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNP).

In some embodiments, lipids that form the lipid nanoparticles comprise a cationic lipid, a polymer-conjugated lipid; and a neutral lipid.

In some embodiments, a. the cationic lipid is present in 35-65 mol% of the total lipids; b. the polymer-conjugated lipid is present in about 1-2.5 mol% of the total lipids; and c. the neutral lipid is present in 35-65 mol% of the total lipids.

In some embodiments, the cationic lipid is ((3-hydroxypropyl)azanediyl)bis(nonane-9,l-diyl) bis(2-butyloctanoate).

In some embodiments, the polymer-conjugated lipid is a PEG-conjugated lipid (e.g., 2- [(polyethylene glycol)-2000]-N,N-ditetradecylacetamide).

In some embodiments, the neutral lipid comprises l,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPSC) and/or cholesterol.

In some embodiments, the lipid nanoparticles have an average size of about 50-150 nm.

In some embodiments, the lipid nanoparticles comprise ((3- hydroxypropyl)azanediyl)bis(nonane-9, 1 -diyl)bis(2 -butyloctanoate), 2-[(polyethylene glycol)- 2000]-N,N-ditetradecylacetamide, l,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine, and cholesterol. In some embodiments, the composition is a pharmaceutical composition.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition further comprises one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, diluents and/or excipients.

In some embodiments, the medical preparation is a kit.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, and optionally the particle forming components are in separate vials.

In some embodiments, the medical preparation further comprises instructions for use of the composition or medical preparation for treating or preventing cancer.

The present disclosure also provides the composition or medical preparation described herein for pharmaceutical use.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical use comprises a therapeutic or prophylactic treatment of a disease or disorder. In some embodiments, the therapeutic or prophylactic treatment of a disease or disorder comprises treating or preventing cancer.

In some embodiments, the cancer comprises a CLDN-18.2-positive cancer.

In some embodiments, the cancer comprises a CLDN-18.2-positive solid tumor.

In some embodiments, the cancer comprises a CLDN-18.2-positive pancreatic cancer.

In some embodiments, the cancer comprises a CLDN-18.2-positive gastric cancer.

In some embodiments, the cancer comprises a CLDN-18.2-positive biliary tract tumor.

In some embodiments, the cancer comprises a CLDN-18.2-positive locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic cancer.

In some embodiments, the therapeutic or prophylactic treatment of a disease or disorder further comprises administering a further therapy.

In some embodiments, the further therapy comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of: (i) surgery to excise, resect, or debulk a tumor, (ii) radiotherapy, and (iii) chemotherapy.

In some embodiments, the further therapy comprises administering a further therapeutic agent. In some embodiments, the further therapeutic agent comprises an anti-cancer therapeutic agent. In some embodiments, the composition or medical preparation described herein is for administration to a human.

In some embodiments, the composition or medical preparation described herein is for intravenous administration.

The present disclosure also provides a method of treating cancer in a subject comprising administering to the subject the composition described herein.

In some embodiments, the cancer comprises a CLDN-18.2-positive cancer.

In some embodiments, the cancer comprises a CLDN-18.2-positive solid tumor.

In some embodiments, the cancer comprises a CLDN-18.2-positive pancreatic cancer.

In some embodiments, the cancer comprises a CLDN-18.2-positive gastric cancer.

In some embodiments, the cancer comprises a CLDN-18.2-positive biliary tract tumor.

In some embodiments, the cancer comprises a CLDN-18.2-positive locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic cancer.

In some embodiments, the method described herein further comprises administering a further therapy. In some embodiments, the further therapy comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of: (i) surgery to excise, resect, or debulk a tumor, (ii) radiotherapy, and (iii) chemotherapy.

In some embodiments, the further therapy comprises administering a further therapeutic agent. In some embodiments, the further therapeutic agent comprises an anti-cancer therapeutic agent. In some embodiments, the subject is a human.

In some embodiments, the composition is administered intravenously.

The present disclosure also provides the composition described herein for use in a method described herein.

In some embodiments, upon expression of the polypeptide chains of the antibody agent that binds to Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2) the polypeptide chains are secreted into the bloodstream as fully assembled antibodies and/or as functional antibodies. A fully assembled antibody is a tetramer composed of two identical pairs of polypeptide chains, each pair having one light chain and one heavy chain of an antibody agent that binds to Claudin- 18.2 (CLDN- 18.2). A functional antibody is an antibody that has the expected biological activity of the antibody, such as binding to its target and/or recruitment and/or stimulation of the immune system, for example ADCC, e.g., to the same or a similar level as a corresponding antibody expressed in vitro.

In some embodiments, the composition or medical preparation described herein is for introducing the RNA into liver cells and expressing the polypeptide chains encoded by the RNA in liver cells.

In some embodiments, the composition or medical preparation described herein is for systemic delivery of the polypeptide chains.

In some embodiments, the composition or medical preparation described herein is for systemic delivery of the polypeptide chains following expression of the polypeptide chains in liver cells. The present disclosure also provides a method for expressing an antibody agent that binds to Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2) in a subject, said method comprising:

(a) administering a composition described herein such that the RNA is introduced into liver cells; and

(b) expressing the polypeptide chains encoded by the RNA in the liver cells.

The present disclosure also provides a method for expressing an antibody agent that binds to Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2) in a subject, said method comprising: (a) administering a composition described herein such that the RNA is introduced into liver cells; and

(b) expressing the polypeptide chains encoded by the RNA in the liver cells, wherein, following expression, the polypeptide chains are secreted into the bloodstream.

The present disclosure also provides a method for systemic delivery of an antibody agent that binds to Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2) in a subject, said method comprising:

(a) administering a composition described herein such that the RNA is introduced into liver cells; and

(b) expressing the polypeptide chains encoded by the RNA in the liver cells, wherein, following expression, the polypeptide chains are secreted into the bloodstream.

In some embodiments, administration is parenteral administration.

In some embodiments, administration is intravenous administration.

160] The present disclosure, among other things, also provides the following items:

1. A pharmaceutical composition comprising: a. at least one single- stranded RNA comprising one or more coding regions that encode an antibody agent that binds preferentially to a Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2) polypeptide relative to a Claudin-18.1 polypeptide; and b. lipid nanoparticles; wherein the at least one single-stranded RNA is encapsulated within at least one of the lipid nanoparticles.

2. The pharmaceutical composition of item 1, wherein the antibody agent specifically binds to a first extracellular domain (ECD1) of a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide.

3. The pharmaceutical composition of item 2, wherein the antibody agent specifically binds to an epitope of ECD 1 that is exposed in cancer cells.

4. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 1-3, wherein the antibody agent is or comprises an antibody or an antigen binding fragment thereof.

5. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 1-4, wherein the at least one singlestranded RNA encodes both of: a variable heavy chain (VH) domain of the antibody agent; and a variable light chain (VL) domain of the antibody agent. The pharmaceutical composition of item 5, wherein the at least one single-stranded RNA is a first single-stranded RNA comprising a heavy chain-coding region that encodes at least a VH domain of the antibody agent; and a. wherein the first single-stranded RNA further comprises a light chain-coding region that encodes at least a VL domain of the antibody agent; or b. wherein the pharmaceutical composition further comprises a second singlestranded RNA comprising a light chain-coding region that encodes at least a VL domain of the antibody agent. The pharmaceutical composition of item 6, wherein the heavy chain-coding region further encodes a constant heavy chain (CH) domain; and/or the light chain-coding region further encodes a constant light chain (CL) domain. The pharmaceutical composition of item 6, wherein the heavy chain-coding region encodes a VH domain, a CHI domain, aCn2 domain, and a CH3 domain of the antibody agent in an immunoglobulin G (IgG) form; and/or the light chain-coding region encodes a VL domain and a CL domain of the antibody agent in an IgG form. The pharmaceutical composition of item 8, wherein the IgG is IgGl. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 6-9, wherein the heavy chain-coding region consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a full-length heavy chain of Zolbetuximab or Claudiximab. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 6-9, wherein the light chain-coding region consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a full-length light chain of Zolbetuximab or Claudiximab. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 6-11, wherein the first single- stranded and/or the second single- stranded RNA each independently comprise a secretion signalencoding region. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 6-12, wherein the first single-stranded and/or the second single- stranded RNA each independently comprise at least one non-coding sequence element (e.g., to enhance RNA stability and/or translation efficiency). The pharmaceutical composition of item 13, wherein the at least one non-coding sequence element comprises a 3’ untranslated region (UTR), a 5’ UTR, a cap structure for co- transcriptional capping of mRNA, and/or a poly adenine (polyA) tail. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 6-14, wherein the first single-stranded RNA comprises, in a 5’ to 3’ direction: a. a 5’UTR-coding region; b. a secretion signal-coding region; c. the heavy chain-coding region; d. a 3’ UTR-coding region; and e. a polyA tail-coding region. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 6-15, wherein the second singlestranded RNA comprises, in a 5’ to 3’ direction: a. a 5’UTR-coding region; b. a secretion signal-coding region; c. the light chain-coding region; d. a 3’ UTR-coding region; and e. a polyA tail-coding region. The pharmaceutical composition of item 14 or 15, wherein the polyA tail is or comprises a modified polyA sequence. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 6-16, wherein the first single-stranded and/or the second single-stranded RNA comprises a 5’ cap. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 6-18, wherein the first single- stranded and/or the second single-stranded RNA comprises at least one modified ribonucleotide. The pharmaceutical composition of item 19, wherein the modified ribonucleotide comprises pseudouridine. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 6-20, wherein the at least one singlestranded RNA comprises the first single-stranded RNA and the second single-stranded RNA. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 6-21, wherein the first single-stranded RNA and the second single-stranded RNA are present in a weight ratio of 3 : 1 to 1 :1. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 1-22, wherein the lipid nanoparticles are liver-targeting lipid nanoparticles. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 1-23, wherein the lipid nanoparticles are cationic lipid nanoparticles. The pharmaceutical composition of item 24, wherein lipids that form the lipid nanoparticles comprise:

- a polymer-conjugated lipid;

- a cationic lipid; and

- a neutral lipid. The pharmaceutical composition of item 25, wherein: a. the polymer-conjugated lipid is present in about 1-2.5 mol% of the total lipids; b. the cationic lipid is present in 35-65 mol% of the total lipids; and c. the neutral lipid is present in 35-65 mol% of the total lipids. The pharmaceutical composition of item 25 or 26, wherein the polymer-conjugated lipid is a PEG-conjugated lipid e.g., 2-[(polyethylene glycol)-2000]-N,N-ditetradecylacetamide). The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 25-27, wherein the cationic lipid is ((3- hydroxypropyl)azanediyl)bis(nonane-9,l-diyl) bis(2 -butyloctanoate). The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 25-28, wherein the neutral lipid comprises 1 ,2-Distearoyl-sn-glycero-3 -phosphocholine (DPSC) and/or cholesterol. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 1-29, wherein the lipid nanoparticles have an average size of about 50-150 nm. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 1-30, further comprising a cryoprotectant (e.g., sucrose). The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 1-31, comprising an aqueous buffered solution. The pharmaceutical composition of item 32, wherein the aqueous buffered solution includes sodium ions. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 1 -33, further comprising a chemotherapeutic agent. The pharmaceutical composition of item 34, wherein the chemotherapeutic agent is a chemotherapeutic agent indicated for treatment of pancreatic cancer. The pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 1-35, wherein the at least one singlestranded RNA is present at a concentration of 0.5 mg/mL to 1.5 mg/mL. A method comprising administering a pharmaceutical composition of any one of item 1-36 to a subject suffering from a CLDN-18.2-positive solid tumor. The method of item 37, wherein the CLDN- 18.2-positive tumor is a pancreatic tumor. The method of item 37, wherein the CLDN- 18.2-positive tumor is a gastric tumor. The method of item 37, wherein the CLDN- 18.2-positive tumor is a biliary tract tumor. The method of any one of items 37-40, wherein the CLDN-18.2-positive solid tumor is locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic. The method of any one of items 37-41, wherein the subject has received a pre-treatment sufficient to increase CLDN-18.2 level such that a solid tumor from which the subject is suffering is characterized as a CLDN-18.2-positive solid tumor. The method of any one of items 37-42, wherein the CLDN-18.2-positive tumor is characterized in that > 50% of tumor cells show > 2+ CLDN-18.2 protein staining intensity as assessed by an immunohistochemistry assay in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded neoplastic tissue from the subject. The method of any one of items 37-43, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is administered as monotherapy. The method of any one of items 37-44, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is administered as part of combination therapy comprising the pharmaceutical composition and a chemotherapeutic agent. The method of any one of items 37-45, wherein the subject has received the chemotherapeutic agent. The method of item 45, further comprising administering to the subject the chemotherapeutic agent such that the subject is receiving the combination therapy. The method of item 47, wherein the chemotherapeutic agent is administered at least four hours after the administration of the pharmaceutical composition. The method of any one of items 45-48, wherein the chemotherapeutic agent is or comprises gemcitabine and/or paclitaxel (e.g., nab-paclitaxel) for a subject suffering from a CLDN-

18.2-positive pancreatic tumor. The method of any one of items 45-48, wherein the chemotherapeutic agent is or comprises FOLFIRINOX for a subject suffering from a CLDN- 18.2-positive pancreatic tumor. The method of any one of items 45-48, wherein the chemotherapeutic agent is or comprises gemcitabine and/or cisplatin for a subject suffering from a CLDN-18.2-positive biliary tract cancer. 52. The method of any one of items 37-51, wherein the subject is an adult subject.

53. The method of any one of items 37-52, wherein the administering is performed by intravenous injection.

54. The method of any one of items 37-53, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is administered in at least one, at least two, at least three or more dosing cycles.

55. The method of item 54, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is administered as one or more doses per dosing cycle.

56. The method of item 55, wherein each dosing cycle is a three-week dosing cycle.

57. The method of item 55 or 56, wherein the one or more doses comprise the at least one singlestranded RNA within a range of 0.1 mg/kg to 5 mg/kg body weight of the subject.

58. In a method of delivering a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody for cancer treatment in a subject, the improvement comprising administering to the subject the pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 1-36.

59. A method of producing a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody comprising administering to cells the pharmaceutical composition of any one of items 1-35 so that the cells express and secrete the CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody encoded by the at least one single-stranded RNA of the pharmaceutical composition.

60. The method of item 59, wherein the cells are liver cells.

61. The method of item 59 or 60, wherein the cells are in a subject.

62. The method of item 61, wherein the CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody is produced at a therapeutically relevant plasma concentration.

63. The method of item 62, wherein the therapeutically relevant plasma concentration is sufficient to mediate cancer cell death through antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC).

64. The method of item 63, wherein the therapeutically relevant plasma concentration is 0.3-

28 μg/mL.

65. A method comprising a step of: determining one or more features of an antibody agent expressed from at least one mRNA introduced into cells, wherein the at least one mRNA comprises one or more of features of at least one or more single- stranded RNA comprising a coding region that encodes an antibody agent that binds preferentially to a Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2) polypeptide relative to a Claudin- 18.1 polypeptide, wherein the one or more features comprises: (i) protein expression level of the antibody agent; (ii) binding specificity of the antibody agent to CLDN-18.2; (iii) efficacy of the antibody agent to mediate target cell death through ADCC; and (iv) efficacy of the antibody agent to mediate target cell death through complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC).

66. A method of characterizing a pharmaceutical composition targeting CLDN-18.2, the method comprising steps of: contacting cells with at least one pharmaceutical composition as set forth in any one of items 1-35; and detecting the antibody agent produced by the cells.

67. The method of item 66, further comprising determining one or more features of the antibody agent, wherein the one or more features comprises: (i) protein expression level of the antibody agent; (ii) binding specificity of the antibody agent to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide;

(iii) efficacy of the antibody agent to mediate target cell death through ADCC; and (iv) efficacy of the antibody agent to mediate target cell death through complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC).

68. The method of any one of items 65-67, wherein the cells are liver cells.

69. The method of item 65 or 67, wherein the step of determining comprises comparing the one or more features of the antibody agent with that of a reference CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody. 0. The method of any one of items 65 and 67-69, wherein the step of determining comprises assessing the protein expression level of the antibody agent above a threshold level.

71. The method of item 70, wherein the threshold level is a level that is sufficient to induce ADCC. 2. The method of any one of items 65 and 67-71 , wherein the step of determining comprises assessing binding of the antibody agent to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide. 3. The method of item 72, wherein the assessing comprises determining binding of the antibody agent to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide relative to its binding to a CLDN18.1 polypeptide. 4. The method of item 72 or 73, wherein the assessing comprises determining a binding preference profile of the antibody agent at least comparable to that of a reference CLDN- 18.2-targeting antibody. The method of item 69 or 74, wherein the reference CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody is Zolbetuximab or Claudiximab. The method of any one of items 65-75, further characterizing the antibody agent as a CLDN- 18.2-targeting antibody agent if the antibody agent comprises the following features: a. protein level of the antibody agent expressed by the cells above a threshold level that is sufficient to induce ADCC; b. preferential binding of the antibody agent to CLDN- 18.2 relative to CLDN 18.1; and c. killing of at least 50% target cells mediated by ADCC and/or CDC. The method of item 76, further characterizing the antibody agent as a Zolbetuximab or Claudiximab-equivalent antibody if the features of the antibody are at least comparable to that of Zolbetuximab or Claudiximab. The method of any one of items 65-77, wherein the target cells are cancer cells. The method of any one of items 65 and 66-78, wherein the step of determining comprises determining whether, when assessed 48 hours after the contacting, the cells express an anti- CLDN18-2 antibody agent encoded by the at least one single-stranded RNA. The method of any one of items 65 and 66-79, wherein the step of determining comprises determining one or more of the following features:

- whether the antibody agent expressed by the cells binds preferentially to a CLDN- 18.2 polypeptide relative to a CLDN18.1 polypeptide;

- whether the antibody agent expressed by the cells exhibit comparable target specificity to CLDN- 18.2 as observed in a flow cytometric binding assay with a reference CLDN- 18.2- targeting monoclonal antibody;

- whether, when assessed 48 hours after incubating immune effector cells (e.g., PBMC cells) and CLDN-18.2 positive cells or CLDN-18.2 negative control cells in the presence of the antibody agent, the CLDN-18.2 positive cells, not the control cells, were lysed;

- whether the antibody agent expressed by the cells exhibit at least comparable ADCC profile of targeted CLDN-18.2 positive cells as observed with a reference CLDN-18.2- targeting monoclonal antibody in the same concentration; and - whether, when assessed 2 hours after incubating CLDN-18.2 positive cells or CLDN-18.2 negative control cells with human serum in the presence of the antibody agent, the CLDN- 18.2 positive cells, not the control cells, were lysed. The method of any one of items 66-80, wherein the cells are present in a subject (e.g., a mouse or monkey subject). The method of item 81, wherein the one or more features include antibody level in one or more tissues in the subject. The method of any one of items 66-82, further comprising: administering the pharmaceutical composition to a group of animal subjects each bearing a huma CLDN-18.2 positive xenograft tumor to determine anti-tumor activity if the pharmaceutical composition is characterized as CLDN-18.2-targeting. A method of manufacture, the method comprising steps of:

(A) determining one or more features of a single stranded RNA (ssRNA) or composition thereof, which ssRNA encodes part or all of an antibody agent, which one or more features are selected from the group consisting of:

(i) length and/or sequence of the ssRNA;

(ii) integrity of the ssRNA;

(iii) presence and/or location of one or more chemical moieties of the ssRNA;

(iv) extent of expression of the antibody agent when the ssRNA is introduced into a cell;

(v) stability of the ssRNA or composition thereof;

(vi) level of antibody agent in a biological sample from an organism into which the ssRNA has been introduced;

(vii) binding specificity of the antibody agent expressed from the ssRNA, optionally to CLDN-18.2 and optionally relative to CLDN18.1;

(viii) efficacy of the antibody agent to mediate target cell death through ADCC;

(ix) efficacy of the antibody agent to mediate target cell death through complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC);

(x) lipid identity and amount/concentration within the composition;

(xi) size of lipid nanoparticles within the composition;

(xii) polydispersity of lipid nanoparticles within the composition; (xiii) amount/concentration of the ssRNA within the composition;

(xiv) extent of encapsulation of the ssRNA within lipid nanoparticles; and

(xv) combinations thereof;

(B) comparing the one or more features of the ssRNA or composition thereof with that of an appropriate reference standard; and

(C) (i) designating the ssRNA or composition thereof for one or more further steps of manufacturing and/or distribution if the comparison demonstrates that the ssRNA or composition thereof meets or exceeds the reference standard; or

(ii) taking an alternative action if the comparison demonstrates that the ssRNA or composition thereof does not meet or exceed the reference standard. The method of item 84, wherein the ssRNA is assessed and the one or more further steps of step (C)(i) are or comprise at least formulation of the ssRNA. The method of item 84 or 85, wherein the composition is assessed and the composition comprises lipid nanoparticles and the one or more further steps of step (C)(i) are or comprise include release and distribution of the composition. The method of item 85, further comprising administering the formulation to a group of animal subjects each bearing a huma CLDN-18.2 positive xenograft tumor to determine antitumor activity. A method of determining a dosing regimen of a pharmaceutical composition targeting

CLDN-18.2-targeting, the method comprising steps of:

(A) administering a pharmaceutical composition set forth in any one of items 1-35 to a group of animal subjects each bearing a huma CLDN-18.2 positive xenograft tumor under a pre-determined dosing regimen;

(B) measuring tumor size of the animal subjects periodically;

(C) (i) increasing the dose and/or dosage frequency if reduction in tumor size after the administration of the pharmaceutical composition is not therapeutically relevant; or

(ii) decreasing the dose and/or dosage frequency if reduction in tumor size after the administration of the pharmaceutical composition is therapeutically relevant, and toxicity effect is shown in at least 30% of the animal subjects; or (iii) making no changes to the dosage regimen if reduction in tumor size after the administration of the pharmaceutical composition is therapeutically relevant, and no toxicity effect is shown in the animal subjects.

The present disclosure further provides an insight that the 3 ’end region of mRNA is a very sensitive and exceptional area in terms of translational capacity as well as functionality of mRNA. Both in vitro and in vivo results suggest that a single nucleotide substitution upstream of the poly(A) tail has an impact on translational capacity and functionality of mRNA.

Accordingly, the present disclosure, among other things, also provides a composition or medical preparation comprising RNA, wherein the RNA comprises:

(i) a coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide,

(ii) a 3’ UTR sequence,

(iii) a poly-A sequence, and

(iv) a nucleotide sequence linking the 3’ UTR sequence and the poly-A sequence comprising the sequence CUXGAGCUAGC, wherein X is C, A, or U.

In some embodiments, the nucleotide sequence linking the 3’ UTR sequence and the poly-A sequence comprises the sequence CUCGAGCUAGC.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises in the 5' — > 3' direction the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, the 3’ UTR sequence, the nucleotide sequence linking the 3’ UTR sequence and the poly-A sequence, and the poly-A sequence.

In some embodiments, the 3’ UTR sequence comprises the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 22, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 22.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 3’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 298 of SEQ ID NO: 36, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 298 of SEQ ID NO: 36.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 3’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 295 of SEQ ID NO: 37, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 295 of SEQ ID NO: 37.

In some embodiments, the poly-A sequence is an interrupted sequence of A nucleotides.

In some embodiments, the poly-A sequence comprises at least 100 nucleotides. In some embodiments, the poly-A sequence comprises or consists of the nucleotide sequence A _x - L-A _y , wherein A _x is a sequence of at least 20 A nucleotides, A _y is a sequence of at least 60 A nucleotides and L is a linker of 1 to 20 nucleotides which may include nucleotides other than A. In some embodiments, the poly-A sequence comprises or consists of the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 23, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 23.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 14 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 14 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 14 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 14 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20 which is preceded by a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence AGX1X2X3X4AACUAGU, wherein XI is any nucleotide, preferably A or C, X2 is any nucleotide, preferably A or C, X3 is any nucleotide, preferably C, U or G, and X4 is A or is missing.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 14 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 14 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20 which is preceded by a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence AGX1AX3AAACUAGU, wherein XI is any nucleotide, preferably A or C, and X3 is any nucleotide, preferably C or U.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 14 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 14 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20 which is preceded by a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence AGAAUAAACUAGU.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 14 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 14 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20 which is preceded by a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence AGCACAAACUAGU.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 7 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 7 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20. In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 38, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 38.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 7 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 7 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20 and, downstream of the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 298 of SEQ ID NO: 36, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 298 of SEQ ID NO: 36, and a poly-A sequence.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20 and, downstream of the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 298 of SEQ ID NO: 36, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 298 of SEQ ID NO: 36, and a poly-A sequence.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20 and, downstream of the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 36, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 36.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 38, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 38 and, downstream of the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 298 of SEQ ID NO: 36, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 298 of SEQ ID NO: 36, and a poly-A sequence.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 38, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 38 and, downstream of the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 36, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 36.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 7 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20 and, downstream of the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 298 of SEQ ID NO: 36, and a poly-A sequence.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20 and, downstream of the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 298 of SEQ ID NO: 36, and a poly-A sequence.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20 and, downstream of the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 36.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 38 and, downstream of the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 298 of SEQ ID NO: 36, and a poly-A sequence.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 38 and, downstream of the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 36.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 7 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 7 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20 and, downstream of the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 295 of SEQ ID NO: 37, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 295 of SEQ ID NO: 37, and a poly-A sequence. In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20 and, downstream of the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 295 of SEQ ID NO: 37, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 295 of SEQ ID NO: 37, and a poly-A sequence.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20 and, downstream of the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 37, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 37.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 7 to 53 of SEQ ID NO: 20 and, downstream of the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 295 of SEQ ID NO: 37, and a poly-A sequence.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20 and, downstream of the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence of nucleotides 1 to 295 of SEQ ID NO: 37, and a poly-A sequence.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises a 5’ UTR comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20 and, downstream of the coding sequence that encodes a polypeptide, a sequence comprising the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 37.

In some embodiments, at least 90% is at least 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99%.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises two or more coding sequences encoding two or more polypeptides.

In some embodiments, the polypeptide encoded by the coding sequence is an antibody or a polypeptide chain thereof, for example, an antibody binding to CLDN-18.2 or a polypeptide chain thereof. In some embodiments, an antibody binding to CLDN-18.2 or a polypeptide chain thereof is as described herein. The polypeptide encoded by the coding sequence may, however, be any polypeptide, including, but not limited to, pharmaceutically active polypeptides and peptides, in particular those described herein.

In some embodiments, the RNA does not encode a polypeptide which binds to Claudin-6 (CLDN-6) and/or CD3.

In some embodiments, the RNA does not encode one or more polypeptide chains of a binding agent which binds to Claudin-6 (CLDN-6) and/or CD3. In some embodiments, the RNA does not encode a cytokine.

In some embodiments, the RNA does not encode IL2 and/or IL7.

In some embodiments, the RNA does not encode a polypeptide which binds to HIV.

In some embodiments, the RNA does not encode one or more polypeptide chains of a binding agent which binds to HIV.

In some embodiments, the RNA does not encode a polypeptide which binds to Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2).

In some embodiments, the RNA does not encode one or more polypeptide chains of a binding agent which binds to Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2).

In some embodiments, the RNA encodes an antibody or an antibody-like molecule.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises at least two, e.g., two, RNA molecules and at least one, e.g., all, of the RNA molecules comprise a 5’ UTR, a 3’ UTR, a 3’ UTR sequence, a poly-A sequence, and/or a nucleotide sequence linking a 3’ UTR sequence and a poly-A sequence as defined.

In some embodiments, the RNA comprises:

(i) an RNA comprising a coding sequence that encodes a first polypeptide chain comprising a heavy chain of an antibody agent, and

(ii) an RNA comprising a coding sequence that encodes a second polypeptide chain comprising a light chain of an antibody agent.

In some embodiments, the RNA under (i) is a first RNA molecule and the RNA under (ii) is a second RNA molecule.

In some embodiments, the antibody agent binds to Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2).

In some embodiments, the antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2 is as described herein. In some embodiments, the coding sequence that encodes a first polypeptide chain comprising a heavy chain of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2, and the coding sequence that encodes a second polypeptide chain comprising a light chain of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2 are as described herein. In some embodiments, the first polypeptide chain comprising a heavy chain of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2, and the second polypeptide chain comprising a light chain of an antibody agent that binds to CLDN-18.2 are as described herein. In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a modified nucleoside in place of uridine.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a modified nucleoside in place of each uridine.

In some embodiments, the modified nucleoside is pseudouridine (ψ ) and/or N1 -methyl - pseudouridine (m 1 ψ ).

In some embodiments, the modified nucleoside is Nl-methyl-pseudouridine (m1 ).

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises a 5’ cap.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, comprises the 5’ cap m2 ⁷ ’ ³ ‘ ⁽⁾ Gppp(m1 ^{2 0,} )ApG.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, is single-stranded RNA.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, is mRNA.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, is formulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNP), e.g., each RNA is co-formulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNP).

In some embodiments, lipids that form the lipid nanoparticles comprise a cationic lipid, apolymer- conjugated lipid; and a neutral lipid.

In some embodiments: a. the cationic lipid is present in 35-65 mol% of the total lipids; a. the polymer-conjugated lipid is present in about 1 -2.5 mol% of the total lipids; and c. the neutral lipid is present in 35-65 mol% of the total lipids.

In some embodiments, the cationic lipid is ((3-hydroxypropyl)azanediyl)bis(nonane-9,l-diyl) bi s(2-butyloctano ate) .

In some embodiments, the polymer-conjugated lipid is a PEG-conjugated lipid (e.g., 2- [(polyethylene glycol)-2000]-N,N-ditetradecylacetamide).

In some embodiments, the neutral lipid comprises l ,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPSC) and/or cholesterol.

In some embodiments, the lipid nanoparticles have an average size of about 50-150 nm.

In some embodiments, the lipid nanoparticles comprise ((3-hydroxypropyl)azanediyl)bis(nonane-

9, l-diyl)bis(2 -butyloctanoate), 2-[(polyethylene glycol)-2000]-N,N-ditetradecylacetamide, 1,2- distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine, and cholesterol.

In some embodiments, the composition is a pharmaceutical composition. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition further comprises one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, diluents and/or excipients.

In some embodiments, the medical preparation is a kit.

In some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., each RNA, and optionally the particle forming components are in separate vials.

In some embodiments, the composition or medical preparation is for intravenous administration.

In some embodiments, the composition or medical preparation is for introducing the RNA into liver cells and expressing the polypeptide encoded by the RNA in liver cells.

In some embodiments, the composition or medical preparation is for systemic delivery of the polypeptide. In some embodiments, the composition or medical preparation is for systemic delivery of the polypeptide following expression of the polypeptide in liver cells.

The present disclosure, among other things, also provides a method for expressing a polypeptide in a subject, said method comprising:

(a) administering a composition described above such that RNA encoding the polypeptide is introduced into liver cells; and

(b) expressing the polypeptide in the liver cells.

The present disclosure, among other things, also provides a method for expressing a polypeptide in a subject, said method comprising:

(a) administering a composition described above such that RNA encoding the polypeptide is introduced into liver cells; and

(b) expressing the polypeptide in the liver cells, wherein, following expression, the polypeptide is secreted into the bloodstream.

The present disclosure, among other things, also provides a method for systemic delivery of a polypeptide in a subject, said method comprising:

(a) administering a composition described above such that RNA encoding the polypeptide is introduced into liver cells; and

(b) expressing the polypeptide in the liver cells, wherein, following expression, the polypeptide is secreted into the bloodstream.

In some embodiments, administration is parenteral administration. In some embodiments, administration is intravenous administration. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[61] Figure 1 shows that a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody (RiboMabOl) encoded by two RNAs encoding a heavy chain and a light chain, respectively, of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody is expressed in primary human hepatocytes and CHO-K1 cells. (Panel A) Primary human hepatocytes were lipofected with 0.22-55.50 μg/mL a composition comprising two or more RNAs encoding heavy chain and light chain, respectively, of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody (RB RMAB01). (Left) ELISA analyses of RiboMabOl concentrations 48 hours post transfection. (Right) Western Blot analysis of cell culture supernatant from indicated lipofections. Recombinant purified IMAB362 served as reference for Western Blot analysis. Analysis was performed under non-reducing conditions and with HRP-conjugated anti-human antibodies. A mixture of Fcy-fragment specific and anti-kappa light chain specific antibodies was used for detection of full length IgG, free heavy (HC) and free light chains (LC). Supernatant of untransfected primary human hepatocytes served as mock control. (Panel B) CHO-K1 cells were lipofected with 2.00-182.00 ng/mL RB RMABOl . RiboMabOl concentration determined via ELISA 48 hours post transfection are shown. Error bars are standard errors of the mean (n=3).

[62] Figure 2 shows that RiboMabOl binds target specific to CLDN-18.2. Targeted binding of RiboMabOl to CLDN-18.2 was determined by flow cytometric binding assays visualized using a fluorescently labeled antibody directed against the F(ab')2 fragment of human IgG (H+L). A dilution row of RiboMabOl -containing CHO-K1 cell culture supernatant (Panels A and B, left) or IMAB362 reference protein (Panels A and B, right) was incubated with 5 x 10 ⁵ (Panel A) CLDN-18.2+ or (Panel B) CLDN18.1+ HEK293 transfectants.

[63] Figure 3 shows high target specific cell cytotoxicity mediated by in vitro expressed RiboMabOl. RiboMabOl -containing cell culture supernatant from CHO-K1 cells lipofected with RB RMABOl was subjected to (Panel A) ADCC and (Panel B) CDC assays. (Panel A) For ADCC assays, CLDN-18.2+ NUG-C4 transfectants served as target cells and CLDN-18.2-negative MDA-MB-231 cells as control cells. Human PBMCs of three different healthy donors were utilized as effector cells (E:T ratio 30:1). Target or control and effector cells were incubated for 48 hours with the indicated RiboMabOl and IMAB362 reference protein concentrations. Specific cell lysis as determined in a luciferase-based assay is shown. (Panel B) For CDC assays, CLDN- 18.2+ CH0-K1 transfectants (solid lines) served as target cells and CLDN- 18.2-negative CHO-K1 (dotted lines) as control cells. Target and control cells were incubated with human serum and RiboMabOl concentrations as indicated for 2 hours. CDC determined in a luciferase-based assay is shown. Error bars are standard errors of the mean (n=3).

[64] Figure 4 shows specific tumor cell lysis mediated by RiboMabOl generated in mice. Plasma of mice dosed with five repetitive injections of either 1 pg (-0.04 mg/kg), 3 pg (-0.10 mg/kg), 10 pg (-0.40 mg/kg) and 30 pg (-1.20 mg/kg) RB_RMAB01 or 80 pg (-3.20 mg/kg) of IMAB362 was sampled 24 hours post 5th injection and directed to luciferasebased ex vivo ADCC assays. Plasma of untreated mice spiked with IMAB362 served as assay reference. CLDN- 18.2+ NUG-C4 transfectants served as target and human PBMCs as effector cells. (Panel A) RiboMabOl mediated ADCC of NUG-C4 cells after 48 hours incubation with 1% of plasma is shown. (Panel B) No unspecific lysis on target-negative MDA-MB-231 cells. Error bars are standard errors of the mean (n=3).

[65] Figure 5 shows that RiboMabOl expressed by non-human primates mediates dose-dependent ADCC. Non-Human Primates (NHP) received three repetitive doses of 0.1, 0.4 or 1.6 mg/kg RB_RMAB01 once weekly. RiboMabOl -containing serum of all monkeys sampled 24 hours (black bars) and 168 hours (white bars) post 1st injection was directed to luciferasebased ex vivo ADCC assays. CLDN- 18.2+ NUG-C4 transfectants served as target cells. Human PBMCs from two different healthy donors (24 h, donor 1, 168 h, donor 2) served as effector cells. (Panel A) RiboMabOl -mediated ADCC of NUG-C4 cells after 48 hours incubation is shown. (Panel B) Unspecific lysis on target-negative MDA-MB-231 cells is shown. Error bars are standard error of the mean (n=3). (Panel C) Serum of NHP No. 14 (1.6 mg/kg

RB RMAB01, RiboMabOl serum concentration 232 μg/mL) collected 48 hours after the 3rd dosing was used for a luciferase-based ex vivo ADCC assays. CLDN-18.2+ NUG-C4 transfectants (solid lines) served as target cells, CLDN- 18.2-negative MDA-MB-231 cells (dotted lines) as control cells. Human PBMCs of a healthy donor served as effector cells. ADCC of NUG-C4 cells mediated by RiboMabOl -containing serum (solid red line) or by the recombinant - IMAB362 reference protein (solid black line) - with an EC50 of 66 pM and 151 pM respectively - is shown. Dotted red and black lines represent weak unspecific lysis on MDA- MB-231 control cells. Incubation time was 48 hours. Error bars are standard errors of the mean (n=3).

[66] Figure 6 shows that systemic availability of RiboMabOl mediates tumor growth inhibition in vivo. Mice bearing subcutaneous CLDN-18.2+ NCI-N87 xenograft tumors received IV injections of 1 gg (-0.04 mg/kg), 3 gg (-0.10 mg/kg), 10 gg (-0.40 mg/kg) and 30 μg (-1.20 mg/kg) RB RMABOl, 800 gg (-32 mg/kg) 1MAB362 reference protein, 30 μg

(-1.20 mg/kg) luciferase mRNA or saline only on test days 15, 22, 29, 36, 43 and 50 post tumor cell inoculation. Median tumor growth of treatment and control groups is shown. Dotted lines indicate injections. Significance was calculated by Two-way ANOVA. Ns indicates not significant.

[67] Figure 7 shows concentration-time profile of RiboMabOl in mouse serum after single dosing. Balb/cJRj mice received a single IV injection of 1 gg (-0.040 mg/kg), 3 gg (-0.10 mg/kg), 10 gg (-0.40 mg/kg) or 30 gg (-1.20 mg/kg) RB_RMAB01 drug product and 40 gg (-1.60 mg/kg) IMAB362 reference protein. Plasma was sampled 6, 24, 96, 168, 264, 336 and 504 hours post administration. RiboMabOl concentrations in plasma measured via ELISA are shown. Error bars are standard errors of the mean (n=3).

[68] Figure 8 shows concentration-time profile of RiboMabOl in rat serum after single dosing. RjHan: Wister rats received a single IV injection of 0.04, 0.10, 0.40 or 1 .20 mg/kg of RB RMABOl and 3.60 mg/kg of IMAB362 reference protein. Plasma was sampled 2, 6, 8, 10, 22, 24, 27, 30, 48, 72, 96, 168, 216, 264 and 336 hours post administration. RiboMabOl concentrations in plasma measured via ELISA are shown. Error bars are standard errors of the mean (n=3).

[69] Figure 9 shows kinetics of RB RMABOl expression in mice after weekly injection. Balb/cJRj mice received IV injections of 1 gg (-0.04 mg/kg), 3 gg (-0.10 mg/kg), 10 gg (-0.40 mg/kg) or 30 gg (-1.20 mg/kg) RB RMABOl and 80 gg (-3.20 mg/kg) IMAB362 reference protein at test days 1, 8, 15, 21 and 29. Plasma was sampled 24 hours pre- and 24 hours post-dosing. RiboMabOl concentrations in plasma measured via ELISA are shown. Dotted lines indicate injections. Error bars are standard errors of the mean (n=3).

[70] Figure 10 shows kinetics of RB RMABOl expression after repetitive dosing in NHP. NHP received IV injections of 0.1, 0.4 or 1.6 mg/kg RB RMABOl at test days 1, 8 and 15. Plasma was sampled 6, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 168 hours post 1st and 3rd dosing and 48, 72 and 168 hours post 2nd dosing as well as 264, 336 and 504 hours post 3rd dosing. RiboMabOl concentrations in plasma measured via ELISA are shown. Error bars are standard errors of the mean (n=3).

[71] Figure 11 shows liver targeting of LNP formulated mRNA in vivo. Mice received a single IV injection of LNP formulated firefly luciferase mRNA. Bioluminescence was monitored 6, 24, 48, 72 and 144 hours after administration. (Panel A) Bioluminescent images 6 hours post administration are shown for (left) individual mice in ventral position (n=5) and (right) single organs of mice #1 and 2. (Panel B) Quantification of luciferase signals (photons/second) is shown for all time points of analysis (n=5 or 3, mean). LN indicates lymph nodes.

[72] Figure 12 illustrates exemplary embodiments of RNA technology useful for encoding various antibody agent formats (“RiboMab”) and formulations thereof as well as its applications. (Panel A) The RiboMab® platform is applicable to provide RNA constructs encoding various antibody formats, including, e.g. , but not limited to monospecific antibody IgG, bispecific antibody bi-(scFv)2, and bispecific antibody Fab-(svFv)2. (Panel B) In some embodiments, therapeutic antibodies such as IgG can be encoded by purified mRNA comprising modified ribonucleotides (e.g., uridines replaced by pseudouridines) mRNA and encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles (mRNA/LNP). Such an mRNA construct may further comprise one or more non-coding sequence elements (e.g., to enhance RNA stability and/or translation efficiency). In some embodiments, exemplary non-coding sequence elements include but are not limited to a cap structure, 5’ UTR, 3’ UTR, a polyadenyl tail, and any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, lipid nanoparticles may comprises a conjugated lipid (e.g., PEG -conjugated lipid), a cationic lipid, and a neutral helper lipid. Such mRNA/LNP drug product formulation can be administered to a subject in vivo such that the mRNA is translated in vivo to express an antibody. (Panel C) The patient’s own body cells administered with mRNA/LNP drug product formulations described herein are capable to produce active drug encoded by mRNA (e.g., IgG RiboMab). For example, in some embodiments, upon IV injection, antibody-encoding mRNA/LNP are internalized and translated by liver cells, yielding systemic plasma concentrations of the biologically active RiboMab. Abbreviations: A30L70, Poly(A) tail, measuring 100 adenosines abrogated by a linker at position 30; bi, bispecific; C, C-terminus; CDS, coding sequence; CH, constant heavy domain; CL, constant light domain; Fab, antigen- binding fragment; IgG, immunoglobulin G; LNP, lipid nanoparticle; ml'P, 1- methylpseudouridine; N, N-terminus; scFv, single-chain variable fragment; TAA, tumor- associated antigen; UTR, untranslated region; VH, variable heavy domain; VL, variable light domain.

[73] Figure 13 is a schematic representation of exemplary RNA constructs encoding a heavy chain (HC) and a light chain (LC), respectively, of an antibody agent. As presented in Figure 13, such HC- and LC-encoding RNA constructs form an RNA composition (RB_RMAB01), which in some embodiments may be formulated into lipid nanoparticles to form a RNA/LNP drug product formulation. Abbreviations: Poly A, poly adenine tail; CH, constant heavy domain; CL, constant light domain; Sec, secretion signal; UTR, untranslated region; VH, variable heavy domain; VL, variable light domain

[74] Figure 14 is a graph showing dose-exposure correlation of RBJRMAB01 in cynomolgus monkey at t _max . Cynomolgus monkeys (n-3) received IV injections of 0.1, 0.4 or 1 .6 mg/kg RB RMAB01 . Dose-dependent RiboMabOl concentrations (mean, n=3) in plasma measured via ELISA at Cmax are depicted. A green line indicates a dose that can be administered to a human subject and its corresponding anticipated serum concentration.

[75] Figure 15 is an example electropherogram of an exemplary RNA mixture comprising a first RNA encoding a heavy chain (HC) of an antibody and a second RNA encoding a light chain (LC) of the antibody. The electropherogram depicts two peaks for LC and HC, respectively. A: area under the peak, h: height of the peak.

[76] Figure 16 shows anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab expression in vitro. HEK293T/17 cells were electroporated with mRNAs all encoding the anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab with the same backbone but with different coding sequences. Anti-CLD 18.2 RiboMab concentrations were measured 48 hours post transfection by ELISA. Error bars are standard errors of the mean (n=2).

[77] Figure 17 shows anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab exposure in mice after repeated RNA- LNP dosing. Balb/c.TRj mice received two weekly IV injections of 3 or 30 pg RNA-LNP each containing mRNAs separately encoding the HC and LC of the anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab, either in with Backbone A or Backbone B. Serum was sampled at the indicated timepoints post first administration. Arithmetic means (n = 3) and standard error of anti-CLDNl 8.2 RiboMab concentrations in serum measured via ELISA are shown. Limit of detection was 0.074 ng/mL. Downward-facing arrows correspond to first and second RNA-LNP injection. Luc-RNA-LNP served as negative control. ELISA = enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; Luc = luciferase.

[78] Figure 18 shows cytotoxic activity of anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab encoded by RNAs utilizing Backbone A and B. Shown is ex vivo ADCC mediated by the anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab in mouse serum collected 24 hours after RNA-LNP administration at the indicated doses. CLDN18.2-transduced NUGC-4 transfectants served as target cells and human PBMCs from a healthy donor as effector cells in an E:T ratio of 20:1 (upper panel). CLDN 18.2-negative MDA-MB-231 served as negative control (lower panel). Target and effector cells were incubated for 24 hours. Results of the control antibody are shown in the right panel. Data are means ± SD of three measurements per mouse. Ab = antibody; ADCC = Antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity; E:T-ratio = effector to target cell ratio;Ml= mouse number one;

PBMCs = Peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

[79] Figure 19 shows that EPO mRNA transcribed from Backbone C is superior to Backbone A but inferior to that derived from Backbone B / Backbone D cassette in vivo.

[80] Figure 20 shows a comparison of mRNA translation derived from Backbones B, C and D with different coding sequences and demonstrates that the differences in performance between Backbone C and Backbone B/D is independent of the coding sequence. A, Firefly Luciferase mRNAs in Backbones B (•), C(«) and D ( Δ) were electroporated two times (solid and dashed lines) in hiDCs. Bright-Glo assay was performed at the times indicated. B, eGFP mRNAs in Backbones C(«) and D ( ) were electroporated in hiDCs twice (solid and dashed lines). Cells were harvested and assayed with FACS for eGFP expression at the times indicated. C, primary human hepatocytes were lipofected with hIL-18 mRNAs in Backbones B (•), C(H) and D ( Δ). Supernatants from transfected cells were collected at the indicated times and assayed for the presence of hIL-18 with ELISA.

[81] Figure 21 shows the translation of Firefly Luciferase mRNAs derived from Backbones B and C containing different nucleotides at position -9 upstream of polyA in hiDCs and demonstrates that the 3‘ UTR end sequence impacts long-term translation in vitro. Firefly Luciferase mRNAs from Backbones B (panel A) and C (Panel B) having A( ), G(H), T( Δ) or C(®) at the position -9 upstream of polyA sequence were electroporated in hiDCs in two separate experiments and Luciferase expression was assayed at the indicated time points. [82] Figure 22 shows that the 3‘ UTR end sequence significantly impacts long-term translation in vivo using Backbone B.

[83] Figure 23 shows that the 3‘ UTR end sequence significantly impacts long-term translation in vivo using Backbone D

[84] Figure 24 shows that the 5’ sequence upstream of the coding sequence also impacts long-term translation in vivo.

[85] Figure 25 shows that the combination of the 5’ sequence elements and the 3’ sequence elements impacts long-term translation in vivo.

[86] Figure 26 shows that Backbone B performed significantly better that earlier backbone versions, Backbones A and G, in terms of long-term translation in vivo.

[87] Although the present disclosure is further described in more detail below, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the particular methodologies, protocols and reagents described herein as these may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure which will be limited only by the appended claims. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[88] In the following, the elements of the present disclosure will be described in more detail. These elements are listed with specific embodiments, however, it should be understood that they may be combined in any manner and in any number to create additional embodiments. The variously described examples and preferred embodiments should not be construed to limit the present disclosure to only the explicitly described embodiments. This description should be understood to support and encompass embodiments which combine the explicitly described embodiments with any number of the disclosed and/or preferred elements. Furthermore, any permutations and combinations of all described elements in this application should be considered disclosed by the description of the present application unless the context indicates otherwise.

[89] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., "such as"), provided herein is intended merely to better illustrate the present disclosure and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the present disclosure.

[90] Recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein.

[91] Several documents are cited throughout the text of this specification. Each of the documents cited herein (including all patents, patent applications, scientific publications, manufacturer's specifications, instructions, etc.), whether supra or infra, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the invention is not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention.

CERTAIN DEFINITIONS

[92] A, an, the: As used herein, the terms "a", "an" and "the" are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by the context.

[93] About or approximately: As used herein, the term "approximately" or "about," as applied to one or more values of interest, refers to a value that is similar to a stated reference value. In general, those skilled in the art, familiar within the context, will appreciate the relevant degree of variance encompassed by "about" or "approximately" in that context. For example, in some embodiments, the term "approximately" or "about" may encompass a range of values that are within 25%, 20%, 19%, 18%, 17%, 16%, 15%, 14%, 13%, 12%, 11%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, or less of the referred value.

[94] Administering: As used herein, the term "administering" or "administration" typically refers to the administration of a composition to a subject to achieve delivery of an agent that is, or is included in, a composition to a target site or a site to be treated. Those of ordinary skill in the art will be aware of a variety of routes that may, in appropriate circumstances, be utilized for administration to a subject, for example a human. For example, in some embodiments, administration may be ocular, oral, parenteral, topical, etc. In some particular embodiments, administration may be bronchial e.g., by bronchial instillation), buccal, dermal (which may be or comprise, for example, one or more of topical to the dermis, intradermal, interdermal, transdermal, etc.), enteral, intra-arterial, intradermal, intragastric, intramedullary, intramuscular, intranasal, intraperitoneal, intrathecal, intravenous, intraventricular, within a specific organ (e.g., intrahepatic), mucosal, nasal, oral, rectal, subcutaneous, sublingual, topical, tracheal (e.g., by intratracheal instillation), vaginal, vitreal, etc. In some embodiments, administration may be parenteral. In some embodiments, administration may be oral. In some embodiments, administration may involve only a single dose. In some embodiments, administration may involve application of a fixed number of doses. In some embodiments, administration may involve dosing that is intermittent (e.g., a plurality of doses separated in time) and/or periodic (e.g., individual doses separated by a common period of time) dosing. In some embodiments, administration may involve continuous dosing (e.g., perfusion) for at least a selected period of time.

[95] And/or: As used herein, "and/or" is to be taken as specific disclosure of each of the two specified features or components with or without the other. For example, "X and/or Y" is to be taken as specific disclosure of each of (i) X, (ii) Y, and (iii) X and Y, just as if each is set out individually herein.

[96] Antibody agent: As used herein, the term "antibody agent" refers to an agent that specifically binds to a particular antigen. In some embodiments, the term encompasses any polypeptide or polypeptide complex that includes immunoglobulin structural elements sufficient to confer specific binding. Exemplary antibody agents include, but are not limited to monoclonal antibodies or polyclonal antibodies. In some embodiments, an antibody agent may include one or more constant region sequences that are characteristic of mouse, rabbit, primate, or human antibodies. In some embodiments, an antibody agent may include one or more sequence elements which are humanized, primatized, chimeric, etc., as is known in the art. In many embodiments, the term "antibody agent" is used to refer to one or more of the art-known or developed constructs or formats for utilizing antibody structural and functional features in alternative presentation. For example, in some embodiments, an antibody agent utilized in accordance with the present disclosure is in a format selected from, but not limited to, intact IgA, IgG, IgE or IgM antibodies; bi- or multi- specific antibodies (e.g., Zybodies®, etc.) antibody fragments such as Fab fragments, Fab' fragments, F(ab')2 fragments, Fd' fragments, Fd fragments, and isolated complementarity determining regions (CDRs) or sets thereof; single chain Fvs; polypeptide-Fc fusions; single domain antibodies (e.g., shark single domain antibodies such as IgNAR or fragments thereof); cameloid antibodies; masked antibodies (e.g., Probodies®); Small Modular ImmunoPharmaceuticals ("SMIPsTM"); single chain or Tandem diabodies (TandAb®); VHHs; Anticalins®; Nanobodies® minibodies; BiTE®s; ankyrin repeat proteins or DARPINs®; Avimers®; DARTs; TCR-like antibodies; Adnectins®; Affilins®; Trans-bodies®; Affibodies®; TrimerX®; MicroProteins; Fynomers®, Centyrins®; and KALBITOR®s. In some embodiments, the term "antibody" or "antibody agent" refers to a glycoprotein comprising at least two heavy (H) chains and two light (L) chains inter-connected by disulfide bonds. In some embodiments, each heavy chain is comprised of a heavy chain variable region (VH) and a heavy chain constant region (CH). In some embodiments, each light chain is comprised of a light chain variable region (VL) and a light chain constant region (CL). The variable regions and constant regions are also referred to herein as variable domains and constant domains, respectively. The VH and VL regions can be further subdivided into regions of hypervariability, termed complementarity determining regions (CDRs), interspersed with regions that are more conserved, termed framework regions (FRs). Each VH and VL is composed of three CDRs and four FRs, arranged from amino-terminus to carboxy-terminus in the following order: FR1, CDR1, FR2, CDR2, FR3, CDR3, FR4. The CDRs of a VH are termed HCDR1, HCDR2 and HCDR3 (or CDR-H1, CDR-H2 and CDR-H3), the CDRs of a VL are termed LCDR1, LCDR2 and LCDR3 (or CDR-L1, CDR-L2 and CDR-L3). The variable regions of the heavy and light chains contain a binding domain that interacts with an antigen. The constant regions of an antibody comprise the heavy chain constant region (CH) and the light chain constant region (CL), wherein CH can be further subdivided into constant domain CHI , a hinge region, and constant domains CH2 and CH3 (arranged from amino-terminus to carboxyterminus in the following order: CHI, CH2, CH3). The constant regions of the antibodies may mediate the binding of the immunoglobulin to host tissues or factors, including various cells of the immune system (e.g., effector cells) and components of the complement system such as Clq. The term "full-length" when used in the context of an antibody indicates that the antibody is not a fragment, but contains all of the domains of the particular isotype normally found for that isotype in nature, e.g. the VH, CHI, CH2, CH3, hinge, VL and CL domains for an IgGl antibody. As used herein, the term "Fab-arm" or "arm" refers to one heavy chain-light chain pair and is used interchangeably with "half molecule" herein. In some embodiments, an antibody may lack a covalent modification (e.g., attachment of a glycan) that it would have if produced naturally. In some embodiments, an antibody may contain a covalent modification (e.g, attachment of a glycan, a payload [e.g., a detectable moiety, a therapeutic moiety, a catalytic moiety, etc.], or other pendant group [e.g., poly-ethylene glycol, etc.]. In many embodiments, an antibody agent is or comprises a polypeptide whose amino acid sequence includes one or more structural elements recognized by those skilled in the art as a complementarity determining region (CDR); in some embodiments an antibody agent is or comprises a polypeptide whose amino acid sequence includes at least one CDR (e.g., at least one heavy chain CDR and/or at least one light chain CDR) that is substantially identical to one found in a reference antibody. In some embodiments an included CDR is substantially identical to a reference CDR in that it is either identical in sequence or contains between 1 -5 amino acid substitutions as compared with the reference CDR. In some embodiments an included CDR is substantially identical to a reference CDR in that it shows at least 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity with the reference CDR. In some embodiments, an included CDR is substantially identical to a reference CDR in that it shows at least 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity with the reference CDR. In some embodiments an included CDR is substantially identical to a reference CDR in that at least one amino acid within the included CDR is deleted, added, or substituted as compared with the reference CDR but the included CDR has an amino acid sequence that is otherwise identical with that of the reference CDR. In some embodiments an included CDR is substantially identical to a reference CDR in that 1-5 amino acids within the included CDR are deleted, added, or substituted as compared with the reference CDR but the included CDR has an amino acid sequence that is otherwise identical to the reference CDR. In some embodiments, an included CDR is substantially identical to a reference CDR in that at least one amino acid within the included CDR is substituted as compared with the reference CDR but the included CDR has an amino acid sequence that is otherwise identical with that of the reference CDR. In some embodiments, an included CDR is substantially identical to a reference CDR in that 1-5 amino acids within the included CDR are deleted, added, or substituted as compared with the reference CDR but the included CDR has an amino acid sequence that is otherwise identical to the reference CDR. In some embodiments, an antibody agent is or comprises a polypeptide whose amino acid sequence includes structural elements recognized by those skilled in the art as an immunoglobulin variable domain. In some embodiments, an antibody agent is a polypeptide protein having a binding domain which is homologous or largely homologous to an immunoglobulin-binding domain.

[97] Antibody agents can be made by the skilled person using methods and commercially available services and kits known in the art. For example, methods of preparation of monoclonal antibodies are well known in the art and include hybridoma technology and phage display technology. Further antibodies suitable for use in the present disclosure are described, for example, in the following publications: Antibodies A Laboratory Manual, Second edition. Edward A. Greenfield. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press (September 30, 2013); Making and Using Antibodies: A Practical Handbook, Second Edition. Eds. Gary C. Howard and Matthew R. Kaser. CRC Press (July 29, 2013); Antibody Engineering: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition (Methods in Molecular Biology). Patrick Chames. Humana Press (August 21, 2012); Monoclonal Antibodies: Methods and Protocols (Methods in Molecular Biology). Eds. Vincent Ossipow and Nicolas Fischer. Humana Press (February 12, 2014); and Human Monoclonal Antibodies: Methods and Protocols (Methods in Molecular Biology). Michael Steinitz. Humana Press (September 30, 2013)).

[98] Antibodies may be produced by standard techniques, for example by immunization with the appropriate polypeptide or portion(s) thereof, or by using a phage display library. If polyclonal antibodies are desired, a selected mammal (e.g., mouse, rabbit, goat, horse, etc. is immunized with an immunogenic polypeptide bearing a desired epitope(s), optionally haptenized to another polypeptide. Depending on the host species, various adjuvants may be used to increase immunological response. Such adjuvants include, but are not limited to, Freund's, mineral gels such as aluminum hydroxide, and surface-active substances such as lysolecithin, pluronic polyols, polyanions, peptides, oil emulsions, keyhole limpet hemocyanin, and dinitrophenol. Serum from the immunized animal is collected and treated according to known procedures. If serum containing polyclonal antibodies to the desired epitope contains antibodies to other antigens, the polyclonal antibodies can be purified by immunoaffinity chromatography or any other method known in the art. Techniques for producing and processing polyclonal antisera are well known in the art. [99] Associated with: Two events or entities are “associated” with one another, as that term is used herein, if the presence, level and/or form of one is correlated with that of the other. For example, a particular biological phenomenon (e.g., expression of CLDN-18.2) is considered to be associated with a particular disease, disorder, or condition (e.g., cancer), if its presence correlates with incidence of and/or susceptibility of the disease, disorder, or condition (e.g., across a relevant population), or likelihood of responsiveness to a treatment.

[100] Blood-derived sample: The term “blood-derived sample,” as used herein, refers to a sample derived from a blood sample (i.e., a whole blood sample) of a subject. Examples of blood-derived samples include, but are not limited to, blood plasma (including, e.g., fresh frozen plasma), blood serum, blood fractions, plasma fractions, serum fractions, blood fractions comprising red blood cells (RBC), platelets, leukocytes, etc., and cell lysates including fractions thereof (for example, cells, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, etc., may be harvested and lysed to obtain a cell lysate). In some embodiments, a blood-derived sample that is used for characterization described herein is a plasma sample.

[101] Cancer: The term “cancer” is used herein to generally refer to a disease or condition in which cells of a tissue of interest exhibit relatively abnormal, uncontrolled, and/or autonomous growth, so that they exhibit an aberrant growth phenotype characterized by a significant loss of control of cell proliferation. In some embodiments, cancer may comprise cells that are precancerous (e.g., benign), malignant, pre-metastatic, metastatic, and/or non-metastatic. In some embodiments, cancer may be characterized by a solid tumor. In some embodiments, cancer may be characterized by a hematologic tumor. In general, examples of different types of cancers known in the art include, for example, hematopoietic cancers including leukemias, lymphomas (Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s), myelomas and myeloproliferative disorders; sarcomas, melanomas, adenomas, carcinomas of solid tissue, squamous cell carcinomas of the mouth, throat, larynx, and lung, liver cancer, genitourinary cancers such as prostate, cervical, bladder, uterine, and endometrial cancer and renal cell carcinomas, bone cancer, pancreatic cancer, skin cancer, cutaneous or intraocular melanoma, cancer of the endocrine system, cancer of the thyroid gland, cancer of the parathyroid gland, head and neck cancers, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, glioblastomas, colorectal cancer, gastro-intestinal cancers and nervous system cancers, benign lesions such as papillomas, and the like. [102] Cap: As used herein, the term “cap” refers to a structure comprising or essentially consisting of a nucleoside-5 '-triphosphate that is typically joined to a 5'-end of an uncapped RNA (e.g., an uncapped RNA having a 5'- diphosphate). In some embodiments, a cap is or comprises a guanine nucleotide. In some embodiments, a cap is or comprises a naturally- occurring RNA 5’ cap, including, e.g., but not limited to a 7- methylguanosine cap, which has a structure designated as "m7G." In some embodiments, a cap is or comprises a synthetic cap analog that resembles an RNA cap structure and possesses the ability to stabilize RNA if attached thereto, including, e.g. , but not limited to anti-reverse cap analogs (ARCAs) known in the art. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that methods for joining a cap to a 5’ end of an RNA are known in the art. For example, in some embodiments, a capped RNA may be obtained by in vitro capping of RNA that has a 5' triphosphate group or RNA that has a 5' diphosphate group with a capping enzyme system (including, e.g., but not limited to vaccinia capping enzyme system or Saccharomyces cerevisiae capping enzyme system). Alternatively, a capped RNA can be obtained by in vitro transcription (IVT) of a DNA template, wherein, in addition to the GTP, an IVT system also contains a dinucleotide cap analog (including, e.g., a m7GpppG cap analog or an N7-methyl, 2’-O- methyl -GpppG ARCA cap analog or an N7-methyl, 3'-O-methyl-GpppG ARCA cap analog) using methods known in the art. In some embodiments, a cap is a cap0, cap1, or cap2, preferably cap1 or cap2. As used herein, the term "capO" means the structure "m7GpppN", wherein N is any nucleoside bearing an OH moiety at position 2'. As used herein, the term "cap1" means the structure "m7GpppNm", wherein Nm is any nucleoside bearing an OCH3 moiety at position 2'. As used herein, the term "cap2" means the structure "m7GpppNmNm", wherein each Nm is independently any nucleoside bearing an OCH3 moiety at position 2'.

[103] CLDN-18.2 positive-. As used herein, the term “CLDN-18.2 positive” or “CLDN- 18.2+” refers to clinically relevant CLDN-18.2 expression and/or activity, e.g., as may be associated with a particular disease, disorder, or condition and/or as may be detected in or on a sample that may be or comprise one or more cells or tissue samples. In some embodiments, CLDN-18.2+ refers to cancer that is associated with clinically relevant CLDN-18.2 expression and/activity. In certain exemplary embodiments, CLDN-18.2 positive expression and/or activity may be or comprise de novo CLDN-18.2 overexpression, e.g., in cancer cells; alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, CLDN-18.2 positive expression and/or activity may be or have been associated with exposure to one or more agents or conditions, such as one or more chemotherapeutic agents (including, e.g., gemcitabine and/or cisplatin). In some embodiments, CLDN-18.2 “positivity” is assessed relative to an appropriate reference (e.g., a “negative control” such as a CLDN-18.2 level and/or activity in appropriately comparable non-cancer cell(s) and/or tissue(s); a “positive control” such as a CLDN-18.2 level and/or activity as may have been determined for known CLDN- 18.2-positive cell(s) and/or tissue(s); and/or an established threshold for CLDN-18.2 level and/or activity associated with normal (e.g., healthy, non-cancer) vs non-normal (e.g., cancer) status. In some embodiments, the term “CLDN-18.2+” is used herein to refer to a tumor sample from a cancer patient when that has been determined to show elevated detectable CLDN-18.2 protein expression relative to an appropriate reference (e.g., that level observed in a sample determined or otherwise known to be negative for CLDN- 18.2 expression). In some embodiments, a sample is considered to be CLDN-18.2+ when > 50% of tumor cells in the sample are determined to have > 2+ CLDN-18.2 protein staining-intensity as assessed by an immunohistochemistry assay in formalin- fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) neoplastic tissues; those skilled in the art are aware that pathologists commonly use such a scoring system for interpretation of IHC data obtained with respect to tumor sample(s). See, e.g., Fedchenko and Reifenrath, Diagnostic Pathology (2014) 9:221, which describes different approaches for interpretation and reporting of IHC analysis results including a scoring system. See also, Zimmermann et al., Cancer Cytopathology (2014) 48-58. Thus, pathologists will readily recognize that 2+ refers to a grading score of 2 or higher, which indicates that such an immunohistochemistry assay result is unambitious. More precisely 2+ describes a moderate or strong staining in a qualitative scale from negative”(0), “weak”(l), “moderate”(2), “strong”(3).

[104] Co-administration: As used herein, the term “co-administration” refers to use of a pharmaceutical composition described herein in combination with another therapy (e.g., surgery, radiation, and/or administration of an another therapeutic agent such as a chemotherapeutic agent described herein, and/or an agent that relieves one or more symptoms or attributes of the relevant disease, disorder or condition and/or of administered therapy [e.g., chemotherapy]), so that a subject receives both. The combined administration of a pharmaceutical composition described herein and such other therapy may be performed concurrently (e.g., via overlapping protocols) or separately (e.g., sequentially in any order). In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein may include two or more active agents combined in one pharmaceutically- acceptable carrier (e.g., in a single dosage form). Alternatively, in some embodiments, coadministration involves administration of two or more physically distinct pharmaceutical compositions, each of which may contain a different active agent or combination of agents; in some such embodiments, one or more (and, in some embodiments, all) doses of such distinct pharmaceutical compositions may be administered substantially simultaneously. In some embodiments, one or more (and, in some embodiments, all) doses of such distinct pharmaceutical compositions may be administered separately, e.g., according to overlapping regimens or sequential regimens. In general, two or more therapies may be considered to be “coadministered” when delivered or administered sufficiently close in time that there is at least some temporal overlap in biological effect(s) generated by each on a target cell or a subject to which they are administered.

[105] Codon optimization-. As used herein, the term "codon-optimization" refers to the alteration of codons in the coding region of a nucleic acid molecule to reflect the typical codon usage of a host organism without preferably altering the amino acid sequence encoded by the nucleic acid molecule. Within the context of the present disclosure, coding regions may be codon-optimized for optimal expression in a subject to be treated using the RNA (in particular, mRNA) described herein. Codon-optimization is based on the finding that the translation efficiency is also determined by a different frequency in the occurrence of tRNAs in cells. Thus, the sequence of RNA (in particular, mRNA) may be modified such that codons for which frequently occurring tRNAs are available are inserted in place of "rare codons".

[106] Combination therapy: As used herein, the term “combination therapy” refers to those situations in which a subject is simultaneously exposed to two or more therapeutic regimens (e.g., two or more therapeutic agents). In some embodiments, two or more regimens may be administered simultaneously; in some embodiments, such regimens may be administered sequentially (e.g., all “doses” of a first regimen are administered prior to administration of any doses of a second regimen); in some embodiments, such agents are administered in overlapping dosing regimens. In some embodiments, “administration” of combination therapy may involve administration of one or more agent(s) or modality(ies) to a subject receiving the other agent(s) or modality(ies) in the combination. For clarity, combination therapy does not require that individual agents be administered together in a single composition (or even necessarily at the same time), although in some embodiments, two or more agents, or active moieties thereof, may be administered together in a combination composition.

[107] Comparable-. As used herein, the term “comparable” refers to two or more agents, entities, situations, sets of conditions, etc., that may not be identical to one another but that are sufficiently similar to permit comparison therebetween so that one skilled in the art will appreciate that conclusions may reasonably be drawn based on differences or similarities observed. In some embodiments, comparable sets of conditions, circumstances, individuals, or populations are characterized by a plurality of substantially identical features and one or a small number of varied features. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand, in context, what degree of identity is required in any given circumstance for two or more such agents, entities, situations, sets of conditions, etc. to be considered comparable. For example, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that sets of circumstances, individuals, or populations are comparable to one another when characterized by a sufficient number and type of substantially identical features to warrant a reasonable conclusion that differences in results obtained or phenomena observed under or with different sets of circumstances, individuals, or populations are caused by or indicative of the variation in those features that are varied.

[108] Complementary: As used herein, the term “complementary” is used in reference to oligonucleotide hybridization related by base-pairing rules. For example, the sequence “C-A- G-T” is complementary to the sequence “G-T-C-A.” Complementarity can be partial or total. Thus, any degree of partial complementarity is intended to be included within the scope of the term “complementary” provided that the partial complementarity permits oligonucleotide hybridization. Partial complementarity is where one or more nucleic acid bases is not matched according to the base pairing rules. Total or complete complementarity between nucleic acids is where each and every nucleic acid base is matched with another base under the base pairing rules.

[109] Comprise, consist: The word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated feature, element, member, integer or step or group of features, elements, members, integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other feature, element, member, integer or step or group of features, elements, members, integers or steps. The term "consisting essentially of limits the scope of a claim or disclosure to the specified features, elements, members, integers, or steps and those that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claim or disclosure. The term “consisting of’ limits the scope of a claim or disclosure to the specified features, elements, members, integers, or steps. The term "comprising" encompasses the term "consisting essentially of' which, in turn, encompasses the term "consisting of. Thus, at each occurrence in the present application, the term "comprising" may be replaced with the term "consisting essentially of or "consisting of. Likewise, at each occurrence in the present application, the term "consisting essentially of may be replaced with the term "consisting of.

[110] Contacting: As used interchangeably herein, the term “delivery,” “delivering,” or “contacting” refers to exposing a relevant target (e.g., cell, tissue, organism, etc.) to RNA(s) or a composition that comprises or delivers the same as described herein, so that the RNA is delivered into a target cell (e.g., cytosol of a target cell). A target cell can be cultured in vitro or ex vivo or be present in a subject (in vivo). Those skilled in the art will appreciate that different methods of contacting may be utilized to achieve such delivery to a target cell in in vitro, ex vivo, or in vivo applications. In some embodiments, contacting cells in culture may be or comprise in vitro transfection. In some embodiments, contacting may utilize one or more delivery vehicles (e.g., lipid nanoparticles described herein). In some embodiments, contacting may be or comprise administering a pharmaceutical composition described herein to a subject.

[111] Detecting: The term “detecting” is used broadly herein to include appropriate means of determining the presence or absence of an entity of interest or any form of measurement of an entity of interest in a sample. Thus, “detecting” may include determining, measuring, assessing, or assaying the presence or absence, level, amount, and/or location of an entity of interest. Quantitative and qualitative determinations, measurements or assessments are included, including semi-quantitative. Such determinations, measurements or assessments may be relative, for example when an entity of interest is being detected relative to a control reference, or absolute. As such, the term “quantifying” when used in the context of quantifying an entity of interest can refer to absolute or to relative quantification. Absolute quantification may be accomplished by correlating a detected level of an entity of interest to known control standards (e.g., through generation of a standard curve). Alternatively, relative quantification can be accomplished by comparison of detected levels or amounts between two or more different entities of interest to provide a relative quantification of each of the two or more different entities of interest, i.e., relative to each other.

[112] Disease: As used herein, the term “disease” refers to a disorder or condition that typically impairs normal functioning of a tissue or system in a subject (e.g., a human subject) and is typically manifested by characteristic signs and/or symptoms. In some embodiments, an exemplary disease is cancer.

[113] Encode: As used herein, the term “encode” or “encoding” refers to sequence information of a first molecule that guides production of a second molecule having a defined sequence of nucleotides (e.g., mRNA) or a defined sequence of amino acids. For example, a DNA molecule can encode an RNA molecule (e.g., by a transcription process that includes a DNA-dependent RNA polymerase enzyme). An RNA molecule can encode a polypeptide (e.g., by a translation process). Thus, a nucleic acid encodes a polypeptide if transcription and/or translation of the nucleic acid produces the polypeptide in a cell or other biological system.

[114] Epitope: As used herein, the term “epitope” includes any moiety that is specifically recognized by an immunoglobulin (e.g., antibody or receptor) binding component or an aptamer. In some embodiments, an epitope is comprised of a plurality of chemical atoms or groups on an antigen. In some embodiments, such chemical atoms or groups are surface- exposed when the antigen adopts a relevant three-dimensional conformation. In some embodiments, such chemical atoms or groups are physically near to each other in space when the antigen adopts such a conformation. In some embodiments, at least some such chemical atoms are groups are physically separated from one another when the antigen adopts an alternative conformation (e.g., is linearized).

[115] Expression: As used herein, “expression” of a nucleic acid sequence refers to one or more of the following events: (1) production of an RNA template from a DNA sequence (e.g., by transcription); (2) processing of an RNA transcript (e.g., by splicing, editing, 5’ cap formation, and/or 3’ end formation); (3) translation of an RNA into a polypeptide or protein; and/or (4) post-translational modification of a polypeptide or protein.

[116] Fc region As used herein, the term “Fc region” refers to an antibody region consisting of the two Fc sequences of the heavy chains of an immunoglobulin, wherein said Fc sequences comprise at least a hinge region, a CH2 domain, and a CH3 domain. [117] Five prime untranslated region: As used herein, the terms "five prime untranslated region" or "5' UTR" refer to a sequence of an mRNA molecule that begins at the transcription start site and ends one nucleotide (nt) before the start codon (usually AUG) of the coding region of an RNA.

[118] Homology: As used herein, the term “homology” or “homolog” refers to the overall relatedness between polynucleotide molecules (e.g., DNA molecules and/or RNA molecules) and/or between polypeptide molecules. In some embodiments, polynucleotide molecules (e.g., DNA molecules and/or RNA molecules) and/or polypeptide molecules are considered to be “homologous” to one another if their sequences are at least 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 99% identical. In some embodiments, polynucleotide molecules (e.g., DNA molecules and/or RNA molecules) and/or polypeptide molecules are considered to be “homologous” to one another if their sequences are at least 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 99% similar (e.g., containing residues with related chemical properties at corresponding positions). For example, as is well known by those of ordinary skill in the art, certain amino acids are typically classified as similar to one another as "hydrophobic" or “hydrophilic” amino acids, and/or as having “polar” or “non-polar” side chains. Substitution of one amino acid for another of the same type may often be considered a “homologous” substitution.

[119] Identity: As used herein, the term “identity” refers to the overall relatedness between polynucleotide molecules (e.g., DNA molecules and/or RNA molecules) and/or between polypeptide molecules. In some embodiments, polynucleotide molecules (e.g., DNA molecules and/or RNA molecules) and/or between polypeptide molecules are considered to be “substantially identical” to one another if their sequences are at least 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical. Calculation of the percent identity of two nucleic acid or polypeptide sequences, for example, can be performed by aligning the two sequences for optimal comparison purposes (e.g., gaps can be introduced in one or both of a first and a second sequence for optimal alignment and non-identical sequences can be disregarded for comparison purposes). In certain embodiments, the length of a sequence aligned for comparison purposes is at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99%, or substantially 100% of the length of a reference sequence. The nucleotides at corresponding positions are then compared. When a position in the first sequence is occupied by the same residue (c.g., nucleotide or amino acid) as the corresponding position in the second sequence, then the molecules are identical at that position. The percent identity between the two sequences is a function of the number of identical positions shared by the sequences, taking into account the number of gaps, and the length of each gap, which needs to be introduced for optimal alignment of the two sequences. The comparison of sequences and determination of percent identity between two sequences can be accomplished using a mathematical algorithm. For example, the percent identity between two nucleotide sequences can be determined using the algorithm of Meyers and Miller, 1989, which has been incorporated into the ALIGN program (version 2.0). In some exemplary embodiments, nucleic acid sequence comparisons made with the ALIGN program use a PAM120 weight residue table, a gap length penalty of 12 and a gap penalty of 4. The percent identity between two nucleotide sequences can, alternatively, be determined using the GAP program in the GCG software package using an NWSgapdna.CMP matrix. In some embodiments, the degree of identity is given for a region which is at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90% or about 100% of the entire length of the reference sequence. For example, if the reference nucleic acid sequence consists of 200 nucleotides, the degree of identity is given for at least about 100, at least about 120, at least about 140, at least about 160, at least about 180, or about 200 nucleotides, in some embodiments continuous nucleotides. In some embodiments, the degree of similarity or identity is given for the entire length of the reference sequence.

[120] Immunogenicity: "Immunogenicity" is the ability of a foreign substance, such as RNA, to provoke an immune response in the body of a human or other animal. The innate immune system is the component of the immune system that is relatively unspecific and immediate. It is one of two main components of the vertebrate immune system, along with the adaptive immune system.

[121] Immunoglobulin: As used herein, the term "immunoglobulin" relates to proteins of the immunoglobulin superfamily, preferably to antigen receptors such as antibodies or the B cell receptor (BCR). The immunoglobulins are characterized by a structural domain, i.e., the immunoglobulin domain, having a characteristic immunoglobulin (Ig) fold. The term encompasses membrane bound immunoglobulins as well as soluble immunoglobulins. Membrane bound immunoglobulins are also termed surface immunoglobulins or membrane immunoglobulins, which are generally part of the BCR. Soluble immunoglobulins are generally termed antibodies. The structure of immunoglobulins has been well characterized. See, e.g., Fundamental Immunology Ch. 7 (Paul, W., ed., 2 ^nd ed. Raven Press, N.Y. (1989)). Briefly, immunoglobulins generally comprise several chains, typically two identical heavy chains and two identical light chains which are linked via disulfide bonds. These chains are primarily composed of immunoglobulin domains or regions, such as the VL or VL (variable light chain) domain/region, CL or CL (constant light chain) domain/region, VH or VH (variable heavy chain) domain/region, and the CH or CH (constant heavy chain) domains/regions CHI (CHI), CH2 (CH2), CH3 (CH3), and CH4 (CH4). The heavy chain constant region typically is comprised of three domains, CHI, CH2, and CH3. The hinge region is the region between the CHI and CH2 domains of the heavy chain and is highly flexible. Disulfide bonds in the hinge region are part of the interactions between two heavy chains in an IgG molecule. Each light chain typically is comprised of a VL and a CL. The light chain constant region typically is comprised of one domain, CL. The VH and VL regions may be further subdivided into regions of hypervariability (or hypervariable regions which may be hypervariable in sequence and/or form of structurally defined loops), also termed complementarity determining regions (CDRs), interspersed with regions that are more conserved, termed framework regions (FRs). Each VH and VL is typically composed of three CDRs and four FRs, arranged from amino-terminus to carboxy-terminus in the following order: FR1, CDR1, FR2, CDR2, FR3, CDR3, FR4 (see also Chothia and Lesk J. Mol. Biol. 196, 901-917 (1987)). Unless otherwise stated or contradicted by context, CDR sequences herein are identified according to IMGT rules using DomainGapAlign (Lefranc MP., Nucleic Acids Research 1999;27:209-212 and Ehrenmann F., Kaas Q. and Lefranc M.-P. Nucleic Acids Res., 38, D301-307 (2010); see also internet http address www.imgt.org. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to CDR sequences only determined according to the IMGT rules. There are five types of mammalian immunoglobulin heavy chains, i.e., a, 6, c. y, and p which account for the different classes of antibodies, i.e., IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM. As opposed to the heavy chains of soluble immunoglobulins, the heavy chains of membrane or surface immunoglobulins comprise a transmembrane domain and a short cytoplasmic domain at their carboxy-terminus. In mammals there are two types of light chains, i.e., lambda and kappa. The immunoglobulin chains comprise a variable region and a constant region. The constant region is essentially conserved within the different isotypes of the immunoglobulins, wherein the variable part is highly divers and accounts for antigen recognition.

[122] Isolated: " Isolated" means removed (e.g., purified) from the natural state or from an artificial composition, such as a composition from a production process. For example, a nucleic acid or polypeptide naturally present in a living animal is not "isolated", but the same nucleic acid, peptide or polypeptide partially or completely separated from the coexisting materials of its natural state is "isolated". An isolated nucleic acid or polypeptide can exist in substantially purified form, or can exist in a non-native environment such as, for example, a host cell.

[123] Lipid: As used herein, the term "lipid" relates to molecules which comprise one or more hydrophobic moieties or groups and optionally also one or more hydrophilic moieties or groups. Molecules comprising hydrophobic moieties and hydrophilic moieties are also frequently denoted as amphiphiles. Lipids are usually insoluble or poorly soluble in water, but soluble in many organic solvents. In an aqueous environment, the amphiphilic nature allows the molecules to self-assemble into organized structures and different phases. Generally, lipids may be divided into eight categories: fatty acids, glycerolipids, glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, saccharolipids, polyketides (derived from condensation of ketoacyl subunits), sterol lipids and prenol lipids (derived from condensation of isoprene subunits). Although the term "lipid" is sometimes used as a synonym for fats, fats are a subgroup of lipids called triglycerides. Lipids also encompass molecules such as fatty acids and their derivatives (including tri-, di-, monoglycerides, and phospholipids), as well as steroids, i.e., sterol-containing metabolites such as cholesterol or a derivative thereof. Examples of cholesterol derivatives include, but are not limited to, cholestanol, cholestanone, cholestenone, coprostanol, cholesteryl -2'-hydroxyethyl ether, cholesteryl-4'-hydroxybutyl ether, tocopherol and derivatives thereof, and mixtures thereof.

[124] Locally advanced tumor: As used herein, the term “locally advanced tumor” or “locally advanced cancer” refers to its art-recognized meaning, which may vary with different types of cancer. For example, in some embodiments, a locally advanced tumor refers to a tumor that is large but has not yet spread to another body part. In some embodiments, a locally advanced tumor is used to describe cancer that has grown outside the tissue or organ it started but has not yet spread to distant sites in the body of a subject. By way of example only, in some embodiments, locally advanced pancreatic cancer typically refers to stage III disease with tumor extension to adjacent organs (e.g., lymph nodes, liver, duodenum, superior mesenteric artery, and/or celiac trunk) but no signs of metastatic disease; yet complete surgical excision with negative pathologic margins is not possible.

[125] Mol%: As used herein, "mol %" is defined as the ratio of the number of moles of one component to the total number of moles of all components, multiplied by 100. As used in the present disclosure, "mol % of the total lipid" is defined as the ratio of the number of moles of one lipid component to the total number of moles of all lipids, multiplied by 100. In this context, in some embodiments, the term "total lipid" includes lipids and lipid-like material.

[126] Non-immunogenic RNA: As used herein, the term "non-immunogenic RNA" (such as "non-immunogenic mRNA") refers to RNA that does not induce a response by the immune system upon administration, e.g., to a mammal, or induces a weaker response than would have been induced by the same RNA that differs only in that it has not been subjected to the modifications and treatments that render the non-immunogenic RNA non-immunogenic, i.e., than would have been induced by standard RNA (stdRNA).

[127] Nucleic acid/ Polynucleotide'. As used herein, the term “nucleic acid” refers to a polymer of at least 10 nucleotides or more. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid is or comprises DNA. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid is or comprises RNA. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid is or comprises peptide nucleic acid (PNA). In some embodiments, a nucleic acid is or comprises a single stranded nucleic acid. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid is or comprises a double-stranded nucleic acid. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid comprises both single and double-stranded portions. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid comprises a backbone that comprises one or more phosphodiester linkages. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid comprises a backbone that comprises both phosphodiester and non-phosphodiester linkages. For example, in some embodiments, a nucleic acid may comprise a backbone that comprises one or more phosphorothioate or 5'-N-phosphoramidite linkages and/or one or more peptide bonds, e.g., as in a “peptide nucleic acid”. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid comprises one or more, or all, natural residues (e.g., adenine, cytosine, deoxyadenosine, deoxycytidine, deoxyguanosine, deoxythymidine, guanine, thymine, uracil). In some embodiments, a nucleic acid comprises on or more, or all, non-natural residues. In some embodiments, a non-natural residue comprises a nucleoside analog (e.g., 2-aminoadenosine, 2-thiothymidine, inosine, pyrrolo-pyrimidine, 3 - methyl adenosine, 5 -methylcytidine, C-5 propynyl-cytidine, C-5 propynyl-uridine, 2- aminoadenosine, C5-bromouridine, C5-fluorouridine, C5-iodouridine, C5-propynyl-uridine, C5 - propynyl-cytidine, C5-methylcytidine, 2-aminoadenosine, 7-deazaadenosine, 7-deazaguanosine, 8-oxoadenosine, 8-oxoguanosine, 6-O-methylguanine, 2-thiocytidine, methylated bases, intercalated bases, and combinations thereof). In some embodiments, a non-natural residue comprises one or more modified sugars (e.g., 2'-fluororibose, ribose, 2'-deoxyribose, arabinose, and hexose) as compared to those in natural residues. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid has a nucleotide sequence that encodes a functional gene product such as an RNA or polypeptide. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid has a nucleotide sequence that comprises one or more introns. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid may be prepared by isolation from a natural source, enzymatic synthesis (e.g., by polymerization based on a complementary template, e.g., in vivo or in vitro, reproduction in a recombinant cell or system, or chemical synthesis). In some embodiments, a nucleic acid is at least 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 1 10, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 20, 225, 250, 275, 300, 325, 350, 375, 400, 425, 450, 475, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1500, 2000, 2500, 3000, 3500, 4000, 4500, 5000, 5500, 6000, 6500, 7000, 7500, 8000, 8500, 9000, 9500, 10,000, 10,500, 11,000, 11,500, 12,000, 12,500, 13,000, 13,500, 14,000, 14,500, 15,000, 15,500, 16,000, 16,500, 17,000, 17,500, 18,000, 18,500, 19,000, 19,500, or 20,000 or more residues or nucleotides long.

[128] Nucleotide: As used herein, the term “nucleotide” refers to its art-recognized meaning. When a number of nucleotides is used as an indication of size, e.g., of a polynucleotide, a certain number of nucleotides refers to the number of nucleotides on a single strand, e.g., of a polynucleotide.

[129] Optional: The term "optional" or "optionally" as used herein means that the subsequently described event, circumstance or condition may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event, circumstance, or condition occurs and instances in which it does not occur. [130] Patient: As used herein, the term “patient” refers to any organism who is suffering or at risk of a disease or disorder or condition. Typical patients include animals (e.g., mammals such as mice, rats, rabbits, non-human primates, and/or humans). In some embodiments, a patient is a human. In some embodiments, a patient is suffering from or susceptible to one or more diseases or disorders or conditions. In some embodiments, a patient displays one or more symptoms of a disease or disorder or condition. In some embodiments, a patient has been diagnosed with one or more diseases or disorders or conditions. In some embodiments, a disease or disorder or condition that is amenable to provided technologies is or includes cancer, or presence of one or more tumors. In some embodiments, a patient is receiving or has received certain therapy to diagnose and/or to treat a disease, disorder, or condition. In some embodiments, a patient is a cancer patient.

[131] Polypeptide'. The term “polypeptide”, as used herein, typically has its art- recognized meaning of a polymer of at least three amino acids or more. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the term “polypeptide” is intended to be sufficiently general as to encompass not only polypeptides having a complete sequence recited herein, but also to encompass polypeptides that represent functional, biologically active, or characteristic fragments, portions or domains (e.g., fragments, portions, or domains retaining at least one activity) of such complete polypeptides. In some embodiments, polypeptides may contain L- amino acids, D-amino acids, or both and/or may contain any of a variety of amino acid modifications or analogs known in the art. Useful modifications include, e.g., terminal acetylation, amidation, methylation, etc. In some embodiments, polypeptides may comprise natural amino acids, non-natural amino acids, synthetic amino acids, and combinations thereof (e.g., may be or comprise peptidomimetics).

[132] Pharmaceutically active polypeptide'. The term “pharmaceutically active polypeptide”, as used herein, means a peptide or polypeptide that can be used in the treatment of an individual where the expression of the peptide or polypeptide would be of benefit, e.g., in ameliorating the symptoms of a disease. Preferably, a pharmaceutically active peptide or polypeptide has curative or palliative properties and may be administered to ameliorate, relieve, alleviate, reverse, delay onset of or lessen the severity of one or more symptoms of a disease. In some embodiments, a pharmaceutically active peptide or polypeptide has a positive or advantageous effect on the condition or disease state of an individual when administered to the individual in a therapeutically effective amount. A pharmaceutically active peptide or polypeptide may have prophylactic properties and may be used to delay the onset of a disease or to lessen the severity of such disease. The term "pharmaceutically active peptide" or "pharmaceutically active polypeptide" includes entire peptides or polypeptides, and can also refer to pharmaceutically active fragments thereof. It can also include pharmaceutically active variants and/or analogs of a peptide or polypeptide.

Specific examples of pharmaceutically active peptides and polypeptides include, but are not limited to, immunostimulants, e.g., cytokines, honnones, adhesion molecules, immunoglobulins, immunologically active compounds, growth factors, protease inhibitors, enzymes, receptors, apoptosis regulators, transcription factors, tumor suppressor proteins, structural proteins, reprogramming factors, genomic engineering proteins, and blood proteins. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutically active peptide and polypeptide includes a replacement protein.

An “immunostimulant” is any substance that stimulates the immune system by inducing activation or increasing activity of any of the immune system's components, in particular immune effector cells. The immunostimulant may be pro-inflammatory (e.g., when treating infections or cancer), or anti-inflammatory (e.g., when treating autoimmune diseases).

According to one aspect, the immunostimulant is a cytokine or a variant thereof. Examples of cytokines include interferons, such as interferon-alpha (IFN-a) or interferon- amma (IFN-Υ), interleukins, such as IL2, IL7, IL12, IL15 and IL23, colony stimulating factors, such as M-CSF and GM-CSF, and tumor necrosis factor. According to another aspect, the immunostimulant includes an adjuvant-type immunostimulatory agent such as APC Toll-like Receptor agonists or costimulatory/cell adhesion membrane proteins. Examples of Toll-like Receptor agonists include costimulatory/adhesion proteins such as CD80, CD86, and ICAM-1.

The term "cytokines" relates to proteins which have a molecular weight of about 5 to 60 kDa and which participate in cell signaling (e.g., paracrine, endocrine, and/or autocrine signaling). In particular, when released, cytokines exert an effect on the behavior of cells around the place of their release. Examples of cytokines include lymphokines, interleukins, chemokines, interferons, and tumor necrosis factors (TNFs). According to the present disclosure, cytokines do not include honnones or growth factors. Cytokines differ from hormones in that (i) they usually act at much more variable concentrations than honnones and (ii) generally are made by a broad range of cells (nearly all nucleated cells can produce cytokines). Particular examples of cytokines include erythropoietin (EPO), colony stimulating factor (CSF), granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G- CSF), granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), interferon alfa (IFNa), interferon beta (IFNP), interferon gamma (INFγ), interleukin 2 (IL-2), interleukin 4 (IL-4), interleukin 7 (IL-7), interleukin 10 (IL- 10), interleukin 11 (IL- 11), interleukin 12 (IL- 12), interleukin 15 (IL- 15), and interleukin 21 (IL- 21), as well as variants and derivatives thereof.

According to the disclosure, a cytokine may be a naturally occurring cytokine or a functional fragment or variant thereof. A cytokine may be human cytokine and may be derived from any vertebrate, especially any mammal. One particularly preferred cytokine is interferon-a.

Interferons (IFNs) are a group of signaling proteins made and released by host cells in response to the presence of several pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, parasites, and also tumor cells. In a typical scenario, a virus-infected cell will release interferons causing nearby cells to heighten their anti-viral defenses. Interferons are usually characterized by antiviral, antiproliferative and immunomodulatory activities. Interferons are proteins that alter and regulate the transcription of genes within a cell by binding to interferon receptors on the regulated cell's surface, thereby preventing viral replication within the cells.

Based on the type of receptor through which they signal, interferons are typically divided among three classes: type I interferon (the type I interferons present in humans are IFNα, IFNβ , IFNε, IFNK and IFNco), type II interferon (IFNγ in humans), and type III interferon.

According to the disclosure, a type I interferon is preferably IFNa or IFN , more preferably IFNα. According to the disclosure, an interferon may be a naturally occurring interferon or a functional fragment or variant thereof. An interferon may be human interferon and may be derived from any vertebrate, especially any mammal.

Interleukins (ILs) are a group of cytokines (secreted proteins and signal molecules) that can be divided into four major groups based on distinguishing structural features. However, their amino acid sequence similarity is rather weak (typically 15-25% identity). The human genome encodes more than 50 interleukins and related proteins.

According to the disclosure, an interleukin may be a naturally occurring interleukin or a functional fragment or variant thereof. An interleukin may be human interleukin and may be derived from any vertebrate, especially any mammal. Immunostimulant polypeptides described herein can be prepared as fusion or chimeric polypeptides that include an immunostimulant portion and a heterologous polypeptide (i.e., a polypeptide that is not an immunostimulant). The immunostimulant may be fused to an extended- pharmacokinetic (PK) group, which increases circulation half-life. Non-limiting examples of extended-PK groups are serum albumin or fragments thereof or variants of the serum albumin or fragments thereof (e.g., HSA or fragments or variants thereof), Immunoglobulin Fc or Fc fragments and variants thereof, transferrin and variants thereof, and human serum albumin (HSA) binders (as disclosed in U.S. Publication Nos. 2005/0287153 and 2007/0003549). Other exemplary extended-PK groups are disclosed in Kontermann, Expert Opin Biol Ther, 2016 Jul; 16(7):903- 15 which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In some embodiments, a pharmaceutically active peptide or polypeptide comprises a replacement protein. In these embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method for treatment of a subject having a disorder requiring protein replacement (e.g., protein deficiency disorders) comprising administering to the subject RNA (in particular, mRNA) as described herein encoding a replacement protein. The term "protein replacement" refers to the introduction of a protein (including functional variants thereof) into a subject having a deficiency in such protein. The term also refers to the introduction of a protein into a subject otherwise requiring or benefiting from providing a protein, e.g., suffering from protein insufficiency. The term "disorder characterized by a protein deficiency" refers to any disorder that presents with a pathology caused by absent or insufficient amounts of a protein. This term encompasses protein folding disorders, i.e., conformational disorders, that result in a biologically inactive protein product. Protein insufficiency can be involved in infectious diseases, immunosuppression, organ failure, glandular problems, radiation illness, nutritional deficiency, poisoning, or other environmental or external insults.

The term "hormones" relates to a class of signaling molecules produced by glands, wherein signaling usually includes the following steps: (i) synthesis of a hormone in a particular tissue; (ii) storage and secretion; (iii) transport of the hormone to its target; (iv) binding of the hormone by a receptor; (v) relay and amplification of the signal; and (vi) breakdown of the hormone. Hormones differ from cytokines in that (1) hormones usually act in less variable concentrations and (2) generally are made by specific kinds of cells. In some embodiments, a "hormone" is a peptide or polypeptide hormone, such as insulin, vasopressin, prolactin, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), thyroid hormone, growth hormones (such as human grown hormone or bovine somatotropin), oxytocin, atrial-natriuretic peptide (ANP), glucagon, somatostatin, cholecystokinin, gastrin, and leptins.

The term "adhesion molecules" relates to proteins which are located on the surface of a cell and which are involved in binding of the cell with other cells or with the extracellular matrix (ECM). Adhesion molecules are typically transmembrane receptors and can be classified as calcium- independent (e.g., integrins, immunoglobulin superfamily, lymphocyte homing receptors) and calcium-dependent (cadherins and selectins). Particular examples of adhesion molecules are integrins, lymphocyte homing receptors, selectins (e.g., P-selectin), and addressins.

Integrins are also involved in signal transduction. In particular, upon ligand binding, integrins modulate cell signaling pathways, e.g., pathways of transmembrane protein kinases such as receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK). Such regulation can lead to cellular growth, division, survival, or differentiation or to apoptosis. Particular examples of integrins include: o β1, α2β1 , α3β1, α4β1 , α5β1, α6β1 , α7β1 , αLβ2, αLβ2, αIIbβ3, αvβ1, αvβ3, αvβ5 , αvβ6 , αvβ8, and α6β4.

The term "immunoglobulins" or "immunoglobulin superfamily" refers to molecules which are involved in the recognition, binding, and/or adhesion processes of cells. Molecules belonging to this superfamily share the feature that they contain a region known as immunoglobulin domain or fold. Members of the immunoglobulin superfamily include antibodies (e.g., IgG), T cell receptors (TCRs), major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules, co-receptors (e.g., CD4, CD8, CD19), antigen receptor accessory molecules (e.g., CD-3γ, CD3-δ, CD-3ε, CD79a, CD79b), co- stimulatory or inhibitory molecules (e.g., CD28, CD80, CD86), and other.

The term "immunologically active compound" relates to any compound altering an immune response, e.g., by inducing and/or suppressing maturation of immune cells, inducing and/or suppressing cytokine biosynthesis, and/or altering humoral immunity by stimulating antibody production by B cells. Immunologically active compounds possess potent immunostimulating activity including, but not limited to, antiviral and antitumor activity, and can also down-regulate other aspects of the immune response, for example shifting the immune response away from a TH2 immune response, which is useful for treating a wide range of TH2 mediated diseases. Immunologically active compounds can be useful as vaccine adjuvants. Particular examples of immunologically active compounds include interleukins, colony stimulating factor (CSF), granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), erythropoietin, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interferons, integrins, addressins, selectins, homing receptors, and antigens, in particular tumor-associated antigens, pathogen- associated antigens (such as bacterial, parasitic, or viral antigens), allergens, and autoantigens. An immunologically active compound may be a vaccine antigen, i.e., an antigen whose inoculation into a subject induces an immune response.

In some embodiments, RNA (in particular, mRNA) described in the present disclosure comprises a nucleic acid sequence encoding a peptide or polypeptide comprising an epitope for inducing an immune response against an antigen in a subject. The "peptide or polypeptide comprising an epitope for inducing an immune response against an antigen in a subject" is also designated herein as "vaccine antigen", "peptide and protein antigen" or simply "antigen".

In some embodiments, the RNA encoding the vaccine antigen is expressed in cells , e.g., muscle cells or antigen-presenting cells (APCs), of the subject to provide the vaccine antigen. In some embodiments, expression of the vaccine antigen is at the cell surface. In some embodiments, the vaccine antigen is presented in the context of MHC. In some embodiments, the RNA encoding the vaccine antigen is administered systemically, e.g., intravenously. In some embodiments, after systemic administration of the RNA encoding the vaccine antigen, expression of the RNA encoding the vaccine antigen in spleen occurs. In some embodiments, after systemic administration of the RNA encoding the vaccine antigen, expression of the RNA encoding the vaccine antigen in antigen presenting cells, preferably professional antigen presenting cells occurs. In some embodiments, the antigen presenting cells are selected from the group consisting of dendritic cells, macrophages and B cells. In some embodiments, the RNA encoding the vaccine antigen is administered intramuscularly.

The vaccine antigen comprises an epitope for inducing an immune response against an antigen in a subject. Accordingly, the vaccine antigen comprises an antigenic sequence for inducing an immune response against an antigen in a subject. Such antigenic sequence may correspond to a target antigen or disease-associated antigen, e.g., a protein of an infectious agent (e.g., viral or bacterial antigen) or tumor antigen, or may correspond to an immunogenic variant thereof, or an immunogenic fragment of the target antigen or disease-associated antigen or the immunogenic variant thereof. Thus, the antigenic sequence may comprise at least an epitope of a target antigen or disease-associated antigen or an immunogenic variant thereof. The antigenic sequence or a procession product thereof, e.g., a fragment thereof, may bind to the antigen receptor such as TCR or CAR carried by immune effector cells. In some embodiments, the antigenic sequence is selected from the group consisting of the antigen expressed by a target cell to which the immune effector cells are targeted or a fragment thereof, or a variant of the antigenic sequence or the fragment.

In some embodiments, the RNA encoding the vaccine antigen is expressed in cells of a subject to provide the antigen or a procession product thereof for binding by the antigen receptor expressed by immune effector cells, said binding resulting in stimulation, priming and/or expansion of the immune effector cells.

An "antigen" according to the present disclosure covers any substance that will elicit an immune response and/or any substance against which an immune response or an immune mechanism such as a cellular response and/or humoral response is directed. This also includes situations wherein the antigen is processed into antigen peptides and an immune response or an immune mechanism is directed against one or more antigen peptides, in particular if presented in the context of MHC molecules. In particular, an "antigen" relates to any substance, such as a peptide or polypeptide, that reacts specifically with antibodies or T-lymphocytes (T-cells). The term "antigen" may comprise a molecule that comprises at least one epitope, such as a T cell epitope. In some embodiments, an antigen is a molecule which, optionally after processing, induces an immune reaction, which may be specific for the antigen (including cells expressing the antigen). In some embodiments, an antigen is a disease-associated antigen, such as a tumor antigen, a viral antigen, or a bacterial antigen, or an epitope derived from such antigen.

The term "autoantigen" or "self-antigen" refers to an antigen which originates from within the body of a subject (z.e., the autoantigen can also be called "autologous antigen") and which produces an abnormally vigorous immune response against this normal part of the body. Such vigorous immune reactions against autoantigens maybe the cause of "autoimmune diseases".

According to the present disclosure, any suitable antigen may be used, which is a candidate for an immune response, wherein the immune response may comprise a humoral or cellular immune response, or both. In the context of some embodiments of the present disclosure, the antigen is presented by a cell, such as by an antigen presenting cell, in the context of MHC molecules, which results in an immune response against the antigen. An antigen may be a product which corresponds to or is derived from a naturally occurring antigen. Such naturally occurring antigens may include or may be derived from allergens, viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites and other infectious agents and pathogens or an antigen may also be a tumor antigen. According to the present disclosure, an antigen may correspond to a naturally occurring product, for example, a viral protein, or a part thereof.

The term "disease-associated antigen" is used in its broadest sense to refer to any antigen associated with a disease. A disease-associated antigen is a molecule which contains epitopes that will stimulate a host's immune system to make a cellular antigen-specific immune response and/or a humoral antibody response against the disease. Disease-associated antigens include pathogen- associated antigens, i.e., antigens which are associated with infection by microbes, typically microbial antigens (such as bacterial or viral antigens), or antigens associated with cancer, typically tumors, such as tumor antigens.

In some embodiments, the antigen is a tumor antigen, i.e., a part of a tumor cell, in particular those which primarily occur intracellularly or as surface antigens of tumor cells. In another embodiment, the antigen is a pathogen-associated antigen, i.e., an antigen derived from a pathogen, e.g., from a virus, bacterium, unicellular organism, or parasite, for example a viral antigen such as viral ribonucleoprotein or coat protein. In some embodiments, the antigen should be presented by MHC molecules which results in modulation, in particular activation of cells of the immune system, such as CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes, in particular via the modulation of the activity of a T-cell receptor.

The term "epitope" refers to an antigenic determinant in a molecule such as an antigen, i.e., to a part in or fragment of the molecule that is recognized by the immune system, for example, that is recognized by antibodies, T cells or B cells, in particular when presented in the context of MHC molecules. An epitope of a protein may comprises a continuous or discontinuous portion of said protein and, e.g., may be between about 5 and about 100, between about 5 and about 50, between about 8 and about 30, or about 10 and about 25 amino acids in length.

The term "T cell epitope" refers to a part or fragment of a protein that is recognized by a T cell when presented in the context of MHC molecules. The term "major histocompatibility complex" and the abbreviation "MHC" includes MHC class 1 and MHC class II molecules and relates to a complex of genes which is present in all vertebrates. According to some embodiments, an amino acid sequence enhancing antigen processing and/or presentation and/or an amino acid sequence which breaks immunological tolerance is fused, either directly or through a linker, to an antigenic peptide or polypeptide (antigenic sequence).

The terms "immune response" and "immune reaction" are used herein interchangeably in their conventional meaning and refer to an integrated bodily response to an antigen and may refer to a cellular immune response, a humoral immune response, or both. According to the disclosure, the term "immune response to" or "immune response against" with respect to an agent such as an antigen, cell or tissue, relates to an immune response such as a cellular response directed against the agent. An immune response may comprise one or more reactions selected from the group consisting of developing antibodies against one or more antigens and expansion of antigen-specific T-lymphocytes, such as CD4 ⁺ and CD8 ⁺ T-lymphocytes, e.g. CD8 ⁺ T-lymphocytes, which maybe detected in various proliferation or cytokine production tests in vitro.

The terms "vaccination" and "immunization" describe the process of treating an individual for therapeutic or prophylactic reasons and relate to the procedure of administering one or more immunogen(s) or antigen(s) or derivatives thereof, in particular in the form of RNA (especially mRNA) coding therefor, as described herein to an individual and stimulating an immune response against said one or more immunogen(s) or antigen(s) or cells characterized by presentation of said one or more immunogen(s) or antigen(s).

The term "allergen" refers to a kind of antigen which originates from outside the body of a subject (i.e., the allergen can also be called "heterologous antigen") and which produces an abnormally vigorous immune response in which the immune system of the subject fights off a perceived threat that would otherwise be harmless to the subject. "Allergies" are the diseases caused by such vigorous immune reactions against allergens. An allergen usually is an antigen which is able to stimulate a type-I hypersensitivity reaction in atopic individuals through immunoglobulin E (IgE) responses. Particular examples of allergens include allergens derived from peanut proteins (e.g., Ara h 2.02), ovalbumin, grass pollen proteins (e.g., Phi p 5), and proteins of dust mites (e.g., Der p 2).

The term "growth factors" refers to molecules which are able to stimulate cellular growth, proliferation, healing, and/or cellular differentiation. Typically, growth factors act as signaling molecules between cells. The term "growth factors" include particular cytokines and hormones which bind to specific receptors on the surface of their target cells. Examples of growth factors include bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), fibroblast growth factors (FGFs), vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs), such as VEGFA, epidermal growth factor (EGF), insulin-like growth factor, ephrins, macrophage colony-stimulating factor, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor, neuregulins, neurotrophins (e.g., brain- derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nerve growth factor (NGF)), placental growth factor (PGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), renalase (RNLS) (anti-apoptotic survival factor), T-cell growth factor (TCGF), thrombopoietin (TPO), transforming growth factors (transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-a), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-P)), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a). In some embodiments, a "growth factor" is a peptide or polypeptide growth factor.

The term "protease inhibitors" refers to molecules, in particular peptides or polypeptides, which inhibit the function of proteases. Protease inhibitors can be classified by the protease which is inhibited (e.g., aspartic protease inhibitors) or by their mechanism of action (e.g., suicide inhibitors, such as serpins). Particular examples of protease inhibitors include serpins, such as alpha 1 -antitrypsin, aprotinin, and bestatin.

The term "enzymes" refers to macromolecular biological catalysts which accelerate chemical reactions. Like any catalyst, enzymes are not consumed in the reaction they catalyze and do not alter the equilibrium of said reaction. Unlike many other catalysts, enzymes are much more specific. In some embodiments, an enzyme is essential for homeostasis of a subject, e.g., any malfunction (in particular, decreased activity which may be caused by any of mutation, deletion or decreased production) of the enzyme results in a disease. Examples of enzymes include herpes simplex virus type 1 thymidine kinase (HSV1-TK), hexosaminidase, phenylalanine hydroxylase, pseudocholinesterase, and lactase.

The term "receptors" refers to protein molecules which receive signals (in particular chemical signals called ligands) from outside a cell. The binding of a signal (e.g., ligand) to a receptor causes some kind of response of the cell, e.g., the intracellular activation of a kinase. Receptors include transmembrane receptors (such as ion channel-linked (ionotropic) receptors, G protein-linked (metabotropic) receptors, and enzyme-linked receptors) and intracellular receptors (such as cytoplasmic receptors and nuclear receptors). Particular examples of receptors include steroid hormone receptors, growth factor receptors, and peptide receptors (i.e., receptors whose ligands are peptides), such as P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (PSGL-1 ). The term "growth factor receptors" refers to receptors which bind to growth factors. The term "apoptosis regulators" refers to molecules, in particular peptides or polypeptides, which modulate apoptosis, i.e., which either activate or inhibit apoptosis. Apoptosis regulators can be grouped into two broad classes: those which modulate mitochondrial function and those which regulate caspases. The first class includes proteins (e.g., BCL-2, BCL-xL) which act to preserve mitochondrial integrity by preventing loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and/or release of pro-apoptotic proteins such as cytochrome C into the cytosol. Also to this first class belong proapoptotic proteins (e.g., BAX, BAK, BIM) which promote release of cytochrome C. The second class includes proteins such as the inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (e.g., XIAP) or FLIP which block the activation of caspases.

The term "transcription factors" relates to proteins which regulate the rate of transcription of genetic information from DNA to messenger RNA, in particular by binding to a specific DNA sequence. Transcription factors may regulate cell division, cell growth, and cell death throughout life; cell migration and organization during embryonic development; and/or in response to signals from outside the cell, such as a hormone. Transcription factors contain at least one DNA-binding domain which binds to a specific DNA sequence, usually adjacent to the genes which are regulated by the transcription factors. Particular examples of transcription factors include MECP2, FOXP2, FOXP3, the STAT protein family, and the HOX protein family.

The term "tumor suppressor proteins" relates to molecules, in particular peptides or polypeptides, which protect a cell from one step on the path to cancer. Tumor-suppressor proteins (usually encoded by corresponding tumor-suppressor genes) exhibit a weakening or repressive effect on the regulation of the cell cycle and/or promote apoptosis. Their functions may be one or more of the following: repression of genes essential for the continuing of the cell cycle; coupling the cell cycle to DNA damage (as long as damaged DNA is present in a cell, no cell division should take place); initiation of apoptosis, if the damaged DNA cannot be repaired; metastasis suppression (e.g., preventing tumor cells from dispersing, blocking loss of contact inhibition, and inhibiting metastasis); and DNA repair. Particular examples of tumor-suppressor proteins include p53, phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), SWI/SNF (SWItch/Sucrose Non-Fermentable), von Hippel-Lindau tumor suppressor (pVHL), adenomatous polyposis coli (APC), CD95, suppression of tumorigenicity 5 (ST5), suppression of tumorigenicity 5 (ST5), suppression of tumorigenicity 14 (STI 4), and Yippee-like 3 (YPEL3). The term "structural proteins" refers to proteins which confer stiffness and rigidity to otherwisefluid biological components. Structural proteins are mostly fibrous (such as collagen and elastin) but may also be globular (such as actin and tubulin). Usually, globular proteins are soluble as monomers, but polymerize to form long, fibers which, for example, may make up the cytoskeleton. Other structural proteins are motor proteins (such as myosin, kinesin, and dynein) which are capable of generating mechanical forces, and surfactant proteins. Particular examples of structural proteins include collagen, surfactant protein A, surfactant protein B, surfactant protein C, surfactant protein D, elastin, tubulin, actin, and myosin.

The term "reprogramming factors" or "reprogramming transcription factors" relates to molecules, in particular peptides or polypeptides, which, when expressed in somatic cells optionally together with further agents such as further reprogramming factors, lead to reprogramming or dedifferentiation of said somatic cells to cells having stem cell characteristics, in particular pluripotency. Particular examples of reprogramming factors include OCT4, SOX2, c-MYC, KLF4, LIN28, and NANOG.

The term "genomic engineering proteins" relates to proteins which are able to insert, delete or replace DNA in the genome of a subject. Particular examples of genomic engineering proteins include meganucleases, zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), and clustered regularly spaced short palindromic repeat-CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR-Cas9).

The term "blood proteins" relates to peptides or polypeptides which are present in blood plasma of a subject, in particular blood plasma of a healthy subject. Blood proteins have diverse functions such as transport (e.g., albumin, transferrin), enzymatic activity (e.g., thrombin or ceruloplasmin), blood clotting (e.g., fibrinogen), defense against pathogens (e.g., complement components and immunoglobulins), protease inhibitors (e.g., alpha 1 -antitrypsin), etc. Particular examples of blood proteins include thrombin, serum albumin, Factor VII, Factor VIII, insulin, Factor IX, Factor X, tissue plasminogen activator, protein C, von Willebrand factor, antithrombin III, glucocerebrosidase, erythropoietin, granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), modified Factor VIII, and anticoagulants.

Thus, in some embodiments, the pharmaceutically active peptide or polypeptide is (i) a cytokine, preferably selected from the group consisting of erythropoietin (EPO), interleukin 4 (IL-2), and interleukin 10 (IL-11), more preferably EPO; (ii) an adhesion molecule, in particular an integrin; (iii) an immunoglobulin, in particular an antibody; (iv) an immunologically active compound, in particular an antigen, such as a viral or bacterial antigen, e.g., an antigen of SARS-CoV-2, e.g., a spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2 or a variant thereof; (v) a hormone, in particular vasopressin, insulin or growth hormone; (vi) a growth factor, in particular VEGFA; (vii) a protease inhibitor, in particular alpha 1 -antitrypsin; (viii) an enzyme, preferably selected from the group consisting of herpes simplex virus type 1 thymidine kinase (HSV1-TK), hexosaminidase, phenylalanine hydroxylase, pseudocholinesterase, pancreatic enzymes, and lactase; (ix) a receptor, in particular growth factor receptors; (x) an apoptosis regulator, in particular BAX; (xi) a transcription factor, in particular FOXP3; (xii) a tumor suppressor protein, in particular p53; (xiii) a structural protein, in particular surfactant protein B; (xiv) a reprogramming factor, e.g., selected from the group consisting of OCT4, SOX2, c-MYC, KLF4, LIN28 and NANOG; (xv) a genomic engineering protein, in particular clustered regularly spaced short palindromic repeat-CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR-Cas9); and (xvi) a blood protein, in particular fibrinogen.

In some embodiments, a pharmaceutically active peptide or polypeptide comprises one or more antigens or one or more epitopes, i.e., administration of the peptide or polypeptide to a subject elicits an immune response against the one or more antigens or one or more epitopes in a subject which may be therapeutic or partially or fully protective.

In some embodiments, the RNA encodes at least one epitope, e.g., at least two epitopes, at least three epitopes, at least four epitopes, at least five epitopes, at least six epitopes, at least seven epitopes, at least eight epitopes, at least nine epitopes, or at least ten epitopes.

In some embodiments, the target antigen is a tumor antigen and the antigenic sequence (e.g., an epitope) is derived from the tumor antigen. The tumor antigen may be a "standard" antigen, which is generally known to be expressed in various cancers. The tumor antigen may also be a "neoantigen", which is specific to an individual’s tumor and has not been previously recognized by the immune system. A neo-antigen or neo-epitope may result from one or more cancer-specific mutations in the genome of cancer cells resulting in amino acid changes. If the tumor antigen is a neo-antigen, the vaccine antigen preferably comprises an epitope or a fragment of said neo-antigen comprising one or more amino acid changes.

In some embodiments, the antigen or epitope is derived from a coronavirus protein, an immunogenic variant thereof, or an immunogenic fragment of the coronavirus protein or the immunogenic variant thereof. Thus, in some embodiments, the RNA, e.g., mRNA, used in the present disclosure encodes an amino acid sequence comprising a coronavirus protein, an immunogenic variant thereof, or an immunogenic fragment of the coronavirus protein or the immunogenic variant thereof.

In some embodiments, the antigen or epitope is derived from a coronavirus S protein, an immunogenic variant thereof, or an immunogenic fragment of the coronavirus S protein or the immunogenic variant thereof. Thus, in some embodiments, the RNA (in particular, mRNA) described in the present disclosure encodes an amino acid sequence comprising a coronavirus S protein, an immunogenic variant thereof, or an immunogenic fragment of the coronavirus S protein or the immunogenic variant thereof. In some embodiments, the coronavirus is MERS- CoV. In some embodiments, the coronavirus is SARS-CoV. In some embodiments, the coronavirus is SARS-CoV-2.

[133] Recombinant: The term "recombinant", as used herein, means "made through genetic engineering". In some embodiments, a "recombinant object" in the context of the present disclosure is not occurring naturally.

[134] Reference/ Reference standard: As used herein, “reference” describes a standard or control relative to which a comparison is performed. For example, in some embodiments, an agent, animal, individual, population, sample, sequence or value of interest is compared with a reference or control agent, animal, individual, population, sample, sequence or value. In some embodiments, a reference or control is tested and/or determined substantially simultaneously with the testing or determination of interest. In some embodiments, a reference or control is a historical reference or control, optionally embodied in a tangible medium. In some embodiments, a reference or control is or comprises a set specification (e.g., relevant acceptance criteria). Typically, as would be understood by those skilled in the art, a reference or control is determined or characterized under comparable conditions or circumstances to those under assessment. Those skilled in the art will appreciate when sufficient similarities are present to justify reliance on and/or comparison to a particular possible reference or control.

[135] Ribonucleotide: As used herein, the term “ribonucleotide” encompasses unmodified ribonucleotides and modified ribonucleotides. For example, unmodified ribonucleotides include the purine bases adenine (A) and guanine (G), and the pyrimidine bases cytosine (C) and uracil (U). Modified ribonucleotides may include one or more modifications including, but not limited to, for example, (a) end modifications, e.g., 5' end modifications (e.g., phosphorylation, dephosphorylation, conjugation, inverted linkages, etc.), 3' end modifications (e.g., conjugation, inverted linkages, etc.), (b) base modifications, e.g. , replacement with modified bases, stabilizing bases, destabilizing bases, or bases that base pair with an expanded repertoire of partners, or conjugated bases, (c) sugar modifications (e.g., at the 2' position or 4' position) or replacement of the sugar, and (d) intemucleoside linkage modifications, including modification or replacement of the phosphodiester linkages. The term “ribonucleotide” also encompasses ribonucleotide triphosphates including modified and non-modified ribonucleotide triphosphates.

[136] Ribonucleic acid (RNA): As used herein, the term “RNA” refers to a polymer of ribonucleotides. In some embodiments, an RNA is single stranded. In some embodiments, an RNA is double stranded. In some embodiments, an RNA comprises both single and double stranded portions. In some embodiments, an RNA can comprise a backbone structure as described in the definition of “ Nucleic acid / Polynucleotide" above. An RNA can be a regulatory RNA (e.g., siRNA, microRNA, etc.), or a messenger RNA (mRNA). In some embodiments, an RNA is a mRNA. In some embodiments where an RNA is a mRNA, a RNA typically comprises at its 3’ end a poly(A) region. In some embodiments where an RNA is a mRNA, an RNA typically comprises at its 5’ end an art-recognized cap structure, e.g., for recognizing and attachment of a mRNA to a ribosome to initiate translation. In some embodiments, a RNA is a synthetic RNA. Synthetic RNAs include RNAs that are synthesized in vitro (e.g., by enzymatic synthesis methods and/or by chemical synthesis methods).

[137] Secretion signal: As used herein, the term "secretion signal" or "signal peptide" refers to an amino acid sequence present in a polypeptide that can target the polypeptide towards the secretory pathway. Typically, the secretion signal is cleaved after translocation into the endoplasmic reticulum following translation of an RNA. Typically, a secretion signal is a short (e.g., 5-30, 5-25, 5-20, 5-15, or 5-10 amino acids long) peptide. A secretion signal may be present at the N-terminus of a polypeptide.

[138] Selective or specific: The term “selective” or “specific”, when used herein in reference to an agent having an activity, is understood by those skilled in the art to mean that the agent discriminates between potential target entities, states, or cells. For example, in some embodiments, an agent is said to bind “specifically” to its target if it binds preferentially with that target in the presence of one or more competing alternative targets. In many embodiments, specific interaction is dependent upon the presence of a particular structural feature of the target entity (e.g., an epitope, a cleft, a binding site). It is to be understood that specificity need not be absolute. In some embodiments, specificity may be evaluated relative to that of a target-binding moiety for one or more other potential target entities (e.g., competitors). In some embodiments, specificity is evaluated relative to that of a reference specific binding moiety. In some embodiments, specificity is evaluated relative to that of a reference non-specific binding moiety. In some embodiments, a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent encoded by one or more RNAs (e.g, ones described herein) does not detectably bind to a competing alternative target (e.g., CLDN18.1 polypeptide) under conditions of binding to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide. In some embodiments, a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent binds with higher on-rate, lower off- rate, increased affinity, decreased dissociation, and/or increased stability to CLDN-18.2 polypeptide as compared with its competing alternative target(s), including, e.g., CLDN18.1 polypeptide.

[139] Specific binding: As used herein, the term “specific binding” refers to an ability to discriminate between possible binding partners in the environment in which binding is to occur. An antibody agent that interacts with one particular target when other potential targets are present is said to "bind specifically" to the target with which it interacts. In some embodiments, specific binding is assessed by detecting or determining degree of association between CDRs of an antibody agent and their partners; in some embodiments, specific binding is assessed by detecting or determining degree of dissociation of an antibody agent-partner complex; in some embodiments, specific binding is assessed by detecting or determining ability of an antibody agent to compete an alternative interaction between its partner and another entity. In some embodiments, specific binding is assessed by performing such detections or determinations across a range of concentrations.

[140] Subject'. As used herein, the term “subject” refers to an organism to be administered with a composition described herein, e.g., for experimental, diagnostic, prophylactic, and/or therapeutic purposes. Typical subjects include animals (e.g., mammals such as mice, rats, rabbits, non-human primates, domestic pets, etc.) and humans. In some embodiments, a subject is a human subject. In some embodiments, a subject is suffering from a disease, disorder, or condition (e.g., cancer). In some embodiments, a subject is susceptible to a disease, disorder, or condition (e.g., cancer). In some embodiments, a subject displays one or more symptoms or characteristics of a disease, disorder, or condition (e.g., cancer). In some embodiments, a subject displays one or more non-specific symptoms of a disease, disorder, or condition (e.g., cancer). In some embodiments, a subject does not display any symptom or characteristic of a disease, disorder, or condition (e.g., cancer). In some embodiments, a subject is someone with one or more features characteristic of susceptibility to or risk of a disease, disorder, or condition (e.g., cancer). In some embodiments, a subject is a patient. In some embodiments, a subject is an individual to whom diagnosis and/or therapy is and/or has been administered.

[141] Susceptible to: An individual who is “susceptible to” a disease, disorder, or condition is at risk for developing the disease, disorder, or condition. In some embodiments, an individual who is susceptible to a disease, disorder, or condition does not display any symptoms of the disease, disorder, or condition. In some embodiments, an individual who is susceptible to a disease, disorder, or condition has not been diagnosed with the disease, disorder, and/or condition. In some embodiments, an individual who is susceptible to a disease, disorder, or condition is an individual who has been exposed to conditions associated with development of the disease, disorder, or condition. In some embodiments, a risk of developing a disease, disorder, and/or condition is a population-based risk (e.g., family members of individuals suffering from the disease, disorder, or condition; carrier of a genetic marker or other biomarker associated with the disease, disorder or condition, etc.).

[142] Suffering from: An individual who is “suffering from” a disease, disorder, and/or condition has been diagnosed with and/or displays one or more symptoms of a disease, disorder, and/or condition.

[143] Synthetic: As used herein, the term “synthetic” refers to an entity that is artificial, or that is made with human intervention, or that results from synthesis rather than naturally occurring. For example, in some embodiments, a synthetic nucleic acid or polynucleotide refers to a nucleic acid molecule that is chemically synthesized, e.g., in some embodiments by solidphase synthesis. In some embodiments, the term “synthetic” refers to an entity that is made outside of biological cells. For example, in some embodiments, a synthetic nucleic acid or polynucleotide refers to a nucleic acid molecule (e.g., an RNA) that is produced by in vitro transcription using a template.

|144] Therapeutic agent: As used interchangeably herein, the phrase “therapeutic agent” or “therapy” refers to an agent or intervention that, when administered to a subject or a patient, has a therapeutic effect and/or elicits a desired biological and/or pharmacological effect. In some embodiments, a therapeutic agent or therapy is any substance that can be used to alleviate, ameliorate, relieve, inhibit, prevent, delay onset of, reduce severity of, and/or reduce incidence of one or more symptoms or features of a disease, disorder, and/or condition. In some embodiments, a therapeutic agent or therapy is a medical intervention (e.g., surgery, radiation, phototherapy) that can be performed to alleviate, relieve, inhibit, present, delay onset of, reduce severity of, and/or reduce incidence of one or more symptoms or features of a disease, disorder, and/or condition.

[145] Three prime untranslated region '. As used herein, the terms "three prime untranslated region" or "3' UTR" refer to the sequence of an mRNA molecule that begins following the stop codon of the coding region of an open reading frame sequence. In some embodiments, the 3' UTR begins immediately after the stop codon of the coding region of an open reading frame sequence. In other embodiments, the 3' UTR does not begin immediately after stop codon of the coding region of an open reading frame sequence

[146] Threshold level (e.g., acceptance criteria). ' As used herein, the term “threshold level” refers to a level that are used as a reference to attain information on and/or classify the results of a measurement, for example, the results of a measurement attained in an assay. For example, in some embodiments, a threshold level means a value measured in an assay that defines the dividing line between two subsets of a population (e.g. a batch that satisfy quality control criteria vs. a batch that does not satisfy quality control criteria). Thus, a value that is equal to or higher than the threshold level defines one subset of the population, and a value that is lower than the threshold level defines the other subset of the population. A threshold level can be determined based on one or more control samples or across a population of control samples. A threshold level can be determined prior to, concurrently with, or after the measurement of interest is taken. In some embodiments, a threshold level can be a range of values. [147] Transfection: As used herein, the term "transfection" relates to the introduction of nucleic acids, in particular RNA, into a cell. For purposes of the present disclosure, the term "transfection" also includes the introduction of a nucleic acid into a cell or the uptake of a nucleic acid by such cell, wherein the cell may be present in a subject, e.g., a patient, or the cell may be in vitro, e.g., outside of a patient. Thus, according to the present disclosure, a cell for transfection of a nucleic acid described herein can be present in vitro or in vivo, e.g. the cell can form part of an organ, a tissue and/or the body of a patient. According to the disclosure, transfection can be transient or stable. For some applications of transfection, it is sufficient if the transfected genetic material is only transiently expressed. RNA can be transfected into cells to transiently express its coded protein. Since the nucleic acid introduced in the transfection process is usually not integrated into the nuclear genome, the foreign nucleic acid will be diluted through mitosis or degraded. Cells allowing episomal amplification of nucleic acids greatly reduce the rate of dilution. If it is desired that the transfected nucleic acid actually remains in the genome of the cell and its daughter cells, a stable transfection must occur. Such stable transfection can be achieved by using virus-based systems or transposon-based systems for transfection, for example. RNA can be transfected into cells to transiently express its coded protein.

[148] Treat: As used herein, the term “treat,” “treatment,” or “treating” refers to any method used to partially or completely alleviate, ameliorate, relieve, inhibit, prevent, delay onset of, reduce severity of, and/or reduce incidence of one or more symptoms or features of a disease, disorder, and/or condition. Treatment may be administered to a subject who does not exhibit signs of a disease, disorder, and/or condition. In some embodiments, treatment may be administered to a subject who exhibits only early signs of the disease, disorder, and/or condition, for example for the purpose of decreasing the risk of developing pathology associated with the disease, disorder, and/or condition. In some embodiments, treatment may be administered to a subject at a later-stage of disease, disorder, and/or condition.

[149] Unresectable tumor. As used herein, the term “unresectable tumor” typically refers to a tumor characterized by one or more features that, in accordance with sound medical judgement, are considered to indicate that the tumor cannot safely (e.g., without undue harm to the subject) be removed by surgery, and/or with respect to which a competent medical profession has determined that risk to the subject of tumor removal outweighs benefits associated with such removal. In some embodiments, an unresectable tumor refers to a tumor that involves and/or has grown into an essential organ or tissue (including blood vessels that may not be reconstructable) and/or that is otherwise in a location that cannot readily be surgically accessed without unreasonable risk of damage to one or more other critical or essential organs and/or tissues (including blood vessels).. In some embodiments, “unresectability” of a tumor refers to the likelihood of achieving a margin-negative (RO) resection. In the context of pancreatic cancer, encasement of major vessels by a tumor such as superior mesenteric artery (SMA) or celiac axis, portal vein occlusion, and the presence of celiac or para-aortic lymphadenopathy are generally acknowledged as findings that preclude RO surgery. Those skilled in the art will understand parameters that determine whether a tumor is unresectable or not.

[150] Those skilled in the art, reading the present specification, will appreciate that, in many embodiments, standard techniques are available and may be used for recombinant DNA, oligonucleotide synthesis, tissue culture and/or transformation (e.g., electroporation, lipofection, transfection). Enzymatic reactions and/or purification techniques may typically be performed according to manufacturer's specifications or as commonly accomplished in the art or as described herein. In many embodiments, foregoing techniques and procedures may be generally performed according to conventional methods well known in the art and as described in various general and more specific references that are cited and discussed throughout the present specification. See e.g., Sambrook et al., Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual (2d ed., Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y. (1989)), which is incorporated herein by reference for any purpose.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS

[151] Outcomes of Standard of Care (SOC) therapy remain poor for many cancer patients, and particularly for those with relapsed or refractory advanced solid tumors. Treatment options typically include further palliative chemotherapy, which might be less tolerated after previous repeated exposure to cytotoxic compounds, or best supportive care, and investigational treatments without proven benefit. Therapy in this population is not curative, with an expected overall survival of a few months. Immunotherapy has emerged as an effective treatment option in some cancers with high unmet medical need. Specifically, immune checkpoint inhibitors are approved for treatment across various cancer indications and act by invigorating pre-existent anti-tumor-specific T cells. The medical need is still high for various cancer types. The present disclosure, among other things, provides insights and technologies for treating cancer (e.g., pancreatic cancer and/or biliary cancer) with a therapy targeting Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2).

[152] In some embodiments, the present disclosure, among other things, provides RNA technologies to deliver a monoclonal antibody targeting CLDN-18.2 that combines both potent anti-tumoral features and an excellent safety profile, skipping the hurdle of slow and cumbersome antibody manufacturing process. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the present disclosure proposes that such RNA delivering modality may achieve one or more improvements such as effective administration with reduced incidence e.g. , frequency and/or severity) of treatment emergent adverse events (“TEAEs”), and/or with improved relationship between efficacy level and TEAE level (e.g., improved therapeutic window) relative to those observed when a corresponding (e.g., encoded) protein (e.g., antibody) agent itself is administered. In particular, the present disclosure teaches that such improvements in particular may be achieved by delivering IMAB362 via administration of RNA(s) (e.g., ssRNA(s) such as mRNA(s))) encoding it.

[153] In some embodiments, the present disclosure, among other things, provides insights that mRNA(s) encoding an antibody agent (e.g., IMAB362) or a functional portion thereof, optionally formulated with lipid nanoparticles (LNP) for intravenous (IV) administration to a subject (e.g., a human patient, a model organism, etc.), can be taken up by target cells (e.g., liver cells) for efficient production of the encoded antibody agent (e.g., IMAB362) at therapeutically relevant plasma concentrations, for example, as illustrated in Figure 14 for a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent expressed from RNAs (e.g., ones described herein). In some embodiments, antibody agents are expressed from mRNA, e.g., engineered for minimal immunogenicity, and/or formulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). In some embodiments, mRNA that encodes an antibody agent may comprise modified nucleotides (e.g., but not limited to pseudouridine and/or 1-methyl-pseudouridine).

[154] Moreover, the present disclosure, among other things, provides an insight that the capability of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent delivered as described herein can induce antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and/or complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) against target cells (e.g., tumor cells) while leveraging immune system of recipient subjects can augment cytotoxic effect(s) of chemotherapy and/or other anti-cancer therapy. In some embodiments, such a combination therapy may prolong progression- free and/or overall survival, e.g., relative to the individual therapies administered alone and/or to another appropriate reference.

[155] Without wishing to be bound by a particular theory, the present disclosure observes that certain chemotherapeutic agents, for example such as gemcitabine, oxaliplatin, and 5-fluorouracil were shown to upregulate existing CLDN-18.2 expression levels in pancreatic cancer cell lines; moreover, these agents were not observed to increase de novo expression in CLDN-18.2 -negative cell lines. See, for example, Tureci et al., (2019) “Characterization of Zolbetuximab in pancreatic cancer models.” In Oncoimmunology 8 (1), pp. el 523096.

[156] The present disclosure, among other things, provides an insight that CLDN-18.2- targeted therapy as described herein may be particularly useful and/or effective when administered to tumor(s) (e.g., tumor cells, subjects in whom such tumor(s) and/or tumor cell(s) are suspected and/or have been detected, etc.) characterized by (e.g., that have been determined to display and/or that are expected or predicted to display) elevated expression and/or activity of CLDN-18.2 expression in tumor cells (e.g., as may result or have resulted from exposure to one or more chemotherapeutic agents). Indeed, among other things, the present disclosure teaches that provided CLDN-18.2-targeted therapy (e.g., administration of RNA and, more particularly an mRNA encoding a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent) as described herein may provide synergistic therapeutic when administered in combination with (e.g., to a subject who has received and/or is receiving or has otherwise been exposed to) one or more CDLN-18.2- enhancing agents (e.g., one or more certain chemotherapeutic agents). Accordingly, in some embodiments, CLDN-18.2-targeted therapy as described herein can be useful in combination with other anti-cancer agents that are expected to and/or have been demonstrated to up-regulate CLDN-18.2 expression and/or activity in tumor cells.

[157] Accordingly, the present disclosure, among other things, provides insights and technologies for treating cancer, particularly, cancers that are associated with expression of CLDN-18.2. In some embodiments, provided technologies are effective for treatment of pancreatic cancers. In some embodiments, provided technologies are effective for treatment of gastric or gastro-esophageal cancers. In some embodiments, provided technologies are effective for treatment of biliary cancers. In some embodiments, provided technologies are effective for treatment of ovarian cancers. In some embodiments, provided technologies are effective when applied to locally advanced tumors. In some embodiments, provided technologies are effective when applied to unresectable tumors. In some embodiments, provided technologies are effective when applied to metastatic tumors.

I. CIaudin-18.2 polypeptide

[158] Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2) is a cancer-associated splice variant of Claudin-18. CLDN-18.2 is a member of the Claudin family of more than 20 structurally related proteins that are involved in the formation of tight junctions in epithelia and endothelia.

[159] CLDN18 expression in healthy tissues. Claudinl 8.2 is a 27.8 kDa protein with four membrane-spanning domains and two small extracellular loops (Niimi et al. 2001). CLDN- 18.2 is a tight junction molecule of the gastric epithelia. Gastric tight junctions are highly specialized on repelling gastric acid, which may injure the gastric lining.

[160] CLDN-18.2 is a highly selective gastric lineage antigen (Sahin et al. 2008). Typically, its expression is restricted to short-lived differentiated cells of gastric epithelia in the pit and base regions of gastric glands. The stem cell zone, from which differentiated epithelial cells of the gastric glands are continuously replenished, is CLDN-18.2-negative. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is commonly believed that no other normal cell type of the human body expresses CLDN-18.2 at transcript level or at protein level.

[161] CLDN18 expression in cancer. CLDN-18.2 is expressed in various human cancers including gastric, gastroesophageal (GE) and pancreatic cancers (PC) (Karanjawala et al. 2008; Coati et al. 2019) and precancerous lesions (Woll et al. 2014; Tanaka et al. 2011). Tumor- associated expression of CLDN-18.2 has also been detected in ovarian (Sahin et al. 2008), biliary (Shinozaki et al. 2011) and lung cancers (Micke et al. 2014).

[162] About 77% of primary gastric adenocarcinomas (GAC) are CLDN-18.2+ . 56% of GAC display strong CLDN-18.2 expression defined as staining intensity > 2+ by immunohistochemical analysis in at least 60% of tumor cells. CLDN-18.2 expression is more frequent in diffuse than in intestinal gastric cancers. The CLDN-18.2 protein is also frequently detected in lymph node metastases of gastric cancer and in distant metastases into the ovaries (so-called Krukenberg tumors). Moreover, 50% of esophageal adenocarcinomas display significant expression of CLDN-18.2.

[163] In pancreatic cancer, CLDN-18.2 is expressed with a prevalence of 60-90% in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) (Karanjawala et al. 2008; Woll et al. 2014). PDAC, accounting for over 80% of all pancreatic neoplasms, is the seventh most frequent cancer in Europe and fourth of cancer-related causes of death in the European Union (Ferlay et al. 2010; Jemal et al. 2011; Seufferlein et al. 2012). Almost 60% of patients with PDAC express membrane-bound CLDN-18.2 and in 20% of patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms CLDN-18.2 is ectopically activated. CLDN-18.2 is expressed in primary and metastatic PDAC lesions (Wbll et al. 2014).

[164] Down-regulation of CLDN-18.2 by siRNA technology has shown to result in inhibition of proliferation of gastric cancer cells (Niimi et al. 2001), indicating an involvement in proliferation of CLDN-18.2+ tumor cells.

[165] Exemplary sequences of CLDN-18.2 (SEQ ID NO: 32) and the splice variant CLDN18.1 (SEQ ID NO: 33) are shown below: MAVTACQGLGFWSLIGIAGIIAATCMDQWSTQDLYNNPVTAVFNYQGLWRSCVRESSGF TECRGYFTLLGLPAMLQAVRALMIVGIVLGAIGLLVSIFALKCIRIGSMEDSAKANMTLT SGIMFIVSGLCAIAGVSVFANMLVTNFWMSTANMYTGMGGMVQTVQTRYTFGAALFVGWV AGGLTLIGGVMMCIACRGLAPEETNYKAVSYHASGHSVAYKPGGFKASTGFGSNTKNKKI YDGGARTEDEVQSYPSKHDYV (SEQ ID NO : 32 )

MSTTTCQWAFLLSILGLAGCIAATGMDMWSTQDLYDNPVTSVFQYEGLWRSCVRQSS GF TECRPYFTILGLPAMLQAVRALMIVGIVLGAIGLLVSIFALKCIRIGSMEDSAKANMTLT SGIMFIVSGLCAIAGVSVFANMLVTNFWMSTANMYTGMGGMVQTVQTRYTFGAALFVGWV AGGLTLIGGVMMCIACRGLAPEETNYKAVSYHASGHSVAYKPGGFKASTGFGSNTKNKKI YDGGARTEDEVQSYPSKHDYV ( SEQ ID NO : 33 )

II. Exemplary antibody agents targeting Claudin-18.2 polypeptides

[166] In some embodiments, an antibody agent targeting CLDN-18.2 specifically binds to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide. In some embodiments, an antibody agent targeting CLDN-18.2 specifically binds to a first extracellular domain (ECD1) of a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide. For example, in some embodiments, such an antibody agent specifically binds to an epitope of ECD 1 that is exposed in cancer cells. In some embodiments, such an antibody agent may have a binding affinity (e.g., as measured by a dissociation constant) for a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide, e.g., an epitope of ECD 1 of a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide) of at least about 10 -M, at least about 10 ^-5 M, at least about 10 ^-6 M, at least about 10 ^-7 M, at least about 10 ^-8 M, at least about 10 ^-9 M, or lower. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, in some cases, binding affinity (e.g., as measured by a dissociation constant) may be influenced by non-covalent intermolecular interactions such as hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interactions, hydrophobic and Van der Waals forces between the two molecules. Alternatively or additionally, binding affinity between a ligand and its target molecule may be affected by the presence of other molecules. Those skilled in the art will be familiar with a variety of technologies for measuring binding affinity and/or dissociation constants in accordance with the present disclosure, including, e.g., but not limited to ELISAs, gel-shift assays, pull-down assays, equilibrium dialysis, analytical ultracentrifugation, surface plasmon resonance (SPR), bio-layer interferometry, grating-coupled interferometry, and spectroscopic assays.

[167] In some embodiments, an antibody targeting CLDN-18.2 may bind specifically to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide relative to a CLDN18.1 polypeptide. In some embodiments, an antibody targeting CLDN-18.2 does not bind to any other claudin family member including the closely related splice variant 1 of Claudin-18 (CLDN18.1) that is predominantly expressed in tissues, e.g., lung.

[168] In some embodiments, an antibody agent targeting CLDN-18.2 may be any one of CLDN-18.2-targeting antibodies described in WO 2007/059997, WO2008/145338, and W02013/174510, the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for the purposes described herein.

[169] In some embodiments, an antibody agent targeting CLDN-18.2 comprises (a) a variable heavy chain domain having at least one CDR (including, e.g., 1 CDR, 2 CDRs, and 3 CDRs) selected from the group consisting of: (i) CDR1 represented by amino acid residues (GYTFTSYW); (ii) CDR2 represented by amino acid residues (IYPSDSYT); and (iii) CDR3 represented by amino acid residues (TRSWRGNSFDY); and/or (b) a variable light chain domain having at least one CDR (including, e.g., 1 CDR, 2 CDRs, and 3 CDRs) selected from the group consisting of (i) CDR1 represented by amino acid residues (QSLLNSGNQKNY); (ii) CDR2 represented by amino acid residues (WAS); and (iii) CDR3 represented by amino acid residues (QNDYSYPFT).

[170] In some embodiments, an antibody agent targeting CLDN-18.2 has a heavy chain amino acid sequence and a light chain amino acid sequence, that is or includes relevant sequences (e.g., variable region sequences, e.g., CDR and/or framework (FR) sequences) as described in U.S. 9,751,934. For example, in some embodiments, an antibody agent targeting CLDN-18.2 has a heavy chain consisting of or comprising an amino acid sequence represented by amino acid residues 20-467 of SEQ ID NO: 1 as set forth below (wherein SEQ ID NO: 1 here corresponds to SEQ ID NO: 118 of U.S. 9,751,934 and the underlined amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 corresponds to a secretion signal sequence), and a light chain consisting of or comprising an amino acid represented by amino acid residues 21-240 of SEQ ID NO: 2 as set forth below (wherein SEQ ID NO: 2 here corresponds to SEQ ID NO: 125 of U.S. 9,751,934 and the underlined amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2 corresponds to a secretion signal sequence).

MGWS C 11 L FL VATATGVHS QVQLQQPGAELVRPGAS VKL S CKASGYTFTS YW INWVKQRP GQGLEWIGNIYPSDSYTNYNQKFKDKATLTVDKSSSTAYMQLSSPTSEDSAVYYCTRSWR GNSFDYWGQGTTLTVSSASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEPVTVSWNS GALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSWTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDKKVEPKSC DKTHTCPPCPAPELLGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCVWDVSHEDPEVKFNWYVD GVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRWSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIEKTISKAK GQPREPQVYTLPPSRDELTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKTTPPVLDS DGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK (SEQ ID NO : 1 )

MESQTQVLMSLLFWVSGTCGDIVMTQSPSS LTVTAGEKVTMS CKS SQSLLNSGNQKNYLT WYQQKPGQPPKLLIYWASTRESGVPDRFTGSGSGTDFTLTISSVQAEDLAVYYCQNDYSY PFTFGSGTKLEIKRTVAAPSVFIFPPSDEQLKSGTASWCLLNNFYPREAKVQWKVDNAL QSGNSQESVTEQDSKDSTYSLSSTLTLSKADYEKHKVYACEVTHQGLSSPVTKSFNRGEC ( SEQ ID NO : 2 )

1171] In some embodiments, an antibody agent targeting CLDN-18.2 comprises (a) a variable heavy chain domain having at least one CDR (including, e.g., 1 CDR, 2 CDRs, and 3 CDRs) selected from the group consisting of: (i) CDR1 represented by amino acid residues 45- 52 of SEQ ID NO: 1 ; (ii) CDR2 represented by amino acid residues 70-77 of SEQ ID NO: 1; and (iii) CDR3 represented by amino acid residues 116-126 of SEQ ID NO: 1 ; and/or (b) a variable light chain domain having at least one CDR (including, e.g., 1 CDR, 2 CDRs, and 3 CDRs) selected from the group consisting of (i) CDR1 represented by amino acid residues 47-58 of SEQ ID NO: 2; (ii) CDR2 represented by amino acid residues 76-78 of SEQ ID NO: 2; and (iii) CDR3 represented by amino acid residues 115-123 of SEQ ID NO: 2.

[172] In some embodiments, an antibody agent targeting CLDN-18.2 comprises a variable heavy chain domain comprising the amino acid sequence SEQ ID NO: 14, and a variable light chain domain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 15.

QVQLQQPGAELVRPGAS VKLSCKASGYTFTSYWINWVKQRPGQGLEWIGNIYPSDSYTNYNQKFKDKATL TVDKSSSTAYMQLSSPTSEDSAVYYCTRSWRGNSFDYWGQGTTLTVSS ( SEQ ID NO : 14 ) DIVMTQSPSSLTVTAGEKVTMSCKSSQSLLNSGNQKNYLTWYQQKPGQPPKLLIYWASTR ESGVPDRFTG

SGSGTDFTLTISSVQAEDLAVYYCQNDYSYPFTFGSGTKLEIK (SEQ ID NO : 15 )

[173J In some embodiments, an antibody agent targeting CLDN-18.2 has a heavy chain consisting of or comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 and a light chain consisting of or comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.

[174] In some embodiments, an antibody agent targeting CLDN-18.2 can be engineered to decrease potential immunogenicity and/or improve secretion. For example, in some embodiments, a murine secretion signal sequence of an antibody agent targeting CLDN-18.2 can be replaced by a human one.

[175] In some embodiments, an antibody agent targeting CLDN-18.2 has a heavy chain consisting of or comprising an amino acid sequence represented by amino acid residues 27-474 of SEQ ID NO: 3 as set forth below (wherein the underlined amino acid sequence corresponds to a secretion signal sequence); and a light chain consisting of or comprising an amino acid represented by amino acid residues 27-246 of SEQ ID NO: 4 as set forth below (wherein the underlined amino acid sequence corresponds to a secretion signal sequence).

MRVMAPRTLILLLSGALALTETWAGSQVQLQQPGAELVRPGASVKLSCKASGYTFTS YWI NWVKQRPGQGLEWIGNIYPSDSYTNYNQKFKDKATLTVDKSSSTAYMQLSSPTSEDSAVY YCTRSWRGNSFDYWGQGTTLTVSSASTKGPSVFPLAPSSKSTSGGTAALGCLVKDYFPEP VTVSWNSGALTSGVHTFPAVLQSSGLYSLSSWTVPSSSLGTQTYICNVNHKPSNTKVDK RVEPKSCDKTHTCPPCPAPELLGGPSVFLFPPKPKDTLMISRTPEVTCWVDVSHEDPEV KFNWYVDGVEVHNAKTKPREEQYNSTYRWSVLTVLHQDWLNGKEYKCKVSNKALPAPIE KTISKAKGQPREPQVYTLPPSREEMTKNQVSLTCLVKGFYPSDIAVEWESNGQPENNYKT TPPVLDSDGSFFLYSKLTVDKSRWQQGNVFSCSVMHEALHNHYTQKSLSLSPGK (SEQ ID NO : 3 )

MRVMAPRTLILLLSGALALTETWAGSDI VMTQS PS S LTVTAGE KVTMS CKS SQSLLNSGN QKNYLTWYQQKPGQPPKLLIYWASTRESGVPDRFTGSGSGTDFTLTISSVQAEDLAVYYC QNDYSYPFTFGSGTKLEIKRTVAAPSVFIFPPSDEQLKSGTASWCLLNNFYPREAKVQW KVDNALQSGNSQESVTEQDSKDSTYSLSSTLTLSKADYEKHKVYACEVTHQGLSSPVTKS FNRGEC ( SEQ ID NO : 4 )

[176] In some embodiments, an antibody agent targeting CLDN-18.2 has a heavy chain consisting of or comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3 and a light chain consisting of or comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4.

[177] In some embodiments, an antibody agent targeting CLDN-18.2 comprises one or more Fc regions which have at their C-terminus a lysine. The origin of this lysine is a naturally occurring sequence found in humans from which these Fc regions are derived. During cell culture production of recombinant antibodies, this terminal lysine can be cleaved off by proteolysis by endogenous carboxypeptidase(s), resulting in a constant region having the same sequence but lacking the C-terminal lysine. Antibodies produced from nucleic acid sequences that either do, or do not encode a terminal lysine are substantially identical in sequence and in function since the degree of processing of the terminal lysine is typically high when e.g. using antibodies produced in CHO-based production systems (Dick, L.W. et al. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2008; 100: 1132-1143). Hence, it is understood that proteins in accordance with the invention, such as antibodies, can be generated with or without encoding or having a terminal lysine. It is also understood in accordance with the invention that, sequences with a tenninal lysine, such as a constant region sequence having a terminal lysine, can be understood as the corresponding sequences without a terminal lysine, and that sequences without a tenninal lysine can also be understood as the corresponding sequences with a terminal lysine.

[178] In some embodiments, an antibody targeting CLDN-18.2 is IMAB362 (also known as Zolbetuximab, Claudiximab). IMAB362, an antibody targeting CLDN-18.2, is in advanced clinical development (NCT01630083, NCT03816163, NCT03653507, NCT03505320, NCT03504397) and known in the art (see, e.g., Sahin et al. 2018; Sahin et al. 2017; Al-Batran et al. 2017a; Al-Batran et al. 2017b; Tiireci et al. 2019; Trarbach et al. 2014; Morlock et al. 2018a; Schuler et al. 2016; Lordick et al. 2016; Morlock et al. 2018b). Its target CLDN-18.2 is a highly selective tumor-associated surface marker.

[179] IMAB362, developed by Ganymed Pharmaceuticals GmbH and acquired by Astellas Pharma Inc., is a full IgGl antibody targeting the tight junction protein CLDN-18.2 and mediates cell death through antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complementdependent cytotoxicity (CDC). IMAB362 recognizes the first extracellular domain (ECD1) of CLDN-18.2 with high affinity and specificity (Sahin et al. 2008; Tiireci et al. 2011). The epitope is not accessible in normal epithelial barriers to the antibody. Disruption of tight junctions and loss of cell polarization are early hallmarks of cancer. In this process, the epitope of IMAB362 is exposed. IMAB362 does not bind to any other claudin family member including the closely related splice variant 1 of Claudin 18 (CLDN18.1) that is predominantly expressed in tissues, e.g., lung.

[180] IMAB362 plus epirubicin, oxaliplatin, and capecitabine (EOX) were tested in phase 2 FAST trial (NCT01630083) against EOX in first-line patients with gastric and gastro- esophageal cancer (Morlock et al. 2018a; Schuler et al. 2016; Al-Batran et al. 2016; Lordick et al. 2016; Morlock et al. 2018b). The FAST patient population included patients whose tumors had > 40% of tumor cells expressing CLDN-18.2 with a moderate-to-strong (> 2+) staining intensity. The subset of patients whose tumors had > 70% of tumor cells with > 2+ CLDN-18.2 staining intensity derived the greatest benefit from IMAB362 treatment at the 800/600 mg/kg ² dose with near-doubling of their median overall survival (OS) (Al-Batran et al. 2016; Lordick et al. 2016). The benefit of IMAB362 in OS in the > 70% CLDN-18.2 expression (+33.1 weeks; p < 0.0005) was accompanied by a significant delay in central independent reviewed progression (+14.5 weeks; p < 0.0005) and a higher objective response rate (ORR) (35.1% vs 27.1%). Addition of IMAB362 to EOX did not negatively impact patient-related outcome. No significant differences between the treatment arms were observed in the Mixed effect Model Repeat Measurement for global health state or total STO22 score throughout the study, but IMAB362 plus EOX significantly delayed deterioration of the global health score by 2.6 months vs EOX alone (p = 0.008).

[181] IMAB362 is also tested by Astellas Pharma Inc. in a global development program in Phase 2 and 3 trials in patients with CLDN-18.2+ gastric/gastroesophageal and pancreatic cancer.

[182] IMAB362 has been tested in various clinical trials as shown in Table 1 below.

Table 1: Summary of certain clinical trials involving administration of IMAB362

[183| The safety profile of 1MAB362 in patients is well characterized and repeated doses up to 1000 mg/m ² q3w (c _max of up to 603 μg/mL) have been tolerated without dose limiting toxicities (Sahin et al. 2018; Tureci et al. 2019).

[184] Without wishing to be bound by a particular theory, a main pharmacological mode of action of IMAB362 for executing tumor cell killing involves antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). Based on dose-response curves obtained by in vitro ADCC testing the concentration of a drug that gives 95% response is observed at IMAB362 concentrations of 0.3-28 μg/mL in serum (Sahin et al. 2018). For example, efficient lysis of CLDN-18.2+ cells through ADCC with an EC95 of 0.3-28 μg/mL has been reported (Sahin et al. 2018).

[185] Across various trials, IMAB362 was well tolerated, with nausea and vomiting being the dominant adverse events (AE), with no observed dose limiting toxicity (DLT) and clinical activity as a single agent and in combination with chemotherapy.

[186] Among other things, the present disclosure provides an insight that IMAB362 or a variant thereof (e.g., a variant that shares one or more features of IMAB362, including, e.g., one or more (and in many embodiments all) CDR sequences, one or more (and in many embodiments all) FR sequences, and/or heavy and/or light chain variable sequences, etc., and/or that is a class variant such as IgGl, IgM, IgA, etc.) may represent a particularly desirable antibody for delivery via administration of a ribonucleic acid as described herein. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the present disclosure proposes that such delivering modality may achieve effective administration with reduced incidence (e.g., frequency and/or severity) of IMAB362 treatment-related adverse events (TEAEs) relative to those observed when IMAB362 antibody itself is administered. In the Phase 2a MONO trial with IMAB362 (NCT01197885), TEAEs occurred in 82% (n = 44/54) of the patients; nausea (61 %), vomiting (50%) and fatigue (22%) were the most frequent TEAEs. Grade 3 vomiting was reported in 12 patients (22%) and grade 3 nausea in eight patients (15%). These patients received the 600 mg/m ² dose. The nausea and vomiting observed in this study were managed by pausing or slowing infusion of IMAB362 indicating that the AEs are Cmax related (Tureci et al. 2019).

[187] In particular, the present disclosure, among other things, demonstrates that the pharmacokinetic (PK) profile of IMAB362 delivered as a ribonucleic acid (“RiboMabOl”) described herein showed a gradual increase in antibody concentrations and a notably lower C _ma x than IMAB362 between 48-72 hours post administration. The altered PK profile of RiboMabOl may reduce the C _raax -related AEs seen in patients after treatment with IMAB362. The present disclosure also provides non-human primate study data, which shows that no systemic side effects such as diarrhea were observed.

[188] Among other things, the present disclosure appreciates the favorable risk/benefit profile observed for administered IMB362 antibody, particularly in certain indications with high medical need, and proposes that delivery as described herein may be effective and/or particularly desirable. III. RNA technologies for delivery of antibody-based therapeutics

1189] Recombinant protein antibodies are widely used biologies for the treatment of diseases or disorders (e.g., cancer) but show a number of limitations, including, e.g., lengthy manufacturing process development and, for antibody derivatives, short serum half-life. The present disclosure, among other things, provides technologies that address certain limitations of recombinant antibody technologies, including for example, lengthy manufacturing process development, and for antibody derivatives, short serum half-life, by utilizing RNA technologies as a modality to express antibody agents, called RiboMabs, directly in the patient’s cells as a novel class of antibody-based therapeutics. In some embodiments, the present disclosure, among other things, provides insights that RiboMabs that are formulated with lipid nanoparticles (LNP) for intravenous (IV) administration can be taken up by cells (e.g., liver cells) for efficient production of the encoded RiboMab antibody at therapeutically relevant plasma concentrations (Figure 14). In some embodiments, RiboMabs are antibody agents encoded by mRNA, e.g., engineered for minimal immunogenicity, and/or formulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). In some embodiments, mRNA that encodes an antibody agent may comprise modified nucleotides (e.g., but not limited to pseudouridine and/or 1 -methyl- pseudouridine).

[190] RiboMab technology can be utilized to deliver various antibody formats. For example, in some embodiments, RiboMab technology can be used to express a full immunoglobulin (Ig), including, e.g., but not limited to IgG. In some embodiments, a full immunoglobulin (Ig) may be encoded by a single RNA comprising a first coding region that encodes a heavy chain of an antibody and a second coding region that encodes a light chain variable domain of the antibody, wherein the single RNA comprises or encodes either an internal ribosome entry sides (IRES) or another internal promoter or peptide sequence such as “selfcleaving” 2A or 2A-like sequences (see, e.g., Szymczak et al. Nat Biotechnol 22:589, May 2004; ePub April 42004) to yield a respective heavy chain and light chain, which can then be processed to form a full IgG. In some embodiments, a full Ig may be encoded by two separate RNAs: a first RNA comprising a coding region that encodes a heavy chain of an antibody; and a second RNA comprising a coding region that encodes a light chain of the antibody. Such first and second RNAs are then translated into respective chains of an antibody and form a full Ig antibody in target cells. [191] In some embodiments, RiboMab technology can be used to express a bispecific antibody variant, e.g., as illustrated in Figure 12 (Panel A) or described in Stadler et al. (2016) Oncoimmunology 5(3): el091555; and/or in Stadler et al. (2017) Nature Medicine 23(7): 815- 817. For example, in some embodiments, a bivalent antibody agent may be encoded by a single RNA comprising a first coding region that encodes a single-chain variable fragment (scFv) for a first target and a second coding region that encodes a scFv for a second target. In some embodiments, a bivalent antibody agent may be encoded by two separate RNAs: a first RNA comprising a coding region that encodes a scFv for a first target and a coding region that encodes a heavy chain antigen binding fragment (Fab) for a second target; and a second RNA comprising a coding region that encodes a scFv for the same first target and a coding region that encodes a light chain Fab for the same second target. Such first and second RNAs are then translated into subunits of an antibody and form a bispecific antibody in target cells.

[192] In some embodiments, RNA agents (e.g., ssRNAs described herein) may be delivered with a carrier. In some embodiments, RNA/LNP is intravenously (IV) administered and taken up by target cells (e.g., liver cells) for efficient production of the encoded RiboMab antibody at therapeutically relevant plasma concentrations.

A. Provided RNAs encoding antibody agents directed to Claudin-18.2 polypeptides and compositions thereof

[193] In some embodiments, at least one RNA comprises one or more coding regions that encode an antibody agent as described in the section entitled “Exemplary antibody agents targeting Claudin-18.2 polypeptides” above. In some embodiments, at least one RNA comprises one or more coding regions that encode an antibody agent IMAB362 as described above or exemplified herein.

[194] Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the present disclosure, among other things, provides an insight that, in some embodiments, an antibody agent IMAB362 may be particularly useful and/or effective at least in part because it binds specifically to CLDN- 18.2 and, moreover, binds preferentially to CLDN-18.2 relative to CLDN18.1. In some embodiments, teachings provided herein may be applicable to other antibody agents specific to CLDN-18.2, and in particular to such antibodies that bind preferentially to CLDN-18.2 even relative to CLDN 18.1. For example, in some embodiments, at least one RNA comprises one or more coding regions that encode an antibody agent that binds preferentially to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide relative to a CLDN18.1 polypeptide. In some embodiments, such an antibody agent has a binding affinity for a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide higher than that for a CLDN18.1 polypeptide by at least 50% or more including, e.g., at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95% or higher. In some embodiments, such an antibody agent has a binding affinity for a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide higher than that for a CLDN18.1 polypeptide by at least 1.1-fold or more including, e.g., at least 2-fold, at least 5-fold, at least 10-fold, at least 25-fold, at least 50- fold, at least 75-fold, at least 100-fold, at least 500-fold, at least 1000-fold, at least 5000-fold, at least 10,000-fold or higher. In some embodiments, such an antibody agent does not detectably bind to any other claudin family member including CLDN 18.1. In some embodiments, an antibody agent may be or comprise an antibody. In some embodiments, an antibody agent may be or comprise an antigen binding fragment.

[195] In some embodiments, an antibody agent that targets CLDN-18.2 (and may be encoded by an RNA such as an ssRNA, e.g., an mRNA as described herein) specifically binds to a first extracellular domain (ECD1) of a CLDN- 18.2 polypeptide. For example, in some embodiments, such an antibody agent specifically binds to an epitope of ECD 1 that is exposed in cancer cells.

[196] In some embodiments, at least one RNA encodes a variable heavy chain (VH) domain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent and a variable light chain (VL) domain of the antibody agent. In some embodiments, such VH domain(s) and VL domain(s) of a CLDN- 18.2- targeting antibody agent may be encoded by a single RNA construct; alternatively in some embodiments they may be encoded separately by at least two individual RNA constructs. For example, in some embodiments, an RNA as utilized herein comprises two or more coding regions, which comprises a heavy chain-coding region that encodes at least a VH domain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent; and a light chain-coding region that encodes at least a VL domain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent. In alternative embodiments, a composition comprises (i) a first RNA comprising a heavy chain-coding region that encodes at least a VH domain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent; and (ii) a second RNA comprising a light chain-coding region that encodes at least a VL domain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent.

[197] In some embodiments, a heavy chain-coding region can further encode a constant heavy chain (CH) domain; and/or a light chain-coding region can further encode a constant light chain (C ) domain. For example, in some embodiments, a heavy chain-coding region may encode a VH domain, a CHI domain, aCn2 domain, and a CH3 domain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent in an immunoglobulin form (e.g., IgG); and/or a light chain-coding region may encode a VL domain and a CL domain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent in an Ig form (e.g., IgG). For example, in some embodiments, a full immunoglobulin (Ig) maybe encoded by a single RNA comprising a first coding region that encodes a heavy chain of a CLDN-18.2 Ig antibody (e.g., IgG) and a second coding region that encodes a light chain variable domain of the CLDN-18.2 Ig antibody (e.g. ,IgG), which single RNA requires protein translation to yield a fusion protein comprising a heavy chain and a light chain of the antibody and post-translational cleavage of the fusion protein by a suitable protease into respective heavy chain and light chain, which can then be processed to form a full Ig (e.g., IgG). In some embodiments, a full Ig may be encoded by two separate RNAs: a first RNA comprising a coding region that encodes a heavy chain of a CLDN-18.2 Ig antibody (e.g., IgG); and a second RNA comprising a coding region that encodes a light chain of the CLDN-18.2 Ig antibody (e.g., IgG). Such first and second RNAs are then translated into respective chains of an antibody and form a full Ig antibody (e.g. , IgG) in target cells. In some embodiments, an antibody agent encoded by one or more RNAs in an IgG form is IgGl .

[198] In some embodiments, a heavy chain-coding region of an RNA consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes at least one CDR (including, e.g., 1 CDR, 2 CDRs, and 3 CDRs) selected from the group consisting of: (i) CDR1 represented by amino acid residues (GYTFTSYW); (ii) CDR2 represented by amino acid residues (IYPSDSYT); and (iii) CDR3 represented by amino acid residues (TRSWRGNSFDY). In some embodiments, a light chaincoding region of an RNA consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes at least one CDR (including, e.g. , 1 CDR, 2 CDRs, and 3 CDRs) selected from the group consisting of (i) CDR1 represented by amino acid residues (QSLLNSGNQKNY); (ii) CDR2 represented by amino acid residues (WAS); and (iii) CDR3 represented by amino acid residues (QNDYSYPFT).

[199] In some embodiments, a heavy-chain coding region of an RNA consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes an amino acid sequence represented by amino acid residues 20-467 of SEQ ID NO: 1. In some embodiments, one or more amino acid modifications (e.g., to reduce immunogenicity and/or stability) may be present to one or more non-CDR regions of SEQ ID NO: 1. For example, in some embodiments, SEQ ID NO: 1 may comprise at least one or more (including, e.g., at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 15, at least 20, or more) amino acid modifications (including, e.g., amino acid insertions, deletions, and/or substitutions) to one or more non-CDR regions. In some embodiments, no more than 50 (including, e.g., no more than 40, no more than 30, no more than 20, no more than 10, or no more 5, or less) amino acid modifications may be present in one or more non-CDR regions of SEQ ID NO: 1. In some embodiments, a light-chain coding region of an RNA consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes an amino acid sequence represented by amino acid residues 21-240 of SEQ ID NO: 2. In some embodiments, one or more amino acid modifications (e.g., to reduce immunogenicity and/or stability) may be present to one or more non-CDR regions of SEQ ID NO: 2. For example, in some embodiments, SEQ ID NO: 2 may comprise at least one or more (including, e.g., at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 15, at least 20, or more) amino acid modifications (including, e.g., amino acid insertions, deletions, and/or substitutions) to one or more non-CDR regions. In some embodiments, no more than 50 (including, e.g., no more than 40, no more than 30, no more than 20, no more than 10, or no more 5, or less) amino acid modifications may be present in one or more non-CDR regions of SEQ ID NO: 2.

[200] In some embodiments, a heavy-chain coding region of an RNA consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1. In some embodiments, a light-chain coding region of an RNA consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.

[201] In some embodiments, a heavy-chain coding region of an RNA consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes an amino acid sequence represented by amino acid residues 27-474 of SEQ ID NO: 3. In some embodiments, one or more amino acid modifications (e.g., to reduce immunogenicity and/or stability) may be present to one or more non-CDR regions of SEQ ID NO: 3. For example, in some embodiments, SEQ ID NO: 3 may comprise at least one or more (including, e.g., at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 15, at least 20, or more) amino acid modifications (including, e.g., amino acid insertions, deletions, and/or substitutions) to one or more non-CDR regions. In some embodiments, no more than 50 (including, e.g., no more than 40, no more than 30, no more than 20, no more than 10, or no more 5, or less) amino acid modifications may be present in one or more non-CDR regions of SEQ ID NO: 3. In some embodiments, a light-chain coding region of an RNA consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes an amino acid sequence represented by amino acid residues 27-246 of SEQ ID NO: 4. In some embodiments, one or more amino acid modifications (e.g., to reduce immunogenicity and/or stability) may be present to one or more non-CDR regions of SEQ ID NO: 4. For example, in some embodiments, SEQ ID NO: 4 may comprise at least one or more (including, e.g., at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 15, at least 20, or more) amino acid modifications (including, e.g., amino acid insertions, deletions, and/or substitutions) to one or more non-CDR regions. In some embodiments, no more than 50 (including, e.g., no more than 40, no more than 30, no more than 20, no more than 10, or no more 5, or less) amino acid modifications may be present in one or more non-CDR regions of SEQ ID NO: 4.

[202] In some embodiments, a heavy-chain coding region of an RNA consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3. In some embodiments, a light-chain coding region of an RNA consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4.

[203] In some embodiments, a heavy chain-coding region of an RNA consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a full-length heavy chain of Zolbetuximab or Claudiximab (e.g., as described and/or exemplified herein). In some embodiments, a light chaincoding region of an RNA consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a full- length light chain of Zolbetuximab or Claudiximab.

[204] In some embodiments, one or more RNAs can be used to encode a bispecific or multispecific antibody agent, which binds to two or more target molecules, e.g., one of which is a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide. For example, Figure 12A illustrates exemplary bispecific antibody encoded by one or more RNAs. See also, e.g., Stadler et al. (2016) Oncoimmunology 5(3): el091555; and/or in Stadler et al. (2017) Nature Medicine 23(7): 815-817. In some embodiments, a bivalent antibody agent may be encoded by a single RNA comprising a first coding region that encodes a single-chain variable fragment (scFv) that preferentially binds to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide (relative to a CLDN18.1 polypeptide) and a second coding region that encodes a scFv for a second target (e.g., in some embodiments which may be a T cell receptor). In some embodiments, a bivalent antibody agent may be encoded by two separate RNAs: a first RNA comprising a coding region that encodes a scFv that preferentially binds to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide (relative to a CLDN18.1 polypeptide) and a coding region that encodes a heavy chain antigen binding fragment (Fab) for a second target (e.g., in some embodiments which may be a T cell receptor); and a second RNA comprising a coding region that encodes a scFv targeting the CLDN-18.2 polypeptide and a coding region that encodes a light chain Fab for the same second target. In some embodiments, a bivalent antibody agent may be encoded by two separate RNAs: a first RNA comprising a coding region that encodes a scFv for a first target e.g., in some embodiments which may be a T cell receptor) and a coding region that encodes a heavy chain antigen binding fragment (Fab) that preferentially binds to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide (relative to a CLDN18.1 polypeptide); and a second RNA comprising a coding region that encodes a scFv for the same first target and a coding region that encodes a light chain Fab targeting the CLDN-18.2 polypeptide. Such first and second RNAs are then translated into subunits of an antibody and form a bispecific antibody in target cells.

[205] Secretion signal-encoding region: In some embodiments, RNA(s) that encode a

CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent may comprise a secretion signal-encoding region. In some embodiments, such a secretion signal-encoding region allows a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent encoded by one or more RNAs to be secreted upon translation by cells, e.g., present in a subject to be treated, thus yielding a plasma concentration of a biologically active a CLDN-18.2- targeting antibody agent. In some embodiments, a secretion signal-encoding region included in an RNA consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a non-human secretion signal. For example, in some embodiments, such a non-human secretion signal may be a murine secretion signal, which may in some embodiments be or comprises the amino acid sequence of MGWSCIILFLVATA GVHS or MESQTQVLMSLLFWVSGTCG. In some embodiments, a secretion signal-encoding region included in an RNA consists of or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a human secretion signal, which may in some embodiments be or comprises the amino acid sequence of MRVMAPRTLILLLSGALALTETWAGS. In some embodiments, a secretion signalencoding region included in an RNA encoding a heavy chain domain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent may comprise a nucleotide sequence (i) that encodes a murine secretion signal amino acid sequence, which in some embodiments may be or comprise the amino acid sequence of MGWSCIILFLVATATGVHS; or that (ii) encodes a human secretion signal amino acid sequence, which in some embodiments may be or comprise the amino acid sequence of MRVMAPRTLILLLSGALALTETWAGS . In some embodiments, a secretion signal-encoding region included in an RNA encoding a light chain domain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent may comprise a nucleotide sequence (i) that encodes a murine secretion signal amino acid sequence, which in some embodiments may be or comprise the amino acid sequence of MESQTQVLMSLLFWVSGTCG; or that (ii) encodes a human secretion signal amino acid sequence, which in some embodiments may be or comprise the amino acid sequence of MRVMAPRTLILLLSGALALTETWAGS .

[206] In some embodiments, RNA(s) that encode a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent may comprise at least one non-coding sequence element (e.g., to enhance RNA stability and/or translation efficiency). Examples of non-coding sequence elements include but are not limited to a 3’ untranslated region (UTR), a 5’ UTR, a cap structure for co-transcriptional capping of mRNA, a poly adenine (polyA) tail, and any combinations thereof.

[207] UTRs (5’ UTRs and/or 3 ' UTRs): In some embodiments, a provided RNA can comprise a nucleotide sequence that encodes a 5’UTR of interest and/or a 3’ UTR of interest. One of skill in the art will appreciate that untranslated regions (e.g., 3’ UTR and/or 5’ UTR) of a mRNA sequence can contribute to mRNA stability, mRNA localization, and/or translational efficiency.

[208] “ In some embodiments, a provided RNA can comprise a 5’ UTR nucleotide sequence and/or a 3’ UTR nucleotide sequence. In some embodiments, such a 5’ UTR sequence can be operably linked to a 3’ of a coding sequence (e.g., encompassing one or more coding regions). Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, a 3’ UTR sequence can be operably linked to 5’ of a coding sequence e.g., encompassing one or more coding regions).

[209] In some embodiments of any aspects described herein, 5' and 3' UTR sequences included in an RNA can consist of or comprise naturally occurring or endogenous 5' and 3' UTR sequences for an open reading frame of a gene of interest. Alternatively, in some embodiments, 5’ and/or 3’ UTR sequences included in an RNA are not endogenous to a coding sequence (e.g., encompassing one or more coding regions); in some such embodiments, such 5’ and/or 3’ UTR sequences can be useful for modifying the stability and/or translation efficiency of an RNA sequence transcribed. For example, a skilled artisan will appreciate that AU-rich elements in 3' UTR sequences can decrease the stability of mRNA. Therefore, as will be understood by a skilled artisan, 3’ and/or 5’ UTRs can be selected or designed to increase the stability of the transcribed RNA based on properties of UTRs that are well known in the art.

[210] For example, one skilled in the art will appreciate that, in some embodiments, a nucleotide sequence consisting of or comprising a Kozak sequence of an open reading frame sequence of a gene or nucleotide sequence of interest can be selected and used as a nucleotide sequence encoding a 5’ UTR. As will be understood by a skilled artisan, Kozak sequences are known to increase the efficiency of translation of some RNA transcripts, but are not necessarily required for all RNAs to enable efficient translation. In some embodiments, a provided RNA polynucleotide can comprise a nucleotide sequence that encodes a 5' UTR derived from an RNA virus whose RNA genome is stable in cells. In some embodiments, various modified ribonucleotides (e.g., as described herein) can be used in the 3' and/or 5' UTRs, for example, to impede exonuclease degradation of the transcribed RNA sequence.

[211] In some embodiments, a 5’ UTR included in an RNA may be derived from human a-globin mRNA combined with Kozak region.

[212] In some embodiments, an RNA may comprise one or more 3 ’UTRs. For example, in some embodiments, an RNA may comprise two copies of 3'-UTRs derived from a globin mRNA, such as, e.g., alpha2-globin, alpha 1 -globin, beta-globin (e.g., a human beta-globin) mRNA. In some embodiments, two copies of 3’UTR derived from a human beta-globin mRNA may be used, e.g., in some embodiments which may be placed between a coding sequence of an RNA and a poly(A)-tail, to improve protein expression levels and/or prolonged persistence of an RNA. In some embodiments, a 3’ UTR included in an RNA may be or comprise one or more (e.g., 1, 2, 3, or more) of the 3’UTR sequences disclosed in WO 2017/060314, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference for the purposes described herein. In some embodiments, a 3‘-UTR may be a combination of at least two sequence elements (FI element) derived from the "amino terminal enhancer of split" (AES) mRNA (called F) and the mitochondrial encoded 12S ribosomal RNA (called 1). These were identified by an ex vivo selection process for sequences that confer RNA stability and augment total protein expression (see WO 2017/060314, herein incorporated by reference). [213] In some embodiments, a 5’-UTR comprises the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 18 or 20, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 99%, 98%, 97%, 96%, 95%, or 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 18 or 20.

[214] In some embodiments, a 3’-UTR comprises the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 19 or 21, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 99%, 98%, 97%, 96%, 95%, or 90% identity to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 19 or 21.

[215] PolyA tail: In some embodiments, a provided RNA can comprise a nucleotide sequence that encodes a polyA tail. A polyA tail is a nucleotide sequence comprising a series of adenosine nucleotides, which can vary in length (e.g., at least 5 adenine nucleotides) and can be up to several hundred adenosine nucleotides. In some embodiments, a polyA tail is a nucleotide sequence comprising at least 30 adenosine nucleotides or more, including, e.g., at least 35, at least 40, at least 45, at least 50, at least 55, at least 60, at least 65, at least 70, at least 75, at least 80, at least 85, at least 90, at least 95, at least 100, at least 110, at least 120, or more adenosine nucleotides. In some embodiments, a polyA tail is or comprises a polyA homopolymeric tail. In some embodiments, a polyA tail may comprise one or more modified adenosine nucleosides, including, but not limited to, cordiocipin and 8-azaadenosine. In some embodiments, a polyA tail may comprise one or more non-adensoine nucleotides. In some embodiments, a polyA tail may be or comprise a disrupted or modified polyA tail as described in WO 2016/005324, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference for the purpose described herein. For example, in some embodiments, a polyA tail included in an RNA described herein may be or comprise a modified polyA sequence comprising: a linker sequence; a first sequence of at least 20 A consecutive nucleotides, which is 5’ of the linker sequence; and a second sequence of at least 20 A consecutive nucleotides, which is 3’ of the linker sequence. In some embodiments, a modified polyA sequence may comprise: a linker sequence which is not a polyA sequence comprising at least ten nucleotides (e.g., T, G, and/or C nucleotides); a first sequence of at least 30 A consecutive nucleotides, which is 5’ of the linker sequence; and a second sequence of at least 70 A consecutive nucleotides, which is 3’ of the linker sequence.

[216] In some embodiments, no nucleotides other than A nucleotides flank a polyA tail at its 3 '-end, i.e., the poly- A tail is not masked or followed at its 3 '-end by a nucleotide other than A. [217] 5’ cap: In some embodiments, an RNA described herein may comprise a 5’ cap, which may be incorporated into such an RNA during transcription, or joined to such an RNA post-transcription. In some embodiments, an RNA may comprise a 5’ cap structure for co- transcriptional capping of RNA. Examples of a cap structure for co-transcriptional capping are known in the art, including, e.g., as described in WO 2017/053297, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference for the purposes described herein. In some embodiments, a 5’ cap included in an RNA described herein is or comprises m7G(5')ppp(5')(2'OMeA)pG. In some embodiments, a 5’ cap included in an RNA described herein is or comprises a cap1 structure [e.g., m2 ⁷ ’ ³ ’°Gppp(m1 ² -0)ApG]. When an RNA sequence described herein has a 5' end with the nucleotides 5'-AG, and it is described that the RNA comprises a 5’ cap containing as second and third nucleotides A and G, respectively, [e.g., m2 ⁷ ’ ³ -0Gppp(mi ² -0)ApG], it is to be understood that in some embodiments, the second and third nucleotides of the cap correspond to the nucleotides 5'-AG of the RNA sequence.

[218] Chemical modification: In some embodiments, RNA(s) that encode a CLDN- 18.2-targeting antibody agent may comprise at least one modified ribonucleotide, for example, in some embodiments to increase the stability of such RNA(s) and/or decrease immunogenicity of such RNA(s) and/or to decrease cytotoxicity of such RNAs. For example, in some embodiments, at least one of A, U, C, and G ribonucleotide of RNA(s) may be replaced by a modified ribonucleotide. For example, in some embodiments, some or all of cytidine residues present in an RNA may be replaced by a modified cytidine, which in some embodiments may be, e.g., 5- methylcytidine. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, some or all of uridine residues present in an RNA may be replaced by a modified uridine, which in some embodiments may be 3 -methyl -uridine (m3U), 5 -methoxy-uridine (mo5U), 5-aza-uridine, 6-aza-uridine, 2- thio-5-aza-uridine, 2-thio-uridine (s2U), 4-thio-uridine (s4U), 4-thio-pseudouridine, 2-thio- pseudouridine, 5 -hydroxy-uridine (ho5U), 5-aminoallyl-uridine, 5-halo-uridine (e.g., 5-iodo- uridineor 5-bromo-uridine), uridine 5-oxyacetic acid (cmo5U), uridine 5-oxyacetic acid methyl ester (mcmo5U), 5-carboxymethyl-uridine (cm5U), 1 -carboxymethyl -pseudouridine, 5- carboxyhydroxymethyl-uridine (chm5U), 5 -carboxyhydroxymethyl -uridine methyl ester (mchm5U), 5-methoxycarbonylmethyl-uridine (mcm5U), 5-methoxycarbonylmethyl-2-thio- uridine (mcm5s2U), 5-aminomethyl-2-thio-uridine (nm5s2U), 5-methylaminomethyl-uridine (mnm5U), 1 -ethyl-pseudouridine, 5-methylaminomethyl-2-thio-uridine (mnm5s2U), 5- methylaminomethyl-2-seleno-uridine (mnm5se2U), 5-carbamoylmethyl-uridine (ncm5U), 5- carboxymethylaminomethyl-uridine (cmnm5U), 5-carboxymethylaminomethyl-2-thio-uridine (cmnm5s2U), 5-propynyl-uridine, 1 -prop ynyl -pseudouridine, 5-taurinomethyl-uridine (rm5U), 1 -taurinomethyl-pseudouridine, 5-taurinomethyl-2-thio-uridine(Tm5s2U), 1 -taurinomethyl-4- thio-pseudouridine), 5-methyl-2-thio-uridine (m5s2U), l-methyl-4-thio-pseudouridine (mls4\|/), 4-thio-l-methyl-pseudouridine, 3-methyl-pseudouridine (m3\|/), 2-thio-l-methyl-pseudouridine, 1 -methyl- 1-deaza-pseudouridine, 2-thio-l -methyl- 1-deaza-pseudouridine, dihydrouridine (D), dihydropseudouridine, 5,6-dihydrouridine, 5-methyl-dihydrouridine (m5D), 2-thio- dihydrouridine, 2-thio-dihydropseudouridine, 2-methoxy-uridine, 2-methoxy-4-thio-uridine, 4- methoxy-pseudouridine, 4-methoxy-2-thio-pseudouridine, N 1 -methyl-pseudouridine, 3-(3- amino-3-carboxypropyl)uridine (acp3U), 1 -methyl-3-(3-amino-3-carboxypropyl)pseudouridine (acp3 \|/), 5-(isopentenylaminomethyl)uridine (inm5U), 5-(isopentenylaminomethyl)-2-thio- uridine (inm5s2U), a-thio-uridine, 2'-O-methyl-uridine (Um), 5,2'-O-dimethyl-uridine (m5Um), 2'-O-methyl-pseudouridine 2-thio-2'-O-methyl-uridine (s2Um), 5- methoxycarbonylmethyl-2'-0-methyl-uridine (mcm5Um), 5-carbamoylmethyl-2'-O-methyl- uridine (ncm5Um), 5-carboxymethylaminomethyl-2'-O-methyl-uridine (cmnm5Um), 3,2'-O- dimethyl-uridine (m3Um), 5-(isopentenylaminomethyl)-2'-O-methyl-uridine (inm5Um), 1 -thiouridine, deoxythymidine, 2'-F-ara-uridine, 2'-F-uridine, 2'-OH-ara-uridine, 5-(2- carbomethoxyvinyl) uridine, 5-[3-(l-E-propenylamino)uridine, or any other modified uridine known in the art. In some embodiments, some or all of uridine residues present in an RNA may be replaced by a modified uridine selected from the group consisting of pseudouridine (\|/), Nl- methyl-pseudouridine (ml y), 5-methyl-uridine (m5U), and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, some or all of uridine residues present in an RNA may be replaced by pseudouridine or a derivative thereof, e.g., 1 -methylpseudouridine. In some embodiments, some or all of uridine residues present in an RNA may be replaced by pseudouridine. In some embodiments, some or all of uridine residues present in an RNA may be replaced by 1 - methylpseudouridine. In some embodiments, all uridine residues present in an RNA are replaced by pseudouridine. In some embodiments, all uridine residues present in an RNA are replaced by 1 -methylpseudouridine.

[219] Codon optimization and GC enrichment: The codons of the RNA (in particular, mRNA) described in the present disclosure may further be optimized, e.g., to increase the GC content of the RNA and/or to replace codons which are rare in the cell (or subject) in which a peptide or polypeptide of interest is to be expressed by codons which are synonymous frequent codons in said cell (or subject). In some embodiments, the amino acid sequence encoded by the RNA (in particular, mRNA) described in the present disclosure is encoded by a coding sequence which is codon-optimized and/or the G/C content of which is increased compared to wild type coding sequence. This also includes embodiments, wherein one or more sequence regions of the coding sequence are codon-optimized and/or increased in the G/C content compared to the corresponding sequence regions of the wild type coding sequence. In some embodiments, the codon-optimization and/or the increase in the G/C content preferably does not change the sequence of the encoded amino acid sequence. In some embodiments, the guanosine/cytosine (G/C) content of the coding region of the RNA (in particular, mRNA) described herein is increased compared to the G/C content of the corresponding coding sequence of the wild type RNA, wherein the amino acid sequence encoded by the RNA is preferably not modified compared to the amino acid sequence encoded by the wild type RNA. This modification of the RNA sequence is based on the fact that the sequence of any RNA region to be translated is important for efficient translation of that RNA. Sequences having an increased G (guanosine)/C (cytosine) content are more stable than sequences having an increased A (adenosine)/U (uracil) content. In respect to the fact that several codons code for one and the same amino acid (so- called degeneration of the genetic code), the most favorable codons for the stability can be determined (so-called alternative codon usage). Depending on the amino acid to be encoded by the RNA, there are various possibilities for modification of the RNA sequence, compared to its wild type sequence. In particular, codons which contain A and/or U nucleotides can be modified by substituting these codons by other codons, which code for the same amino acids but contain no A and/or U or contain a lower content of A and/or U nucleotides. In various embodiments, the G/C content of the coding region of the RNA (in particular, mRNA) described herein is increased by at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 55%, or even more compared to the G/C content of the coding region of the wild type RNA.

[220] Non-immunogenic RNA: -In certain embodiments, RNA described herein is rendered non-immunogenic by incorporating modified nucleosides suppressing RNA-mediated activation of innate immune receptors into the RNA and/or limiting the amount of double- stranded RNA (dsRNA), e.g., by limiting the formation of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), e.g., during in vitro transcription, and/or by removing double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), e.g., following in vitro transcription. In certain embodiments, non-immunogenic RNA is rendered non- immunogenic by incorporating modified nucleosides suppressing RNA-mediated activation of innate immune receptors into the RNA and/or by removing double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), e.g., following in vitro transcription.

[221] For rendering the non-immunogenic RNA (especially mRNA) non-immunogenic by the incorporation of modified nucleosides, any modified nucleoside may be used as long as it lowers or suppresses immunogenicity of the RNA. Particularly preferred are modified nucleosides that suppress RNA-mediated activation of innate immune receptors. In some embodiments, the modified nucleosides comprise a replacement of one or more uridines with a nucleoside comprising a modified nucleobase. In some embodiments, the modified nucleobase is a modified uracil. In some embodiments, the nucleoside comprising a modified nucleobase is selected from the group consisting of 3-methyl-uridine (m ³ U), 5 -methoxy-uridine (mo ⁵ U), 5-aza- uridine, 6-aza-uridine, 2-thio-5-aza-uridine, 2-thio-uridine (s ² U), 4-thio-uridine (s ⁴ U), 4-thio- pseudouridine, 2-thio-pseudouridine, 5-hydroxy-uridine (ho ⁵ U), 5-aminoallyl-uridine, 5-halo- uridine (e.g., 5-iodo-uridine or 5 -bromo-uridine), uridine 5-oxyacetic acid (cmo ⁵ U), uridine 5- oxyacetic acid methyl ester (mcmo ⁵ U), 5-carboxymethyl-uridine (cm ⁵ U), 1 -carboxymethylpseudouridine, 5-carboxyhydroxymethyl-uridine (chm ⁵ U), 5-carboxyhydroxymethyl-uridine methyl ester (mchm ⁵ U), 5-methoxycarbonylmethyl-uridine (mcm ⁵ U), 5- methoxycarbonylmethyl-2-thio-uridine (mcm ⁵ s ² U), 5-aminomethyl-2-thio-uridine (nm ⁵ s ² U), 5- methylaminomethyl -uridine (mnm ⁵ U), 1 -ethyl -pseudouridine, 5-methylaminomethyl-2-thio- uridine (mnm ⁵ s ² U), 5-methylaminomethyl-2-seleno-uridine (mnm ⁵ se ² U), 5-carbamoylmethyl- uridine (ncm ⁵ U), 5-carboxymethylaminomethyl-uridine (cmnm ⁵ U), 5- carboxymethylaminomethyl-2-thio-uridine (cmnm ⁵ s ² U), 5-propynyl -uridine, 1-propynyl- pseudouridine, 5-taurinomethyl-uridine (rm ⁵ U), 1-taurinomethyl-pseudouridine, 5- taurinomethyl-2-thio-uridine(Tm5s2U), 1 -taurinomethyl-4-thio-pseudouridine), 5-methyl-2-thio- uridine (m ⁵ s ² U), l-methyl-4-thio-pseudouridine (m’s ⁴ ^), 4-thio-l-methyl-pseudouridine, 3- methyl-pseudouridine (m ³ Ψ) , 2-thio-l-methyl-pseudouridine, 1 -methyl- 1-deaza-pseudouridine, 2-thio-l -methyl- 1-deaza-pseudouridine, dihydrouridine (D), dihydropseudouridine, 5,6- dihydrouridine, 5-methyl-dihydrouridine (m ⁵ D), 2-thio-dihydrouridine, 2-thio- dihydropseudouridine, 2 -methoxy-uridine, 2-methoxy-4-thio-uridine, 4-methoxy-pseudouridine, 4-methoxy-2-thio-pseudouridine, Nl-methyl-pseudouridine, 3-(3-amino-3- carboxypropyl)uridine (acp ³ U), 1-methyl-3-(3-amino-3-carboxypropyl)pseudouridine (acp ³ Ψ ),

5-(isopentenylaminomethyl)uridine (inm ⁵ U), 5-(isopentenylaminomethyl)-2-thio-uridine (inm ⁵ s ² U), a-thio-uridine, 2 '-O-methyl -uridine (Um), 5,2'-O-dimethyl-uridine (m ⁵ Um), 2'-O- methyl-pseudouridine (Ψm) , 2-thio-2'-O-methyl-uridine (s ² Um), 5-methoxycarbonylmethyl-2'- O-methyl-uridine (mcm ⁵ Um), 5-carbamoylmethyl-2'-O-methyl-uridine (ncm ⁵ Um), 5- carboxymethylaminomethyl-2'-O-methyl-uridine (cmnm ⁵ Um), 3,2'-O-dimethyl-uridine (m ³ Um), 5-(isopentenylaminomethyl)-2'-O-methyl-uridine (inm ⁵ Um), 1 -thio-uridine, deoxythymidine, 2'- F-ara-uridine, 2'-F-uridine, 2'-OH-ara-uridine, 5-(2-carbomethoxyvinyl) uridine, and 5-[3-(l-E- propenylamino)uridine. In certain embodiments, the nucleoside comprising a modified nucleobase is pseudouridine (Ψ), Nl-methyl-pseudouridine (m1Ψ) or 5-methyl-uridine (m5U), in particular N 1 -methyl -pseudouridine.

[222] In some embodiments, the replacement of one or more uridines with a nucleoside comprising a modified nucleobase comprises a replacement of at least 1 %, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 25%, at least 50%, at least 75%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99% or 100% of the uridines.

[223] During synthesis of mRNA by in vitro transcription (IVT) using T7 RNA polymerase significant amounts of aberrant products, including double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) are produced due to unconventional activity of the enzyme. dsRNA induces inflammatory cytokines and activates effector enzymes leading to protein synthesis inhibition. Formation of dsRNA can be limited during synthesis of mRNA by in vitro transcription (IVT), for example, by limiting the amount of uridine triphosphate (UTP) during synthesis. Optionally, UTP may be added once or several times during synthesis of mRNA. Also, dsRNA can be removed from RNA such as IVT RNA, for example, by ion-pair reversed phase HPLC using a non-porous or porous C-18 polystyrene-divinylbenzene (PS-DVB) matrix. Alternatively, an enzymatic based method using E. coli RNaselll that specifically hydrolyzes dsRNA but not ssRNA, thereby eliminating dsRNA contaminants from IVT RNA preparations can be used. Furthermore, dsRNA can be separated from ssRNA by using a cellulose material. In some embodiments, an RNA preparation is contacted with a cellulose material and the ssRNA is separated from the cellulose material under conditions which allow binding of dsRNA to the cellulose material and do not allow binding of ssRNA to the cellulose material. Suitable methods for providing ssRNA are disclosed, for example, in WO 2017/182524. In some embodiments, the amount of doublestranded RNA (dsRNA) is limited, e.g., dsRNA (especially dsmRNA) is removed from non- immunogenic RNA , such that less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 4%, less than 3%, less than 2%, less than 1%, less than 0.5%, less than 0.3%, less than 0.1%, less than 0.05%, less than 0.03%, less than 0.01%, less than 0.005%, less than 0.004%, less than 0.003%, less than 0.002%, less than 0.001%, or less than 0.0005% of the RNA in the non-immunogenic RNA composition is dsRNA. In some embodiments, the non-immunogenic RNA (especially mRNA) is free or essentially free of dsRNA. In some embodiments, the non-immunogenic RNA (especially mRNA) composition comprises a purified preparation of single- stranded nucleoside modified RNA. In some embodiments, the non-immunogenic RNA (especially mRNA) composition comprises single-stranded nucleoside modified RNA (especially mRNA) and is substantially free of double stranded RNA (dsRNA). In some embodiments, the non-immunogenic RNA (especially mRNA) composition comprises at least 90%, at least 91%, at least 92%, at least 93 %, at least 94%, at least 95%, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99%, at least 99.5%, at least 99.9%, at least 99.99%, at least 99.991%, at least 99.992%, , at least 99.993%,, at least 99.994%, , at least 99.995%, at least 99.996%, at least 99.997%, or at least 99.998% single stranded nucleoside modified RNA, relative to all other nucleic acid molecules (DNA, dsRNA, etc.). Various methods can be used to determine the amount of dsRNA. For example, a sample may be contacted with dsRNA-specific antibody and the amount of antibody binding to RNA may be taken as a measure for the amount of dsRNA in the sample. A sample containing a known amount of dsRNA may be used as a reference. For example, RN A may be spotted onto a membrane, e.g., nylon blotting membrane. The membrane may be blocked, e.g., in TBS-T buffer (20 mM TRIS pH 7.4, 137 mM NaCl, 0.1% (v/v) TWEEN-20) containing 5% (w/v) skim milk powder. For detection of dsRNA, the membrane may be incubated with dsRNA-specific antibody, e.g., dsRNA-specific mouse mAb (English & Scientific Consulting, Szirak, Hungary). After washing, e.g., with TBS-T, the membrane may be incubated with a secondary antibody, e.g., HRP-conjugated donkey anti-mouse IgG (Jackson ImmunoResearch, Cat #715-035-150), and the signal provided by the secondary antibody may be detected. In some embodiments, the non-immunogenic RNA (especially mRNA) is translated in a cell more efficiently than standard RNA with the same sequence. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by a factor of 2- fold relative to its unmodified counterpart. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by a 3- fold factor. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by a 4-fold factor. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by a 5-fold factor. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by a 6-fold factor. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by a 7-fold factor. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by an 8-fold factor. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by a 9-fold factor. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by a 10- fold factor. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by a 15-fold factor. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by a 20-fold factor. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by a 50-fold factor. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by a 100-fold factor. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by a 200-fold factor. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by a 500-fold factor. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by a 1000-fold factor. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by a 2000-fold factor. In some embodiments, the factor is 10-1000-fold. In some embodiments, the factor is 10-100-fold. In some embodiments, the factor is 10-200-fold. In some embodiments, the factor is 10-300-fold. In some embodiments, the factor is 10-500-fold. In some embodiments, the factor is 20-1 OOO-fold. In some embodiments, the factor is 30-1000-fold. In some embodiments, the factor is 50-1000- fold. In some embodiments, the factor is 100-1000-fold. In some embodiments, the factor is 200- 1000-fold. In some embodiments, translation is enhanced by any other significant amount or range of amounts. In some embodiments, the non-immunogenic RNA (especially mRNA) exhibits significantly less innate immunogenicity than standard RNA with the same sequence. In some embodiments, the non-immunogenic RNA (especially mRNA) exhibits an innate immune response that is 2-fold less than its unmodified counterpart. In some embodiments, innate immunogenicity is reduced by a 3 -fold factor. In some embodiments, innate immunogenicity is reduced by a 4-fold factor. In some embodiments, innate immunogenicity is reduced by a 5-fold factor. In some embodiments, innate immunogenicity is reduced by a 6-fold factor. In some embodiments, innate immunogenicity is reduced by a 7-fold factor. In some embodiments, innate immunogenicity is reduced by an 8-fold factor. In some embodiments, innate immunogenicity is reduced by a 9-fold factor. In some embodiments, innate immunogenicity is reduced by a 10-fold factor. In some embodiments, innate immunogenicity is reduced by a 15-fold factor. In some embodiments, innate immunogenicity is reduced by a 20-fold factor. In some embodiments, innate immunogenicity is reduced by a 50-fold factor. In some embodiments, innate immunogenicity is reduced by a 100-fold factor. In some embodiments, innate immunogenicity is reduced by a 200-fold factor. In some embodiments, innate immunogenicity is reduced by a 500-fold factor. In some embodiments, innate immunogenicity is reduced by a 1000-fold factor. In some embodiments, innate immunogenicity is reduced by a 2000-fold factor. The term "exhibits significantly less innate immunogenicity" refers to a detectable decrease in innate immunogenicity. In some embodiments, the term refers to a decrease such that an effective amount of the non-immunogenic RNA (especially mRNA) can be administered without triggering a detectable innate immune response. In some embodiments, the term refers to a decrease such that the non-immunogenic RNA (especially mRNA) can be repeatedly administered without eliciting an innate immune response sufficient to detectably reduce production of the protein encoded by the non-immunogenic RNA. In some embodiments, the decrease is such that the non-immunogenic RNA (especially mRNA) can be repeatedly administered without eliciting an innate immune response sufficient to eliminate detectable production of the protein encoded by the non-immunogenic RNA.

[224] In some embodiments, an RNA encoding a heavy chain of a CLDN-18.2- targeting antibody agent comprises, in a 5’ to 3’ direction: (a) a 5’UTR; (b) a secretion signalcoding region; (c) a heavy chain-coding region; (d) a 3’ UTR; and (e) a polyA tail. See, for example, Figure 13. In some embodiments, a 5’UTR is or comprises a sequence derived from human a-globin mRNA combined with Kozak region. In some embodiments, a secretion signalcoding region is or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes the amino acid sequence of MRVMAPRTLILLLSGALALTETWAGS . In some embodiments, a heavy chain-coding region encodes a VH domain, a Cm domain, aCH2 domain, and a CH3 domain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent in an IgG form (e.g., ones as described herein, such as IMAB262, or an amino acid sequence represented by amino acid residues 27-474 of SEQ ID NO: 3. In some embodiments, a 3’ UTR is or comprises a combination of at least two sequence elements (FI element) derived from the "amino terminal enhancer of split" (AES) mRNA (called F) and the mitochondrial encoded 12S ribosomal RNA (called I). In some embodiments, a polyA tail is or comprises a modified polyA sequence (e.g., a polyA sequence of 100 adenosines disrupted by a linker sequence inserted immediately following 30 consecutive adenosines). In some embodiments, such an RNA comprises a 5’ cap structure comprising a CAP1 structure, or m? ⁷ ’ ³ ’ °Gppp(mi ² ‘°)ApG. In some embodiments, such an RNA comprises all uridines replaced by Nl- methylpseudouridine. [225] In some embodiments, an RNA encoding a light chain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent comprises, in a 5’ to 3’ direction: (a) a 5’UTR; (b) a secretion signal-coding region; (c) a light chain-coding region; (d) a 3’ UTR; and (e) a polyA tail. See, for example, Figure 13. In some embodiments, a 5’UTR is or comprises a sequence derived from human a- globin mRNA combined with Kozak region. In some embodiments, a secretion signal-coding region is or comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes the amino acid sequence of MRVMAPRTLILLLSGALALTETWAGS . In some embodiments, a light chain-coding region encodes a VL domain and a CL domain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent in an IgG form (e.g., ones as described herein, such as IMAB262, or an amino acid sequence represented by amino acid residues 27-246 of SEQ ID NO: 4. In some embodiments, a 3’ UTR is or comprises a combination of at least two sequence elements (FI element) derived from the "amino terminal enhancer of split" (AES) mRNA (called F) and the mitochondrial encoded 12S ribosomal RNA (called I). In some embodiments, a polyA tail is or comprises a modified polyA sequence (e.g., a polyA sequence of 100 adenosines disrupted by a linker sequence inserted immediately following 30 consecutive adenosines). In some embodiments, such an RNA comprises a 5’ cap structure comprising a CAP1 structure, or m2 ⁷ - ³ -0Gppp(m1 ² -0)ApG. In some embodiments, such an RNA comprises all uridines replaced by N1 -methylpseudouridine.

[226] In some embodiments, RNA(s) is or comprises one or more single-stranded RNA(s), e.g., single-stranded mRNAs.

[227] In some embodiments, a composition comprises a single- stranded mRNA encoding a heavy chain (e.g., open reading frame, ORF) of an antibody agent targeting CLDN- 18.2 (e.g., ones described herein) and a single- stranded mRNA encoding a light chain (e.g., open reading frame, ORF) of an antibody agent targeting CLDN-18.2 (e.g., ones described herein), which upon introduction into target cells, are translated into respective subunits and form a full IgG antibody in target cells. An exemplary drug substance is schematically presented in Figure 13.

[228] In some embodiments, an RNA drug substance is or comprises a combination of two RNAs, respectively, encoding a heavy (HC) and a light chain (LC) of an IgG CLDN-18.2 targeting antibody. In some embodiments, each of such two RNAs can be manufactured separately and an RNA drag substance can be prepared by mixing RNAs, respectively, encoding HC and LC of an IgG CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody in an appropriate weight ratio, e.g., a weight ratio such that the resulting molar ratio of HC- and LC-encoding RNAs is about 1.5:1 - 1: 1.5 for proper IgG formation.

[229] In some embodiments, a first RNA encoding a polypeptide comprising a heavy chain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent, and a second RNA encoding a polypeptide comprising a light chain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent may be present in a molar ratio of about 1.5:1 to about 1:1.5. In some embodiments, such a first RNA and a second RNA may be present in a molar ratio of about 1.30, about 1.29, about 1.28, about 1.27, about 1.26, about 1.25, about 1.24, about 1.23, about 1.22, about 1.21, about 1.20, about 1.19, about 1.18, about 1.17, about 1.16, about 1.15, about 1.14, about 1.13, about 1.12, about 1.11, about 1.10, about 1.09, about 1.08, about 1.07, about 1.06, about 1.05, about 1.04, about 1.03, about 1.02, about 1.01, about 1.00, about 0.99, about 0.98, about 0.97, about 0.96, about 0.95, about 0.94, about 0.93, about 0.92, about 0.91, about 0.90, about 0.89, about 0.88, about 0.87, about 0.86, about 0.85, about 0.84, about 0.83, about 0.82, about 0.81, or about 0.80. In some embodiments, such a first RNA and a second RNA may be present in a weight ratio of 3: 1 to 1 : 1. In some embodiments, such a first RNA and a second RNA may be present in a weight ratio of about 2: 1. In some embodiments, such a first RNA and a second RNA may be present in a weight ratio of about 2.2:1, about 2.1 :1, about 2:1, about 1.9:1, about 1.8:1, about 1.7:1, about 1.6:1, about 1.5:1, about 1.4:1, about 1.3 : 1 , or about 1.2:1.

[230] In some embodiments, RNAs encoding the HC and/or LC of a CLDN-18.2- targeting IgG antibody can comprise one or more non-coding sequence elements, for example, to enhance RNA stability and/or translational efficiency. For example, in some embodiments, such RNA can comprise a cap structure, for example, a cap structure that can increase the resistance of RNA molecules to degradation by extracellular and intracellular RNases and leads to higher protein expression. In some embodiments, an exemplary cap structure is or comprises (nu ^{73 -} °Gppp(mi ² ’ °))ApG (cap1). In some embodiments, such RNA can comprise one or more noncoding sequence elements at one or both of 5’ and 3’ untranslated regions (UTRs), for example, a naturally occurring sequence element at 5 ' and 3 ' UTRs that can significantly increase the intracellular half-life and the translational efficiency of the molecule (see, e.g., Holtkamp et al. 2006; Orlandini von Niessen et al. 2019). In some embodiments, an exemplary 5’ UTR sequence element is or comprises a characteristic sequence from human a-globin and a Kozak consensus sequence. In some embodiments, an exemplary 3’ UTR sequence element is or comprises a combination of two sequence elements (FI element) derived from the "amino terminal enhancer of split" (AES) mRNA (called F) and a mitochondrial encoded 12S ribosomal RNA (called I). See, e.g., WO 2017/060314, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference, for sequence information of exemplary 3’ UTR sequence element. In some embodiments, such RNA can comprise a poly(A)-tail, for example, one that is designed to enhance RNA stability and/or translational efficiency. In some embodiments, an exemplary poly(A)-tail is or comprises a modified poly(A) sequence of 110 nucleotides in length including a stretch of 30 adenosine residues, followed by a 10 nucleotide linker sequence and another stretch of 70 adenosine residues (A30L70). In some embodiments, such RNA can comprise one or more modified ribonucleotides. By way of example, only, in some embodiments, uridine of RNA can be replaced with a modified analog (e.g., N1 -methylpseudouridine) to reduce and/or inhibit immune-modulatory activity and therefore enhances translation of the RNA.

[231] In some embodiments, an RNA drug substance is or comprises a combination of a first RNA having a construct of RNA-HC as disclosed in Table 2 below) and a second RNA having a construct of RNA-LC as disclosed in Table 2 below. In some such embodiments, an RNA drug substance can be prepared by mixing the first and second RNAs in a weight ratio of about 2:1.

Table 2. Exemplary constructs of RNAs encoding a CLDN-18.2-targeting IgG antibody

[232] It is shown here that the strength of expression of the antibody agent encoded by the RNA is dependent on the choice of specific sequences in the coding region as well as in the non-coding region. Thus, it has been shown that the open reading frames shown in SEQ ID NO: 16 and SEQ ID NO: 17, when cells are transfected with RNA containing these open reading frames, result in strong expression of the encoded antibody agent.

[233] It is also shown that antibody agent is expressed upon in vivo administration of RNA encoding it. In particular, it is shown that antibody agent is expressed upon intravenous administration of RNA encoding it.

[234] RNA comprising a 5' UTR comprising the sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 18 or SEQ ID NO: 20 has been shown to be suitable.

[235] Furthermore, RNA comprising a 3' UTR comprising an FI element, in particular the sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 22, has been shown to be suitable.

[236] RNA comprising a 3' UTR comprising the sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 19 or SEQ ID NO: 21 has been shown to be suitable.

[237] Thus, RNA comprising a 5' UTR which comprises the sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 18 or SEQ ID NO: 20, and a 3' UTR which comprises the sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 19 or SEQ ID NO: 21 has been shown to be suitable.

[238] In particular, RNA comprising a 5' UTR which comprises the sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 18 and a 3' UTR which comprises the sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 19 has been shown to be suitable.

[239] In particular, RNA comprising a 5' UTR which comprises the sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 20 and a 3' UTR which comprises the sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 21 has been shown to be suitable.

[240] RNA comprising a polyA sequence, in particular the sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 23, has been shown to be suitable.

[241] RNA comprising a first RNA comprising the sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 24 or SEQ ID NO: 26, and a second RNA comprising the sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 25 or SEQ ID NO: 27 has been shown to be suitable. [242] RNA comprising a first RNA comprising the sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 24, and a second RNA comprising the sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 25 has been shown to be suitable.

[243] In particular, RNA comprising a first RNA comprising the sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 26, and a second RNA comprising the sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 27 has been shown to be suitable.

[244] Furthermore, RNA formulated in lipid nanoparticles has been shown to be suitable.

B. Exemplary manufacturing processes 45] Individual RNAs can be produced by methods known in the art. For example, in some embodiments, RNAs can be produced by in vitro transcription, for example, using a DNA template. A plasmid DNA used as a template for in vitro transcription to generate an RNA described herein is also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[246] A DNA template is used for in vitro RNA synthesis in the presence of an appropriate RNA polymerase (e.g., a recombinant RNA-polymerase such as a T7 RNA- polymerase) with ribonucleotide triphosphates (e.g., ATP, CTP, GTP, UTP). In some embodiments, RNAs (e.g., ones described herein) can be synthesized in the presence of modified ribonucleotide triphosphates. By way of example only, in some embodiments, Nl- methylpseudouridine triphosphate ( ^mlv PTP) can be used to replace uridine triphosphate (UTP).

As will be clear to those skilled in the art, during in vitro transcription, an RNA polymerase (e.g., as described and/or utilized herein) typically traverses at least a portion of a DNA template in the 3'— » 5' direction to produce a complementary RNA in the 5'—* 3' direction.

[247] In some embodiments where an RNA comprises a polyA tail, one of those skill in the art will appreciate that such a polyA tail may be encoded in a DNA template, e.g., by using an appropriately tailed PCR primer, or it can be added to an RNA after in vitro transcription, e.g., by enzymatic treatment (e.g., using a poly(A) polymerase such as an E. coli Poly(A) polymerase).

[248] In some embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that addition of a 5' cap to an RNA (e.g., mRNA) can facilitate recognition and attachment of the RNA to a ribosome to initiate translation and enhances translation efficiency. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that a 5' cap can also protect an RNA product from 5' exonuclease mediated degradation and thus increases half-life. Methods for capping are known in the art; one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that in some embodiments, capping may be performed after in vitro transcription in the presence of a capping system (e.g., an enzyme-based capping system such as, e.g., capping enzymes of vaccinia virus). In some embodiments, a cap may be introduced during in vitro transcription, along with a plurality of ribonucleotide triphosphates such that a cap is incorporated into an RNA during transcription (also known as co- transcriptional capping). In some embodiments, a 5’cap analog for co-transcriptionally capping (e.g., ones described herein such as, e.g., m2 ⁷ ’ ³ -OGppp(m ^{2 -0} )ApG) can be used during in vitro transcription. During polymerization, RNA is capped at the 5 '-end with a 5’ cap analog (e.g., m2 ^{7 3 -0} Gppp(m ^{2 -0} )ApG). In some embodiments, a GTP fed-batch procedure with multiple additions in the course of the reaction may be used to maintain a low concentration of GTP in order to effectively cap the RNA.

[249] Following RNA transcription, a DNA template is digested. In some embodiments, digestion can be achieved with the use of DNase 1 under appropriate conditions.

[250] In some embodiments, in-vitro transcribed RNAs may be provided in a buffered solution, for example, in a buffer such as HEPES, a phosphate buffer solution, a citrate buffer solution, an acetate buffer solution; in some embodiments, such solution may be buffered to a pH within a range of, for example, about 6.5 to about 7.5; in some embodiments approximately 7.0. In some embodiments, production of RNAs may further include one or more of the following steps: purification, mixing, filtration, and/or filling.

[251] In some embodiments, RNAs can be purified (e.g., in some embodiments after in vitro transcription reaction), for example, to remove components utilized or formed in the course of the production, like, e.g., proteins, DNA fragments, and/or or nucleotides. Various nucleic acid purifications that are known in the art can be used in accordance with the present disclosure. Certain purification steps may be or include, for example, one or more of precipitation, column chromatography (including, e.g. , but not limited to anionic, cationic, hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC)), solid substrate-based purification (e.g., magnetic bead-based purification). In some embodiments, RNAs may be purified using magnetic bead-based purification, which in some embodiments may be or comprise magnetic bead-based chromatography. In some embodiments, RNAs may be purified using hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) and/or diafiltration. In some embodiments, RNAs may be purified using HIC followed by diafiltration.

[252] In some embodiments, dsRNA may be obtained as side product during in vitro transcription. In some such embodiments, a second purification step may be performed to remove dsRNA contamination. For example, in some embodiments, cellulose materials (e.g., microcrystalline cellulose) may be used to remove dsRNA contamination, for examples in some embodiments in a chromatographic format. In some embodiments, cellulose materials (e.g., microcrystalline cellulose) can be pretreated to inactivate potential RNase contamination, for example in some embodiments by autoclaving followed by incubation with aqueous basic solution, e.g., NaOH. In some embodiments, cellulose materials may be used to purify RNAs according to methods described in WO 2017/182524, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[253] In some embodiments, a batch of RNAs may be further processed by one or more steps of filtration and/or concentration. For example, in some embodiments, RNA(s), for example, after removal of dsRNA contamination, may be further subject to diafiltration (e.g., in some embodiments by tangential flow filtration), for example, to adjust the concentration of RNAs to a desirable RNA concentration and/or to exchange buffer to a drug substance buffer.

[254] In some embodiments where a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent is encoded by a first RNA encoding a heavy chain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent and a second RNA encoding a light chain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent such that both, when both translated and expressed, form a full antibody, a batch of a first RNA and a batch of a second RNA, each after purification (e.g., as described herein) can be mixed in an appropriate ratio. For example, in some embodiments, such a first RNA batch and a second RNA batch may be mixed in a molar ratio of about 1 : 1.5 to about 1.5:1, e.g., in some embodiments in molar ratio of about 1 :1.

[255] In some embodiments, RNAs may be processed through 0.2 pm filtration before they are filled into appropriate containers.

[256] In some embodiments, RNAs and compositions thereof may be manufactured in accordance with a process as described herein, or as otherwise known in the art.

[257] In some embodiments, RNAs and compositions thereof may be manufactured at a large scale. For example, in some embodiments, a batch of RNAs can be manufactured at a scale of greater than 1 g, greater than 2 g, greater than 3 g, greater than 4 g, greater than 5 g, greater than 6 g, greater than 7 g, greater than 8 g, greater than 9 g, greater than 10 g, greater than 15 g, greater than 20 g, or higher.

[258] In some embodiments, RNA quality control may be performed and/or monitored at any time during production process of RNAs and/or compositions comprising the same. For example, in some embodiments, RNA quality control parameters, including one or more of RNA identity (e.g., sequence, length, and/or RNA natures), RNA integrity, RNA concentration, residual DNA template, and residual dsRNA, may be assessed and/or monitored after each or certain steps of an RNA manufacturing process, e.g., after in vitro transcription, and/or each purification step.

[259] In some embodiments, the stability of RNAs (e.g., produced by in vitro transcription) and/or compositions comprising two or more RNAs (e.g., one encoding a HC of an antibody and another encoding a LC of the antibody) can be assessed under various test storage conditions, for example, at room temperatures vs. fridge or sub-zero temperatures over a period of time (e.g., at least 3 months, at least 6 months, at least 9 months, at least 12 months, or longer). In some embodiments, RNAs (e.g., ones described herein) and/or compositions thereof may be stored stable at a fridge temperature (e.g., about 4°C to about 10°C) for at least 1 month or longer including, at least 2 months, at least 3 months, at least 4 months, at least 5 months, at least 6 months, at least 7 months, at least 8 months, at least 9 months, at least 10 months, at least 11 months, or at least 12 months or longer. In some embodiments, RNAs (e.g., ones described herein) and/or compositions thereof may be stored stable at a sub-zero temperature (e.g., -20°C or below) for at least 1 month or longer including, at least 2 months, at least 3 months, at least 4 months, at least 5 months, at least 6 months, at least 7 months, at least 8 months, at least 9 months, at least 10 months, at least 11 months, or at least 12 months or longer. In some embodiments, RNAs (e.g., ones described herein) and/or compositions thereof may be stored stable at room temperature (e.g., at about 25°C) for at least 1 month or longer.

[260] In some embodiments, one or more assessments as described in Example 11 may be utilized during manufacture, or other preparation or use of RNAs (e.g., as a release test).

[261] In some embodiments, one or more quality control parameters may be assessed to determine whether RNAs described herein meet or exceed acceptance criteria (e.g., for subsequent formulation and/or release for distribution). In some embodiments, such quality control parameters may include, but are not limited to RNA integrity, RNA concentration, residual DNA template and/or residual dsRNA. Certain methods for assessing RNA quality are known in the art; for example, one of skill in the art will recognize that in some embodiments, one or more analytical tests can be used for RNA quality assessment. Examples of such certain analytical tests may include but are not limited to gel electrophoresis, UV absorption, and/or PCR assay.

[262] In some embodiments, a batch of RNAs may be assessed for one or more features as described herein to determine next action step(s). For example, a batch of RNAs can be designated for one or more further steps of manufacturing and/or formulation and/or distribution if RNA quality assessment indicates that such a batch of RNAs meets or exceeds the relevant acceptance criteria. Otherwise, an alternative action can be taken (e.g., discarding the batch) if such a batch of RNAs does not meet or exceed the acceptance criteria.

[263] In some embodiments, a batch of RNAs that satisfies assessment results can be utilized for one or more further steps of manufacturing and/or formulation and/or distribution.

IV. RNA delivery technologies

[264] Provided RNAs (e.g. , mRNA) may be delivered for therapeutic applications described herein using any appropriate methods known in the art, including, e.g. , delivery as naked RNAs, or delivery mediated by viral and/or non-viral vectors, polymer-based vectors, lipid-based vectors, nanoparticles (e.g., lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, lipidpolymer hybrid nanoparticles, etc.), and/or peptide-based vectors. See, e.g., Wadhwa et al. “Opportunities and Challenges in the Delivery of mRNA-Based Vaccines” Pharmaceutics (2020) 102 (27 pages), the content of which is incorporated herein by reference, for information on various approaches that may be useful for delivery of RNAs described herein.

[265] In some embodiments, one or more RNAs can be formulated with lipid nanoparticles for delivery (e.g., in some embodiments by intravenous injection).

[266] In some embodiments, lipid nanoparticles can be designed to protect RNAs (e.g., mRNA) from extracellular RNases and/or engineered for systemic delivery of the RNA to target cells (e.g., liver cells). In some embodiments, such lipid nanoparticles may be particularly useful to deliver RNAs (e.g., mRNA) when RNAs are intravenously administered to a subject in need thereof.

A. Lipid nanoparticles

[267] In some embodiments, provided RNAs (e.g., mRNA) may be formulated with lipid nanoparticles. In various embodiments, such lipid nanoparticles can have an average size (e.g., mean diameter) of about 30 nm to about 150 nm, about 40 nm to about 150 nm, about 50 nm to about 150 nm, about 60 nm to about 130 nm, about 70 nm to about 110 nm, about 70 nm to about 100 nm, about 70 to about 90 nm, or about 70 mn to about 80 nm. In some embodiments, lipid nanoparticles that may be useful in accordance with the present disclosure can have an average size (e.g., mean diameter) of about 50 nm to about 100 nm. In some embodiments, lipid nanoparticles may have an average size (e.g., mean diameter) of about 50 nm to about 150 nm. In some embodiments, lipid nanoparticles may have an average size (e.g., mean diameter) of about 60 nm to about 120 nm. In some embodiments, lipid nanoparticles that may be useful in accordance with the present disclosure can have an average size (e.g., mean diameter) of about 30 nm, 35 nm, 40 nm, 45 nm, 50 nm, 55 nm, 60 nm, 65 nm, 70 nm, 75 nm, 80 nm, 85 nm, 90 nm, 95 nm, 100 nm, 105 nm, HO nm, 115 nm, 120 nm, 125 nm, 130 nm, 135 nm, 140 nm, 145 nm, or 150 nm.

[268] In certain embodiments, RNAs (e.g., RNAs), when present in provided lipid nanoparticles, are resistant in aqueous solution to degradation with a nuclease.

[269] In some embodiments, lipid nanoparticles are liver-targeting lipid nanoparticles [270] In some embodiments, lipid nanoparticles are cationic lipid nanoparticles comprising one or more cationic lipids (e.g., ones described herein). In some embodiments, cationic lipid nanoparticles may comprise at least one cationic lipid, at least one polymer- conjugated lipid, and at least one helper lipid (e.g., at least one neutral lipid).

1. Helper lipids

[271] In some embodiments, a lipid nanoparticle for delivery of RNA(s) described herein comprises at least one helper lipid, which may be a neutral lipid, a positively charged lipid, or a negatively charged lipid. In some embodiments, a helper lipid is a lipid that is useful for increasing the effectiveness of delivery of lipid-based particles such as cationic lipid-based particles to a target cell. In some embodiments, a helper lipid may be or comprise a structural lipid with its concentration chosen to optimize LNP particle size, stability, and/or encapsulation.

[272] In some embodiments, a lipid nanoparticle for delivery of RNA(s) described herein comprises a neutral helper lipid. Examples of such neutral helper lipids include, but are not limited to phosphatidylcholines such as l,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3 -phosphocholine (DSPC), 1 ,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3 -phosphocholine (DPPC), 1 ,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3- phosphocholine (DMPC), l-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC), 1 ,2- dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3 -phosphocholine (DOPC), phophatidylethanolamines such as 1,2-dioleoyl- sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DOPE), sphingomyelins (SM), ceramides, cholesterol, steroids such as sterols and their derivatives. Neutral lipids may be synthetic or naturally derived. Other neutral helper lipids that are known in the art, e.g., as described in WO 2017/075531 and WO 2018/081480, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference for the purposes described herein, can also be used in lipid nanoparticles described herein. In some embodiments, a lipid nanoparticle for delivery of RNA(s) described herein comprises DSPC and/or cholesterol.

[273] In some embodiments, a lipid nanoparticle for delivery of RNA(s) described herein comprises at least two helper lipids (e.g., ones described herein). In some such embodiments, a lipid nanoparticle may comprise DSPC and cholesterol.

2. Cationic lipids

[274] In some embodiments, a lipid nanoparticle for delivery of RNA(s) described herein comprises a cationic lipid. A cationic lipid is typically a lipid having a net positive charge. In some embodiments, a cationic lipid may comprise one or more amine group(s) which bear a positive charge. In some embodiments, a cationic lipid may comprise a cationic, meaning positively charged, headgroup. In some embodiments, a cationic lipid may have a hydrophobic domain (e.g., one or more domains of a neutral lipid or an anionic lipid) provided that the cationic lipid has a net positive charge. In some embodiments, a cationic lipid comprises a polar headgroup, which in some embodiments may comprise one or more amine derivatives such as primary, secondary, and/or tertiary amines, quaternary ammonium, various combinations of amines, amidinium salts, or guanidine and/or imidazole groups as well as pyridinium, piperizine and amino acid headgroup s such as lysine, arginine, ornithine and/or tryptophan. In some embodiments, a polar headgroup of a cationic lipid comprises one or more amine derivatives. In some embodiments, a polar headgroup of a cationic lipid comprises a quaternary ammonium. In some embodiments, a headgroup of a cationic lipid may comprise multiple cationic charges. In some embodiments, a headgroup of a cationic lipid comprises one cationic charge. Examples of monocationic lipids include, but are not limited to l,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3- ethylphosphocholine (DMEPC), 1 ,2-di-O-octadecenyl- 3 -trimethylammonium propane (DOTMA) and/or 1 ,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium propane (DOTAP), l,2-dimyristoyl-3- trimethylammonium propane (DMTAP), 2,3- di(tetradecoxy)propyl-(2-hydroxyethyl)- dimethylazanium bromide (DMRIE), didodecyl(dimethyl)azanium bromide (DDAB), 1 ,2- dioleyloxypropyl-3 -dimethyl - hydroxyethyl ammonium bromide (DORIE), 3P-[N-(N\N'- dimethylamino- ethane)carbamoyl]cholesterol (DC-Choi) and/or dioleyl ether phosphatidylcholine (DOEPC).

[275] In some embodiments, a positively charged lipid structure described herein may also include one or more other components that may be typically used in the formation of vesicles (e.g. for stabilization). Examples of such other components includes, without being limited thereto, fatty alcohols, fatty acids, and/or cholesterol esters or any other pharmaceutically acceptable excipients which may affect the surface charge, the membrane fluidity and assist in the incorporation of the lipid into the lipid assembly. Examples of sterols include cholesterol, cholesteryl hemisuccinate, cholesteryl sulfate, or any other derivatives of cholesterol. Preferably, the at least one cationic lipid comprises DMEPC and/or DOTMA.

[276] In some embodiments, a cationic lipid is ionizable such that it can exist in a positively charged form or neutral form depending on pH. Such ionization of a cationic lipid can affect the surface charge of the lipid particle under different pH conditions, which in some embodiments may influence plasma protein absorption, blood clearance, and/or tissue distribution as well as the ability to form endosomolytic non-bilayer structures. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a cationic lipid may be or comprise a pH responsive lipid. In some embodiments a pH responsive lipid is a fatty acid derivative or other amphiphilic compound which is capable of forming a lyotropic lipid phase, and which has a pKa value between pH 5 and pH 7.5. This means that the lipid is uncharged at a pH above the pKa value and positively charged below the pKa value. In some embodiments, a pH responsive lipid may be used in addition to or instead of a cationic lipid for example by binding one or more RNAs to a lipid or lipid mixture at low pH. pH responsive lipids include, but are not limited to, 1,2- dioleyloxy-3 - dimethylamino-propane (DODMA).

[277] In some embodiments, a lipid nanoparticle may comprise one or more cationic lipids as described in WO 2017/075531 (e.g., as presented in Tables 1 and 3 therein) and WO 2018/081480 (e.g., as presented in Tables 1-4 therein), the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference for the purposes described herein.

[278] In some embodiments, a cationic lipid that may be useful in accordance with the present disclosure is an amino lipid comprising a titratable tertiary amino head group linked via ester bonds to at least two saturated alkyl chains, which ester bonds can be hydrolyzed easily to facilitate fast degradation and/or excretion via renal pathways. In some embodiments, such an amino lipid has an apparent pKa of about 6.0-6.5 (e.g., in one embodiment with an apparent pKa of approximately 6.25), resulting in an essentially fully positively charged molecule at an acidic pH (e.g., pH 5). In some embodiments, such an amino lipid, when incorporated in LNP, can confer distinct physicochemical properties that regulate particle formation, cellular uptake, fusogenicity and/or endosomal release of RNA(s). In some embodiments, introduction of an aqueous RNA solution to a lipid mixture comprising such an amino lipid at pH 4.0 can lead to an electrostatic interaction between the negatively charged RNA backbone and the positively charged cationic lipid. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, such electrostatic interaction leads to particle formation coincident with efficient encapsulation of RNA drug substance. After RNA encapsulation, adjustment of the pH of the medium surrounding the resulting LNP to a more neutral pH (e.g., pH 7.4) results in neutralization of the surface charge of the LNP. When all other variables are held constant, such charge-neutral particles display longer in vivo circulation lifetimes and better delivery to hepatocytes compared to charged particles, which are rapidly cleared by the reticuloendothelial system. Upon endosomal uptake, the low pH of the endosome renders LNP comprising such an amino lipid fusogenic and allows the release of the RNA into the cytosol of the target cell.

[279] In some embodiments, a cationic lipid that may be useful in accordance with the present disclosure has one of the structures set forth in Table 3 below:

Table 3: Exemplary cationic lipids

[280] In certain embodiments, a cationic lipid that may be useful in accordance with the present disclosure is or comprises ((3-hydroxypropyl)azanediyl)bis(nonane-9,l-diyl) bis(2- butyloctanoate) with a chemical structure shown in Example 14.

[281] Cationic lipids may be used alone or in combination with neutral lipids, e.g., cholesterol and/or neutral phospholipids, or in combination with other known lipid assembly components.

3- Polymer-conjugated lipids

[282] In some embodiments, a lipid nanoparticle for use in delivery of RNA(s) may comprise at least one polymer-conjugated lipid. A polymer-conjugated lipid is typically a molecule comprising a lipid portion and a polymer portion conjugated thereto.

[283] In some embodiments, a polymer-conjugated lipid is a PEG-conjugated lipid. In some embodiments, a PEG-conjugated lipid is designed to sterically stabilize a lipid particle by forming a protective hydrophilic layer that shields the hydrophobic lipid layer. In some embodiments, a PEG-conjugated lipid can reduce its association with serum proteins and/or the resulting uptake by the reticuloendothelial system when such lipid particles are administered in vivo.

[284] Various PEG-conjugated lipids are known in the art and include, but are not limited to pegylated diacylglycerol (PEG-DAG) such as l-(monomethoxy-polyethyleneglycol)- 2,3-dimyristoylglycerol (PEG-DMG), a pegylated phosphatidylethanoloamine (PEG-PE), a PEG succinate diacylglycerol (PEG-S-DAG) such as 4-O-(2' ,3 '-di(tetradecanoyloxy)propyl-l-O-(ω- methoxy(polyethoxy)ethyl)butanedioate (PEG-S-DMG), a pegylated ceramide (PEG-cer), or a PEG dialkoxypropylcarbamate such as co-methoxy(polyethoxy)ethyl-N-(2,3- di(tetradecanoxy)propyl)carbamate or 2,3-di(tetradecanoxy)propyl-N-(co methoxy(polyethoxy)ethyl)carbamate, and the like.

[285] Certain PEG-conjugated lipids (also known as PEGylated lipids) were clinically approved with safety demonstrated in clinical trials. PEG-conjugated lipids are known to affect cellular uptake, a prerequisite to endosomal localization and payload delivery. The present disclosure, among other things, provides an insight that the pharmacology of encapsulated nucleic acid can be controlled in a predictable manner by modulating the alkyl chain length of a PEG-lipid anchor. In some embodiments, the present disclosure, among other things, provides an insight that such PEG-conjugated lipids may be selected for an RNA/LNP drug product formulation to provide optimum delivery of RNAs to the liver. In some embodiments, such PEG- conjugated lipids may be designed and/or selected based on reasonable solubility characteristics and/or its molecular weight to effectively perform the function of a steric barrier. For example, in some embodiments, such a PEGylated lipid does not show appreciable surfactant or permeability enhancing or disturbing effects on biological membranes. In some embodiments, PEG in such a PEG-conjugated lipid can be linked to diacyl lipid anchors with a biodegradable amide bond, thereby facilitating fast degradation and/or excretion. In some embodiments, a LNP comprising a PEG-conjugated lipid retain a full complement of a PEGylated lipid. In the blood compartment, such a PEGylated lipid dissociates from the particle over time, revealing a more fusogenic particle that is more readily taken up by cells, ultimately leading to release of the RNA payload.

[286] In some embodiments, a lipid nanoparticle may comprise one or more PEG- conjugated lipids or pegylated lipids as described in WO 2017/075531 and WO 2018/081480, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference for the purposes described herein. For example, in some embodiments, a PEG-conjugated lipid that may be useful in accordance with the present disclosure can have a structure as described in WO 2017/075531, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, tautomer or stereoisomer thereof, wherein: Rg and R9 are each independently a straight or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl chain containing from 10 to 30 carbon atoms, wherein the alkyl chain is optionally interrupted by one or more ester bonds; and w has a mean value ranging from 30 to 60. In some embodiments, R8 and R9 are each independently straight, saturated alkyl chains containing from 12 to 16 carbon atoms. In some embodiments, w has a mean value ranging from 43 to 53. In other embodiments, the average w is about 45. In some embodiments, a PEG-conjugated lipid is or comprises 2-[(polyethylene glycol)-2000]-N,N -ditetradecylacetamide with a chemical structure as shown in Example 14.

[287] In some embodiments, lipids that form lipid nanoparticles described herein comprise: a polymer-conjugated lipid; a cationic lipid; and a helper neutral lipid. In some such embodiments, total polymer-conjugated lipid may be present in about 0.5-5 mol%, about 0.7-3.5 mol%, about 1-2.5 mol%, about 1.5-2 mol%, or about 1 .5-1.8 mol% of the total lipids. In some embodiments, total polymer-conjugated lipid may be present in about 1-2.5 mol% of the total lipids. In some embodiments, the molar ratio of total cationic lipid to total polymer-conjugated lipid (e.g., PEG-conjugated lipid) may be about 100:1 to about 20:1, or about 50:1 to about 20:1, or about 40: 1 to about 20: 1 , or about 35: 1 to about 25:1. In some embodiments, the molar ratio of total cationic lipid to total polymer-conjugated lipid may be about 35:1 to about 25: 1.

[288] In some embodiments involving a polymer-conjugated lipid, a cationic lipid, and a helper neutral lipid in lipid nanoparticles described herein, total cationic lipid is present in about 35-65 mol%, about 40-60 mol%, about 41-49 mol%, about 41-48 mol%, about 42-48 mol%, about 43-48 mol%, about 44-48 mol%, about 45-48 mol%, about 46-48 mol%, or about 47.2-47.8 mol% of the total lipids. In certain embodiments, total cationic lipid is present in about 47.0, 47.1, 47.2, 47.3, 47.4, 47.5, 47.6, 47.7, 47.8, 47.9 or 48.0 mol% of the total lipids.

[289] In some embodiments involving a polymer-conjugated lipid, a cationic lipid, and a helper neutral lipid in lipid nanoparticles described herein, total neutral lipid is present in about 35-65 mol%, about 40-60 mol%, about 45-55 mol%, or about 47-52 mol% of the total lipids. In some embodiments, total neutral lipid is present in 35-65 mol% of the total lipids. In some embodiments, total non-steroid neutral lipid (e.g., DPSC) is present in about 5-15 mol%, about 7-13 mol%, or 9-11 mol% of the total lipids. In some embodiments, total non-steroid neutral lipid is present in about 9.5, 10 or 10.5 mol% of the total lipids. In some embodiments, the molar ratio of the total cationic lipid to the non-steroid neutral lipid ranges from about 4.1 : 1 .0 to about 4.9: 1.0, from about 4.5: 1.0 to about 4.8: 1.0, or from about 4.7: 1.0 to 4.8: 1 .0. In some embodiments, total steroid neutral lipid (e.g., cholesterol) is present in about 35- 50 mol%, about 39-49 mol%, about 40-46 mol%, about 40- 44 mol%, or about 40-42 mol% of the total lipids. In certain embodiments, total steroid neutral lipid (e.g., cholesterol) is present in about 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, or 46 mol% of the total lipids. In certain embodiments, the molar ratio of total cationic lipid to total steroid neutral lipid is about 1.5:1 to 1 : 1.2, or about 1.2: 1 to 1 : 1.2.

[290] In some embodiments, a lipid composition comprising a cationic lipid, a polymer- conjugated lipid, and a neutral lipid can have individual lipids present in certain molar percents of the total lipids, or in certain molar ratios (relative to each other) as described in WO 2018/081480, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference for the purposes described herein.

[291] In some embodiments, lipids that form the lipid nanoparticles comprise: a polymer-conjugated lipid (e.g., PEG-conjugated lipid); a cationic lipid; and a neutral lipid, wherein the polymer-conjugated lipid is present in about 1-2.5 mol% of the total lipids; the cationic lipid is present in 35-65 mol% of the total lipids; and the neutral lipid is present in 35-65 mol% of the total lipids. In some embodiments, lipids that form the lipid nanoparticles comprise: a polymer-conjugated lipid (e.g., PEG-conjugated lipid); a cationic lipid; and a neutral lipid, wherein the polymer-conjugated lipid is present in about 1-2 mol% of the total lipids; the cationic lipid is present in 45-48.5 mol% of the total lipids; and the neutral lipid is present in 45- 55 mol% of the total lipids. In some embodiments, lipids that form the lipid nanoparticles comprise: a polymer-conjugated lipid (e.g., PEG-conjugated lipid); a cationic lipid; and a neutral lipid comprising a non-steroid neutral lipid and a steroid neutral lipid, wherein the polymer- conjugated lipid is present in about 1-2 mol% of the total lipids; the cationic lipid is present in 45-48.5 mol% of the total lipids; the non-steroid neutral lipid is present in 9-11 mol% of the total lipids; and the steroid neutral lipid is present in about 36-44 mol% of the total lipids. In many of such embodiments, a PEG-conjugated lipid is or comprises 2-[(polyethylene glycol)-2000]-N,N- ditetradecylacetamide or a derivative thereof. In many of such embodiments, a cationic lipid is or comprises ((3-hydroxypropyl)azanediyl)bis(nonane-9,l-diyl) bis(2 -butyloctanoate) or a derivative thereof. In many of such embodiments, a neutral lipid comprises DSPC and cholesterol, wherein DSPC is a non-steroid neutral lipid and cholesterol is a steroid neutral lipid.

[292] In some embodiments, RNA described herein is formulated in a lipid nanoparticle composition comprising a cationically ionizable lipid, e.g., a cationically ionizable lipid as shown above, a neutral lipid, a steroid, and a polymer conjugated lipid. In some embodiments, RNA described herein is formulated in a lipid nanoparticle composition comprising a cationically ionizable lipid shown in the above tables, a neutral lipid, a steroid, and a polymer conjugated lipid. In some embodiments, RNA described herein is formulated in a lipid nanoparticle composition comprising Cationic lipid A, a neutral lipid, a steroid, and a polymer conjugated lipid. In some embodiments, the neutral lipid is DSPC. In some embodiments, the steroid is cholesterol. In some embodiments, the polymer conjugated lipid is a pegylated lipid, e.g., PEG-conjugated lipid A. In some embodiments, RNA described herein is formulated in a lipid nanoparticle composition comprising a cationically ionizable lipid, e.g., a cationically ionizable lipid as shown above, a neutral lipid, a steroid, and a pegylated lipid. In some embodiments, RNA described herein is formulated in a lipid nanoparticle composition comprising a cationically ionizable lipid shown in the above tables, a neutral lipid, a steroid, and a pegylated lipid. In some embodiments, RNA described herein is formulated in a lipid nanoparticle composition comprising Cationic lipid A, a neutral lipid, a steroid, and a pegylated lipid. In some embodiments, the neutral lipid is DSPC. In some embodiments, the steroid is cholesterol. In some embodiments, the pegylated lipid is PEG-conjugated lipid A. In some embodiments, RNA described herein is formulated in a lipid nanoparticle composition comprising a cationically ionizable lipid, e.g., a cationically ionizable lipid as shown above, DSPC, cholesterol, and a pegylated lipid. In some embodiments, RNA described herein is formulated in a lipid nanoparticle composition comprising a cationically ionizable lipid shown in the above tables, DSPC, cholesterol, and a pegylated lipid. In some embodiments, RNA described herein is formulated in a lipid nanoparticle composition comprising Cationic lipid A, DSPC, cholesterol, and a pegylated lipid. In some embodiments, the pegylated lipid is PEG- conjugated lipid A. In some embodiments, RNA described herein is formulated in a lipid nanoparticle composition comprising a cationically ionizable lipid, e.g., a cationically ionizable lipid as shown above, DSPC, cholesterol, and PEG-conjugated lipid A. In some embodiments, RNA described herein is formulated in a lipid nanoparticle composition comprising a cationically ionizable lipid shown in the above tables, DSPC, cholesterol, and PEG-conjugated lipid A. In some embodiments, RNA described herein is formulated in a lipid nanoparticle composition comprising Cationic lipid A, DSPC, cholesterol, and PEG-conjugated lipid A. [293] Cationic lipid A: ((3-hydroxypropyl)azanediyl)bis(nonane-9,l-diyl) bis(2- butyloctanoate)

[295] PEG-conjugated lipid A: 2-[(polyethylene glycol)-2000]-A/A ^z - ditetradecylacetamide / 2-[2-(®-methoxy (polyethyleneglycol2000) ethoxy]-N,N- ditetradecylacetamide

[296]

[297] DSPC: l,2-Distearoyl-sn--glycero-3 -phosphocholine

[298]

[299]

[300]

[301] The N/P value is preferably at least about 4. In some embodiments, the N/P value ranges from 4 to 20, 4 to 12, 4 to 10, 4 to 8, or 5 to 7. In some embodiments, the N/P value is about 6.

B. Exemplary methods of making lipid nanoparticles

[302] Lipids and lipid nanoparticles comprising nucleic acids and their method of preparation are known in the art, including, e.g., as described in U.S. Patent Nos. 8,569,256, 5,965,542 and U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2016/0199485, 2016/0009637, 2015/0273068, 2015/0265708, 2015/0203446, 2015/0005363, 2014/0308304, 2014/0200257, 2013/086373, 2013/0338210, 2013/0323269, 2013/0245107, 2013/0195920, 2013/0123338, 2013/0022649, 2013/0017223, 2012/0295832, 2012/0183581, 2012/0172411, 2012/0027803, 2012/0058188, 2011/0311583, 2011/0311582, 2011/0262527, 2011/0216622, 2011/0117125, 2011/0091525, 2011/0076335, 2011/0060032, 2010/0130588, 2007/0042031, 2006/0240093, 2006/0083780, 2006/0008910, 2005/0175682, 2005/017054, 2005/0118253, 2005/0064595, 2004/0142025, 2007/0042031, 1999/009076 and PCT Pub. Nos. WO 99/39741, WO 2018/081480, WO 2017/004143, WO 2017/075531, WO 2015/199952, WO 2014/008334, WO 2013/086373, WO 2013/086322, WO 2013/016058, WO 2013/086373, W02011/141705, and WO 2001/07548, the full disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety for the purposes described herein.

[303] For example, in some embodiments, cationic lipids, neutral lipids (e.g., DSPC, and/or cholesterol) and polymer-conjugated lipids can be solubilized in ethanol at a predetermined molar ratio (e.g., ones described herein). In some embodiments, lipid nanoparticles (LNP) are prepared at a total lipid to RNAs weight ratio of approximately 10: 1 to 30: 1. In some embodiments, such RNAs can be diluted to 0.2 mg/mL in acetate buffer.

[304] In some embodiments, using an ethanol injection technique, a colloidal lipid dispersion comprising RNAs can be formed as follows: an ethanol solution comprising lipids, such as cationic lipids, neutral lipids, and polymer-conjugated lipids, is injected into an aqueous solution comprising RNAs (e.g., ones described herein).

[305] In some embodiments, lipid and RNA solutions can be mixed at room temperature by pumping each solution at controlled flow rates into a mixing unit, for example, using piston pumps. In some embodiments, the flow rates of a lipid solution and a RNA solution into a mixing unit are maintained at a ratio of 1:3. Upon mixing, nucleic acid-lipid particles are formed as the ethanolic lipid solution is diluted with aqueous RNAs. The lipid solubility is decreased, while cationic lipids bearing a positive charge interact with the negatively charged RNA.

[306] In some embodiments, a solution comprising RNA-encapsulated lipid nanoparticles can be processed by one or more of concentration adjustment, buffer exchange, formulation, and/or filtration.

[307] In some embodiments, RNA-encapsulated lipid nanoparticles can be processed through filtration, e.g., 0.2 pm filtration.

[308] In some embodiments, particle size and/or internal structure of lipid nanoparticles may be monitored by appropriate techniques such as, e.g., small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and/or transmission electron cryomicroscopy (CryoTEM). V. Provided pharmaceutical compositions targeting Claudin-18.2

[309] In some embodiments, a composition comprises provided RNA(s) that encodes a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent. In some embodiments, such RNA(s) maybe formulated with lipid nanoparticles (e.g., ones described herein) for administration to subject in need thereof. Accordingly, one aspect provided herein relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising provided RNA(s) that encodes a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent and lipid nanoparticles (e.g., ones described herein), wherein such RNA(s) are encapsulated with the lipid nanoparticles.

[310] In some embodiments where a pharmaceutical composition comprises a first RNA encoding a variable heavy chain (VH) domain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent (e.g., ones described herein) and a second RNA encoding a variable light chain VL) domain of the antibody agent (e.g., ones described herein), such a first RNA and a second RNA may be present in a molar ratio of about 1.5:1 to about 1:1.5, or in some embodiments in a molar ratio of about 1.2:1 to about 1 :1.2, or in some embodiments in a molar ratio of about 1 :1. In some embodiments, a first RNA encoding a variable heavy chain (VH) domain of a CLDN-18.2- targeting antibody agent (e.g., ones described herein) and a second RNA encoding a variable light chain (VL) domain of the antibody agent (e.g., ones described herein) maybe present in a weight ratio of 3 : 1 to 1 : 1 , or in some embodiments in a weight ratio of about 2: 1.

[311] In some embodiments, RNA content (e.g., one or more RNAs encoding a CLDN- 18.2-targeting antibody agent) of a pharmaceutical composition described herein is present at a concentration of about 0.5 mg/mL to about 1.5 mg/mL, or about 0.8 mg/mL to about 1.2 mg/mL.

[312] Pharmaceutical formulations may additionally comprise a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient, which, as used herein, includes any and all solvents, dispersion media, diluents, or other liquid vehicles, dispersion or suspension aids, surface active agents, isotonic agents, thickening or emulsifying agents, preservatives, solid binders, lubricants and the like, as suited to the particular dosage form desired. Remington's The Science and Practice of Pharmacy, 21st Edition, A. R. Gennaro (Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, Baltimore, MD, 2006; incorporated herein by reference) discloses various excipients used in formulating pharmaceutical compositions and known techniques for the preparation thereof. Except insofar as any conventional excipient medium is incompatible with a substance or its derivatives, such as by producing any undesirable biological effect or otherwise interacting in a deleterious manner with any other component(s) of the pharmaceutical composition, its use is contemplated to be within the scope of this disclosure.

[313] In some embodiments, an excipient is approved for use in humans and for veterinary use. In some embodiments, an excipient is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration. In some embodiments, an excipient is pharmaceutical grade. In some embodiments, an excipient meets the standards of the United States Pharmacopoeia (USP), the European Pharmacopoeia (EP), the British Pharmacopoeia, and/or the International Pharmacopoeia.

[314] Pharmaceutically acceptable excipients used in the manufacture of pharmaceutical compositions include, but are not limited to, inert diluents, dispersing and/or granulating agents, surface active agents and/or emulsifiers, disintegrating agents, binding agents, preservatives, buffering agents, lubricating agents, and/or oils. Such excipients may optionally be included in pharmaceutical formulations. Excipients such as cocoa butter and suppository waxes, coloring agents, coating agents, sweetening, flavoring, and/or perfuming agents can be present in the composition, according to the judgment of the formulator.

[315] General considerations in the formulation and/or manufacture of pharmaceutical agents may be found, for example, in Remington: The Science and Practice of Pharmacy 21st ed., Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2005 (incorporated herein by reference).

[316] In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions provided herein may be formulated with one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers or diluents as well as any other known adjuvants and excipients in accordance with conventional techniques such as those disclosed in Remington: The Science and Practice of Pharmacy 21st ed., Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2005 (incorporated herein by reference).

[317] Pharmaceutical compositions described herein can be administered by appropriate methods known in the art. As will be appreciated by a skilled artisan, the route and/or mode of administration may depend on a number of factors, including, e.g., but not limited to stability and/or pharmacokinetics and/or pharmacodynamics of pharmaceutical compositions described herein. [318] In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein are formulated for parenteral administration, which includes modes of administration other than enteral and topical administration, usually by injection, and includes, without limitation, intravenous, intramuscular, intraarterial, intrathecal, intracap sular, intraorbital, intracardiac, intradermal, intraperitoneal, transtracheal, subcutaneous, subcuticular, intraarticular, subcapsular, subarachnoid, intraspinal, epidural and intrastemal injection and infusion.

[319] In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein are formulated for intravenous administration. In some embodiments, pharmaceutically acceptable carriers that may be useful for intravenous administration include sterile aqueous solutions or dispersions and sterile powders for preparation of sterile injectable solutions or dispersions.

[320] Therapeutic compositions typically must be sterile and stable under the conditions of manufacture and storage. The composition can be formulated as a solution, dispersion, powder (e.g., lyophilized powder), microemulsion, lipid nanoparticles, or other ordered structure suitable to high drug concentration. The carrier can be a solvent or dispersion medium containing, for example, water, ethanol, polyol (for example, glycerol, propylene glycol, and liquid polyethylene glycol, and the like), and suitable mixtures thereof. The proper fluidity can be maintained, for example, by the use of a coating such as lecithin, by the maintenance of the required particle size in the case of dispersion and by the use of surfactants. In many cases, it will be preferable to include isotonic agents, for example, sugars, polyalcohols such as mannitol, sorbitol, or sodium chloride in the composition. In some embodiments, prolonged absorption of the injectable compositions can be brought about by including in the composition an agent that delays absorption, for example, monostearate salts and gelatin.

[321] Sterile injectable solutions can be prepared by incorporating the active compound in the required amount in an appropriate solvent with one or a combination of ingredients enumerated above, as required, followed by sterilization and/or microfiltration. In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions can be prepared as described herein and/or methods known in the art.

[322] In some embodiments, dispersions are prepared by incorporating the active compound into a sterile vehicle that contains a basic dispersion medium and the required other ingredients from those enumerated above. In the case of sterile powders for the preparation of sterile injectable solutions, the preferred methods of preparation are vacuum drying and freeze- drying (lyophilization) that yield a powder of the active ingredient plus any additional desired ingredient from a previously sterile-filtered solution thereof.

[323] Examples of suitable aqueous and nonaqueous carriers which may be employed in the pharmaceutical compositions described herein include water, ethanol, polyols (such as glycerol, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, and the like), and suitable mixtures thereof, vegetable oils, such as olive oil, and injectable organic esters, such as ethyl oleate. Proper fluidity can be maintained, for example, by the use of coating materials, such as lecithin, by the maintenance of the required particle size in the case of dispersions, and by the use of surfactants.

[324] These compositions may also contain adjuvants such as preservatives, wetting agents, emulsifying agents and dispersing agents. Prevention of the presence of microorganisms may be ensured both by sterilization procedures, and by the inclusion of various antibacterial and antifungal agents, for example, paraben, chlorobutanol, phenol sorbic acid, and the like. It may also be desirable to include isotonic agents, such as sugars, sodium chloride, and the like into pharmaceutical compositions described herein. In addition, prolonged absorption of the injectable pharmaceutical form may be brought about by the inclusion of agents which delay absorption such as aluminum monostearate and gelatin.

[325] Formulations of pharmaceutical compositions described herein may be prepared by any method known or hereafter developed in the art of pharmacology. In general, such preparatory methods include the step of bringing active ingredient(s) into association with a diluent or another excipient and/or one or more other accessory ingredients, and then, if necessary and/or desirable, shaping and/or packaging the product into a desired single- or multidose unit.

[326] A pharmaceutical composition in accordance with the present disclosure may be prepared, packaged, and/or sold in bulk, as a single unit dose, and/or as a plurality of single unit doses. As used herein, a "unit dose" is discrete amount of the pharmaceutical composition comprising a predetermined amount of at least one RNA product produced using a system and/or method described herein.

[327] Relative amounts of RNAs encapsulated in LNPs, a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient, and/or any additional ingredients in a pharmaceutical composition can vary, depending upon the subject to be treated, target cells, diseases or disorders, and may also further depend upon the route by which the composition is to be administered.

[328] In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein are formulated into pharmaceutically acceptable dosage forms by conventional methods known to those of skill in the art. Actual dosage levels of the active ingredients (e.g., RNAs encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles) in the pharmaceutical compositions described herein may be varied so as to obtain an amount of the active ingredient which is effective to achieve the desired therapeutic response for a particular patient, composition, and mode of administration, without being toxic to the patient. The selected dosage level will depend upon a variety of pharmacokinetic factors including the activity of the particular compositions of the present disclosure employed, the route of administration, the time of administration, the rate of excretion of the particular compound being employed, the duration of the treatment, other drugs, compounds and/or materials used in combination with the particular compositions employed, the age, sex, weight, condition, general health and prior medical history of the patient being treated, and like factors well known in the medical arts.

[329] A physician or veterinarian having ordinary skill in the art can readily determine and prescribe the effective amount of the pharmaceutical composition required. For example, a physician or veterinarian could start doses of active ingredients (e.g., RNAs encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles) employed in the pharmaceutical composition at levels lower than that required in order to achieve the desired therapeutic effect and gradually increase the dosage until the desired effect is achieved. For example, exemplary doses as described Example 8 may be used in preparing pharmaceutically acceptable dosage forms.

[330] In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein is formulated (e.g., for intravenous administration) to deliver an active dose that confers a plasma concentration of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent encoded by RNA(s) (e.g., ones described herein) that mediates pharmacological activity via its dominant mode of action, ADCC. For IMAB362, the dose-response correlation for ADCC is clinically well characterized and efficient lysis of CLDN-18.2+ cells through ADCC with an EC95 of 0.3-28 μg/mL has been reported (Sahin et al. 2018). Thus, in some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein is formulated (e.g., for intravenous administration) to deliver an active dose that confers a plasma concentration of about 0.3-28 μg/mL of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent encoded by RNA(s) (e.g., ones described herein) that mediates pharmacological activity via its dominant mode of action, ADCC.

[331] In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein is formulated (e.g., for intravenous administration) to deliver one or more RNAs described herein (e.g., mRNA) encoding an antibody agent directed to CLDN-18.2 at a level expected to achieve level (e.g., plasma level and/or tissue level) of antibody above about 0.1 μg/mL; in some embodiments, above about 0.2 μg/mL, 0.3 μg/mL, 0.4 μg/mL, 0.5 μg/mL, 0.6 μg/mL, 0.7 μg/mL, 0.8 μg/mL, 0.9 μg/mL, 1 μg/mL, 1.5 μg/mL, 2 μg/mL, 5 μg/mL, 8 μg/mL, 10 μg/mL, 15 μg/mL, 20 μg/mL, 25 μg/mL, or have a range up to and above what is observed with antibody administration.

[332] In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition is formulated (e.g. , for intravenous administration) to deliver a dose of 0.15 mg RNA/kg corresponding to approximately 7 μg/mL CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent at Cmax. Figure 14 shows the dose-exposure correlation of RNA drag substance encoding CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent in cynomolgus monkey at tmax (48 hours). As will be appreciated by a skilled artisan, assuming that LNP-transfection efficacy and mRNA translation is comparable between cynomolgus monkey and humans (Coelho et al. 2013), a pharmaceutical composition, in some embodiments, is formulated (e.g., for intravenous administration) to deliver an appropriate dose corresponding to desirable plasma level of CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent encoded by RNA(s) as shown in Figure 14.

[333] In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein is formulated e.g., for intravenous administration) to deliver a dose of one or more RNAs (e.g., mRNA) encoding an antibody agent directed to CLDN-18.2 at a dose as described in Example 8, including, e.g., at a dose of 0.15 mg/kg, 0.2 mg/kg, 0.225 mg/kg, 0.25 mg/kg, 0.3 mg/kg, 0.35 mg/kg, 0.4 mg/kg, 0.45 mg/kg, 0.5 mg/kg, 0.55 mg/kg, 0.6 mg/kg, 0.65 mg/kg, 0.7 mg/kg, 0.75 mg/kg, 0.80 mg/kg, 0.85 mg/kg, 0.9 mg/kg, 0.95 mg/kg, 1.0 mg/kg, 1.25 mg/kg, 1.5 mg/kg, 1.75 mg/kg, 2.0 mg/kg, 2.25 mg/kg, 2.5 mg/kg, 2.75 mg/kg, 3.0 mg/kg, 3.25 mg/kg, 3.5 mg/kg, 4 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, or higher. In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein is formulated (e.g., for intravenous administration) to deliver a dose of one or more RNAs (e.g., mRNA) encoding an antibody agent directed to CLDN-18.2 at a dose of 1.5 mg/kg. In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein is formulated to deliver a dose of one or more RNAs (e.g., mRNA) encoding an antibody agent directed to CLDN-18.2 at a dose of 5 mg/kg.

[334] In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein may further comprise one or more additives, for example, in some embodiments that may enhance stability of such a composition under certain conditions. Examples of additives may include but are not limited to salts, buffer substances, preservatives, and carriers. For example, in some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition may further comprise a cryoprotectant (e.g., sucrose) and/or an aqueous buffered solution, which may in some embodiments include one or more salts, including, e.g., alkali metal salts or alkaline earth metal salts such as, e.g., sodium salts, potassium salts, and/or calcium salts.

[335] In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein may further comprises one or more active agents other than RNA (e.g., an ssRNA such as an mRNA) encoding a CLDN-18.2-targeting agent (e.g., antibody agent). For example, in some embodiments, such an other active agent may be or comprise a chemotherapeutic agent. In some embodiments, an exemplary chemotherapeutic agent may be or comprise a chemotherapeutic agent indicated for treatment of pancreatic cancer, including, e.g., but not limited to gemcitabine, and/or paclitaxel (e.g., nab-paclitaxel), folinic acid, fluorouracil, irinotecan, and/or oxaliplatin, etc. In some embodiments, an exemplary chemotherapeutic agent may be or comprise a chemotherapeutic agent indicated for treatment of biliary tract cancer, including, e.g., but not limited to gemcitabine and/or cisplatin.

[336] In some embodiments, an active agent that may be included in a pharmaceutical composition described herein is or comprises a therapeutic agent administered in a combination therapy described herein. Pharmaceutical compositions described herein can be administered in combination therapy, i.e., combined with other agents. For example, in some embodiments, a combination therapy can include a provided pharmaceutical composition with at least one antiinflammatory agent or at least one immunosuppressive agent. Examples of such therapeutic agents include but are not limited to one or more anti-inflammatory agents, such as a steroidal drug or a N SAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug), aspirin and other salicylates, Cox-2 inhibitors, such as rofecoxib (Vioxx) and celecoxib (Celebrex), NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), fenoprofen (Nalfon), naproxen (Naprosyn), sulindac (Clinoril), diclofenac (Voltaren), piroxicam (Feldene), ketoprofen (Orudis), diflunisal (Dolobid), nabumetone (Relafen), etodolac (Lodine), oxaprozin (Daypro), and indomethacin (Indocin). In some embodiments, such therapeutic agents may include agents leading to depletion or functional inactivation of regulatory T cells, e.g., low dose cyclophosphamid, anti-CTLA4 antibodies, anti- IL2 or anti-IL2 -receptor antibodies.

1337] In some embodiments, such therapeutic agents may include one or more chemo therapeutics, such as Taxol derivatives, taxotere, paclitaxel (e.g., nab-paclitaxel), gemcitabin, 5 -Fluoruracil, doxorubicin (Adriamycin), cisplatin (Platinol), cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan, Procytox, Neosar), folinic acid, irinotecan, oxaliplatin. In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein may be administered in combination with one or more chemotherapeutic agents, which can increase CLDN-18.2 expression level in a tumor of a cancer patient to be treated, e.g., by at least 10% or more, including, e.g., at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or more.

[338] In some embodiments, pharmaceutical composition described herein may be administered in conjunction with radiotherapy and/or autologous peripheral stem cell or bone marrow transplantation.

[339] In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein may be administered in combination with one or more antibodies selected from anti-CD25 antibodies, anti- EPCAM antibodies, anti-EGFR, anti-Her2/neu, and anti-CD40 antibodies.

[340] In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein may be administered in combination with an anti-C3b(i) antibody in order to enhance complement activation.

[341] In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition provided herein is a preservative-free, sterile RNA-LNP dispersion in an aqueous buffer for intravenous administration. In some embodiments, a RNA drug substance (e.g., RNAs described herein) included in a pharmaceutical composition is filled at 0.8 to 1.2 mg/mL, to a 5.0 mL nominal fill volume. A pharmaceutical composition is stored at -80 to -60°C. [342] Although the descriptions of pharmaceutical compositions provided herein are principally directed to pharmaceutical compositions that are suitable for administration to humans, it will be understood by the skilled artisan that such compositions are generally suitable for administration to animals of all sorts. Modification of pharmaceutical compositions suitable for administration to humans in order to render the compositions suitable for administration to various animals is well understood, and the ordinarily skilled veterinary pharmacologist can design and/or perform such modification with merely ordinary, if any, experimentation.

A, Identification and/or characterization of useful components

[343] To ensure appropriate quality of useful components (e.g., RNA(s) encoding CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent) in pharmaceutical compositions described herein, one or more quality assessments and/or relevant criteria (e.g., as described in Examples 11-12) may be performed and/or monitored.

[344] Among other things, the present disclosure provides methods of characterizing one or more features of an RNA or composition thereof, which RNA encodes part or all of an antibody agent.

[345] In some embodiments, RNA integrity assessment of RNA(s) (e.g., in some embodiments a composition comprising at least two RNAs each encoding a heavy chain or light chain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent) can be performed by adaptation of a capillary gel electrophoresis assay. In some embodiments, the proportion of the area of the longer HC- coding RNA is evaluated to describe the integrity of both RNAs encoding different chains of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent. For example, an RNA composition comprising two or more RNAs can be analyzed by capillary gel electrophoresis, which gives an electropherogram as a result. By way of example only, an RNA composition comprising two different RNAs elutes in two separated peaks, for example, each corresponding to RNA encoding for a distinct chain (e.g., heavy chain or light chain) of an antibody. See, e.g., Figure 15.

[346] The present disclosure, among other things, provides an insight that the molecular ratio strongly influences this parameter and the specification of the mixture is set dependent on the molecular ratio measured by droplet digital PCR. This specification is reliant on a given mixture defined by the exact sequences and weight ratio. [347] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, RNA ratio of an RNA encoding a heavy chain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent to an RNA encoding a light chain of the CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent can be measured by droplet digital PCR.

[348] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, residual DNA template and residual dsRNA are measured as in-process controls with acceptance criteria on the level of the drug substance intermediates to ensure individual RNA quality before mixing to the drug substance, for example, before mixing two RNAs encoding different chains of a CLDN-18.2- targeting antibody agent. In some embodiments, relevant acceptance criteria are used for in- process controls of the quality of individual RNAs.

[349] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, residual host cell DNA and/or host cell protein may be measured in compositions comprising RNAs.

B. Characterization of effective delivery (e.g., plasma concentration)

[350] In some embodiments, compositions and components thereof can be assessed to determine their efficacy. In some embodiments, primary pharmacodynamics and/or pharmacokinetics of pharmaceutical compositions described herein in vitro and/or in vivo can be determined. Examples of useful pharmacokinetics measurements may include one or more parameters:

* Cmax corresponds to maximum (or peak) plasma/serum concentration that a drug achieves in a specified compartment or test area of the body after the drug has been administered and before the administration of a second dose. The related pharmacokinetics parameter tmax is the time at which the Cmax is observed.

* Cmin corresponds to minimum plasma/serum concentration that a drug achieves after dosing.

• Chough corresponds to trough plasma concentration at the end of a dosing interval at steady state (typically taken directly before next administration)

• Area under the curve (AUC) is the definite integral of a curve that describes variation of a drug concentration in blood plasma as a function of time. The AUC (from zero to infinity) represents the total drug exposure across time.

[351] In some embodiments, functional assembly of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent encoded by RNAs can be determined in vitro and in vivo in a dose-dependent manner, e.g., as described in Example 6. [352] In some embodiments, binding specificity, mediation of ADCC and CDC, and/or anti-tumor activity of CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent encoded by RNA(s) described herein can be determined, e.g., as described in Examples 1-4.

[353] Among other things, the present disclosure provides a method comprising a step of: determining one or more features of an antibody agent expressed from at least one mRNA introduced into cells, wherein such at least one mRNA comprises one or more of features of at least one or more RNA comprising a coding region that encodes an antibody agent that binds to a Claudin-18.2 (CLDN-18.2) polypeptide, e.g., binds preferentially to a Claudin-18.2 (CLDN- 18.2) polypeptide relative to a Claudin-18.1 polypeptide, wherein such one or more features comprises: (i) protein expression level of an antibody agent; (ii) binding specificity of an antibody agent to CLDN-18.2; (iii) efficacy of an antibody agent to mediate target cell death through ADCC; and (iv) efficacy of an antibody agent to mediate target cell death through complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC).

[354] In some embodiments, provided herein is a method of characterizing a pharmaceutical composition targeting CLDN-18.2. Such a method comprises steps of: (a) contacting cells with at least one composition or pharmaceutical composition described herein (which encodes part or all of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent); and detecting an antibody agent produced by the cells. In some embodiments, the cells may be or comprise liver cells.

[355] In some embodiments, such a method may further comprise determining one or more features of an antibody agent expressed from one or more RNAs described herein, wherein such one or more features comprises: (i) protein expression level of the antibody agent; (ii) binding specificity of the antibody agent to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide; (iii) efficacy of the antibody agent to mediate target cell death through ADCC; and (iv) efficacy of the antibody agent to mediate target cell death through complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC). In some embodiments, a step of determining one or more features of an antibody agent expressed from one or more RNAs described herein may comprise comparing such features of the CLDN-18.2- targeting antibody agent with that of a reference CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody.

[356] In some embodiments, a step of determining one or more features of an antibody agent expressed from one or more RNAs described herein may comprise assessing the protein expression level of the antibody agent above a threshold level. For example, in some embodiments, a threshold level corresponds to a therapeutically relevant plasma concentration. [357] In some embodiments, a step of determining one or more features of an antibody agent expressed from one or more RNAs described herein may comprise assessing binding of the antibody agent to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide. In some embodiments, such binding assessment may comprise determining binding of the antibody agent to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide relative to its binding to a CLDN 18.1 polypeptide. In some embodiments, such binding assessment may comprise determining a binding preference profile of the antibody agent at least comparable to that of a reference CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody. For example, in some embodiments, a reference CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody is Zolbetuximab or Claudiximab.

[358] In some embodiments, a provided method of characterizing a pharmaceutical composition targeting CLDN-18.2 or components thereof may further comprise characterizing an antibody agent expressed from one or more RNAs described herein as a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent if the antibody agent comprises the following features: (a) protein level of the antibody agent expressed by the cells above a threshold level; (b) preferential binding of the antibody agent to CLDN-18.2 relative to CLDN18.1; and (c) killing of at least 50% target cells (e.g., cancer cells) mediated by ADCC and/or CDC.

[359] In some embodiments, a provided method of characterizing a pharmaceutical composition targeting CLDN-18.2 or components thereof may further comprise characterizing an antibody agent expressed from one or more RNAs described herein as a Zolbetuximab or Claudiximab-equivalent antibody if tested features of the antibody are at least comparable to that of Zolbetuximab or Claudiximab.

[360] In some embodiments involving a step of determining one or more features of an antibody agent expressed from one or more RNAs described herein, such a step may comprise determining one or more of the following features:

• whether, when assessed 48 hours after contacting or administering, cells express a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent encoded by at least one RNA;

• whether the antibody agent expressed by the cells binds preferentially to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide relative to a CLDN 18.1 polypeptide;

• whether the antibody agent expressed by the cells exhibit comparable target specificity to CLDN-18.2 as observed in a flow cytometric binding assay with a reference CLDN-18.2- targeting monoclonal antibody; • whether, when assessed 48 hours after incubating immune effector cells (e.g., PBMC cells) and CLDN-18.2 positive cells or CLDN-18.2 negative control cells in the presence of the antibody agent, the CLDN-18.2 positive cells, not the control cells, were lysed;

• whether the antibody agent expressed by the cells exhibit at least comparable ADCC profile of targeted CLDN-18.2 positive cells as observed with a reference CLDN-18.2- targeting monoclonal antibody in the same concentration; and

• whether, when assessed 2 hours after incubating CLDN-18.2 positive cells or CLDN-18.2 negative control cells with human serum in the presence of the antibody agent, the CLDN-18.2 positive cells, not the control cells, were lysed.

[361] In some embodiments, cells used in provided methods of characterizing a pharmaceutical composition targeting CLDN-18.2 or components thereof are present in vivo, e.g., in a subject (e.g., a mammalian subject such as a mammalian non-human subject, e.g., a mouse or monkey subject). In some such embodiments, a step of determining one or more features of an antibody agent expressed from one or more RNAs described herein may include determining antibody level in one or more tissues in such a subject. In some embodiments, such a method of characterizing may further comprise administering a composition or pharmaceutical composition described herein to a group of animal subjects each bearing a huma CLDN-18.2 positive xenograft tumor to determine anti-tumor activity, if such a composition or pharmaceutical composition is characterized as a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent.

[362] Also within the scope of the present disclosure includes a method of manufacture, which comprises steps of:

(A) determining one or more features of an RNA or composition thereof, which RNA encodes part or all of an antibody agent, which one or more features are selected from the group consisting of:

(i) length and/or sequence of the RNA;

(ii) integrity of the RNA;

(iii) presence and/or location of one or more chemical moieties of the RNA;

(iv) extent of expression of the antibody agent when the RNA is introduced into a cell;

(v) stability of the RNA or composition thereof;

(vi) level of antibody agent in a biological sample from an organism into which the RNA has been introduced; (vii) binding specificity of the antibody agent expressed from the RNA, optionally to CLDN-18.2 and optionally relative to CLDN18.1;

(viii) efficacy of the antibody agent to mediate target cell death through ADCC;

(ix) efficacy of the antibody agent to mediate target cell death through complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC);

(x) lipid identity and amount/concentration within the composition;

(xi) size of lipid nanoparticles within the composition;

(xii) polydispersity of lipid nanoparticles within the composition;

(xiii) amount/concentration of the RNA within the composition;

(xiv) extent of encapsulation of the RNA within lipid nanoparticles; and

(xv) combinations thereof;

(B) comparing such one or more features of the RNA or composition thereof with that of an appropriate reference standard; and

(C) (i) designating the RNA or composition thereof for one or more further steps of manufacturing and/or distribution if the comparison demonstrates that the RNA or composition thereof meets or exceeds the reference standard; or

(ii) taking an alternative action if the comparison demonstrates that the RNA or composition thereof does not meet or exceed the reference standard.

[363] In some embodiments, a reference standard can be any quality control standard, including, e.g., a historical reference, a set specification. As will be understood by a skilled artisan, in some embodiments, a direct comparison is not required. In some embodiments, a reference standard is an acceptance criterion based on, for example, physical appearance, lipid identity and/or content, LNP size, LNP polydispersity, RNA encapsulation, RNA length, identity (as RNA), integrity, sequence, and/or concentration, pH, osmolality, RNA ratio (e.g., ratio of a HC RNA to a LC RNA), potency, bacterial endotoxins, bioburden, residual organic solvent, osmolality, pH, and combinations thereof.

[364] In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein can be determined by one or more potency assays, namely, e.g., but not limited to in vitro translation, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and/or a T-cell activation bioassay. For example, in some embodiments, expression of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody encoded by RNA compositions (e.g., ones described herein) in cells can be measured in the culture supernatant of lipofected production cells by ELISA. In some such embodiments, supernatant of lipofected production cells may be added to a co-culture of CLDN-18.2-expressing target cells and FcRIIIa- positive luciferase reporter cells as effector cells. Simultaneous binding of the antibody to CLDN-18.2 and to the FcyRIIIa receptor leads to the activation of the effector cells and results in luciferase expression, which is quantified by luminescence readout.

[365] In some embodiments of a method of manufacture, when an RNA (e.g., ones described herein) is assessed and one or more features of the RNA meets or exceeds an appropriate reference standard, such an RNA is designated for formulation, e.g., in some embodiments involving formulation with lipid particles described herein.

[366] In some embodiments of a method of manufacture, when a composition comprising an RNA (e.g., ones described herein) is assessed and one or more features of the composition meets or exceeds an appropriate reference standard, such a composition is designated for release and/or distribution of the composition.

[367] In some embodiments of a method of manufacture, when an RNA (e.g., ones described herein) is designated for formulation, and/or a composition comprising an RNA (e.g., ones described herein) is designated for release and/or distribution of the composition, such a method may further comprise administering the formulation and/or composition to a group of animal subjects each bearing a huma CLDN-18.2 positive xenograft tumor to determine antitumor activity.

[368] Methods of producing a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent are also within the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, a method of producing a CLDN-18.2- targeting antibody agent comprises administering to cells a composition comprising at least one RNA (e.g., ones as described herein) comprising one or more coding regions that encode a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent so that such cells express and secrete a CLDN-18.2- targeting antibody agent encoded by such RNA(s). In some embodiments, cells to be administered or targeted are or comprise liver cells.

[369] In some embodiments, cells are present in a cell culture.

[370] In some embodiments, cells are present in a subject. In some such embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein may be administered to a subject in need thereof.

In some embodiments, such a pharmaceutical composition may be administered to a subject such that a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent is produced at a therapeutically relevant plasma concentration. In some embodiments, a therapeutically relevant plasma concentration is sufficient to mediate cancer cell death through antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). For example, in some embodiments, a therapeutically relevant plasma concentration is 0.3- 28 μg/mL.

VI. Exemplary cancers associated with high expression of CLDN-18.2 A. Solid tumors

[371] Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally and is expected to be responsible for an estimated 9.6 million deaths in 2018 (Bray et al. 2018). In general, once a solid tumor has metastasized, with a few exceptions such as germ cell and some carcinoid tumors, 5-year survival rarely exceeds 25%.

Treatment of Advanced and Metastatic Solid Tumors

[372] Refinements in conventional therapies such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and targeted therapies and recent advances in immunotherapies have improved outcomes in patients with advanced solid tumors. In the last few years, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) have approved eight checkpoint inhibitors (one monoclonal antibody targeting the CTLA-4 pathway, ipilimumab, and seven antibodies targeting programmed death receptor/ligand [PD/PD-L1], including atezolizumab, avelumab, durvalumab, nivolumab, cemiplimab and pembrolizumab), for the treatment of patients with multiple cancer types, mainly solid tumors. These approvals have dramatically changed the landscape of cancer treatment. However, certain cancers such as pancreatic adenocarcinoma or metastatic biliary tract cancers still do not yet benefit from existing immunotherapies. This phenomenon is multifactorial, attributed to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC)’s systemic and aggressive nature, its complex mutational landscape, its desmoplastic stroma, and a potently immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment.

[373] The poor prognosis of these two cancer types highlights the need for additional treatment approaches. The present disclosure, among other things, provides an insight that CLDN-18.2 represents a particularly useful tumor-associated antigen against which therapies may be targeted. To date, no therapy targeting CLDN-18.2 has been approved for any cancer indication. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the present disclosures provides an insight that RNA-encoded antibodies targeting CLDN-18.2 can induce ADCC and/or CDC and/or augment cytotoxic effect(s) of chemotherapy and/or other anti-cancer therapy, thus translating into prolonged progression- free and/or overall survival, e.g., relative to the individual therapies administered alone and/or to another appropriate reference.

B. Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma

[374] Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most prevalent neoplastic disease of the pancreas accounting for more than 90% of all pancreatic malignancies (Kleeff et al. 2016). To date, PDAC is the fourth most frequent cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide with a 5-year overall survival of less than 8% (Siegel et al. 2018). The incidence of PDAC is expected to rise further in the future, and projections indicate a more than 2-fold increase in the number of cases within the next 10 years, both in terms of new diagnoses as well as in terms of PDAC -related deaths in the United States and European countries (Quante et al. 2016; Rahib et al. 2014; Cancer Research UK).

[375] The efficacy and outcome of PDAC treatment are largely determined by the stage of disease at the time of diagnosis. Surgical resection followed by adjuvant chemotherapy is the only possibly curative therapy available, yet only 10-20% of PDAC patients present with resectable PDAC stages, while the residual 80-90% show locally advanced, non-resectable stages or - in the majority of cases - distant metastases (Gillen et al. 2010; Werner et al. 2013). Systemic chemotherapy is commonly employed as a first-line treatment in patients with non- resectable or borderline-resectable tumors. This encompasses nucleoside analogues, including gemcitabine and capecitabine, or the pyrimidine analogue 5-fluorouracil either in monotherapy settings or in combination with other treatment modalities, such as radiotherapy (Werner et al. 2013; Manji et al. 2017; Teague et al. 2015). FOLFIRINOX, a poly-chemotherapeutic regimen composed of folinic acid, 5-fluorouracil, irinotecan, and oxaliplatin, has been reported to nearly double median survival in the metastasized stage as compared to gemcitabine alone (Conroy et al. 2011), and the combination of gemcitabine and a nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel (nab- paclitaxel) has also been shown to significantly improve overall survival (Von Hoff et al. 2013). These treatments are associated with relatively high toxicity, thus often preventing their application in elderly patients and/or patients with poor performance status, however, overall quality of life was reported to increase during use (Gourgou-Bourgade et al. 2013). [376] Erlotinib, an epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor, is the only targeted therapy approved in the US, in combination with gemcitabine, for the first-line treatment of patients with locally advanced, unresectable or metastatic pancreatic cancer. The randomized controlled trial comparing erlotinib with placebo showed a 0.4-month median OS benefit and a 0.3-month median PFS benefit. The therapy described herein, targeting the CLDN-18.2+ subpopulation of PDAC, could potentially address a population with significantly high unmet medical need.

C. Biliary Tract Cancers

[377] Biliary tracts cancers constitute epithelial malignancies of the biliary tree and include the following: gallbladder cancer, ampulla of Vater cancer, (the extra-hepatic and intra- hepatic bile ducts). Historically, the term encompasses extra hepatic and intra hepatic bile ducts, excluding gallbladder cancer and ampulla of Vater cancer (de Groen et al. 1999).

[378] Biliary tracts cancers constitute approximately 3% of all gastrointestinal malignancies (Charbel et al. 2011) and is the most common hepatobiliary cancer after hepatocellular carcinoma (Hennedige et al. 2014). Unfortunately, the mortality rate (3.58 per 100,000) is very high. This is comparable to the incidence rate (3.64 per 100,000) in England (National Cancer Intelligence Network 2015) and equates to a 5-year survival of 2% in the metastatic setting (National Cancer Institute Seer Data 2015; Seer Data 2014). The global prevalence of BTC has risen by 22%, and 150,000 patients were diagnosed with BTC in 2015 (Vos et al. 2015). Overall, there is a large variation in incidence with certain areas depicting high prevalence e.g., Japan and South Korea). This can be accounted for by liver fluke (Opisthorchis viverrini and Clonorchiasis sinensis) infestation in zones (north-east Thailand and China), where cholangiocarcinoma is more common (Parkin et al. 1991; Kahn et al. 2008). Areas with high prevalence of cholelithiasis correspond to a high prevalence of gallbladder cancer, such as India and Chile (Randi et al. 2009; Khan et al. 1999; Kirstein and Vogel. 2016). Geographical regions where the above mentioned risk factors are uncommon have fewer cases of BTC (Kahn et al. 1999).

[379] Apart from the risk factors mentioned above, primary sclerosing cholangitis, primary biliary cirrhosis, cirrhosis due to other causes, hepatitis C and congenital malformations such as choledochal cysts and multiple biliary papillomatosis are also associated with an increased risk of developing BTC (Kahn et al. 2008; Lee et al. 2004; Chapman 1999). In addition, patients with germline mutations resulting in Lynch syndrome and BRCA1 and BRCA2 (breast cancer gene 1 and 2) genetic aberrations are also predisposed to BTC. There is a lifetime risk of 2% of developing BTC with Lynch syndrome and a relative risk of 4.97% of developing cholangiocarcinoma in carriers of BRCA2 (Golan et al. 2017; Shigeyasu et al. 2014

[380] Treatments for BTC are stratified according to the stage of the disease, where surgery remains the mainstay of cure in early stages, although this represents a small minority of patients (10-40%) (Cidon 2016). For the first-line treatment of advanced disease, the Phase 3 trial ABC-02 confirmed the superiority of the combination of gemcitabine and cisplatin over single-agent gemcitabine. Reported median OS was 11.7 months vs 8.1 months, respectively (hazard ratio [HR] 0.64; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.52-0.80; p < 0.001) (Valle et al. 2010), and since then this has become a global standard of care for late-stage BTC. Although the modest survival benefit gained from this regimen has not yet been surpassed in a randomized Phase 3 trial, the combination of gemcitabine with an oral fluoropyrimidine S-l, in a Phase 3 trial, reported a median OS of 15.1 months for the gemcitabine and S-l arm vs 13.4 months in the gemcitabine/cisplatin arm (HR 0.95; 90% Cl 0.78-1.15; p = 0.046 for non-inferiority) (Morizane et al. 2018). This regimen may be considered as an alternative treatment for patients where comorbidities restrict the use of platinum agents. A Phase 2 trial evaluating the combination of gemcitabine, cisplatin and nab-paclitaxel in the first-line setting in patients with advanced BTC has reported a superior median PFS than that associated historically with the standard gemcitabine/ cisplatin regimen (11.4 months versus 8.0 months) in the preliminary results with a median OS of 19.2 months. This trial (NCT02392637) was ongoing in 2019 (Shroff et al. 2017; Shroff et al. 2018).

VII. Patient populations

[381] Technologies provided herein can be useful for treatment of diseases or conditions associated with elevated expression and/or activity of CLDN-18.2. In some embodiments, technologies provided herein can be useful for treatment of CLDN-18.2 positive solid tumors. In some embodiments, CLDN-18.2 positive solid tumors are determined by immunohistochemical analysis with a staining intensity score of 2 or higher in accordance with the practice of skilled pathologists. [382] The present disclosure, among other things, recognizes that pancreatic cancers and biliary cancers typically have high expression of CLDN-18.2. Accordingly, in some embodiments, technologies provided herein can be useful for treatment of pancreatic cancers. For example, in some embodiments, technologies provided herein can be useful for treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). In some embodiments, technologies provided herein can be useful for treatment of biliary cancers.

]383] In some embodiments, technologies provided herein can be useful for treatment of gastroesophageal cancer that are determined to be CLDN-18.2 positive, e.g., by immunohistochemical analysis. In some embodiments, technologies provided herein can be useful for treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that are determined to be CLDN- 18.2 positive, e.g., by immunohistochemical analysis.

[384] In some embodiments, technologies provided herein can be useful for treatment of patients e.g., adult patients) with CLDN-18.2+ solid tumors that are metastatic. In some embodiments, technologies provided herein can be useful for treatment of patients (e.g., adult patients) with CLDN-18.2+ solid tumors that are unresectable, e.g., in some embodiments where surgical resection is likely to result in severe morbidity. In some embodiments, technologies provided herein can be useful for treatment of patients (e.g., adult patients) with CLDN-18.2+ solid tumors that are locally advanced. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, cancer in such patients may have progressed following treatment or such cancer patients may have no satisfactory alternative therapy.

[385] In some embodiments, technologies provided herein can be useful for treatment of adult patients with locally advanced, unresectable or metastatic CLDN-18.2+ pancreatic cancer. In some embodiments, technologies provided herein can be useful for treatment of adult patients with locally advanced, unresectable or metastatic CLDN-18.2+ biliary tract cancer. In some embodiments, patients who are receiving a treatment described herein may have received other cancer therapy, e.g., but not limited to chemotherapy.

[386] In some embodiments, a subject suffering from a CLDN-18.2 positive solid tumor may have received a pre-treatment sufficient to increase CLDN-18.2 level/activity such that his/her solid tumor is characterized as a CLDN-18.2-positive solid tumor (e.g., ones described herein). For example, in some embodiments, such a cancer patient may have received chemotherapy that is expected or predicted to elevate expression and/or activity of CLDN-18.2, or may result or have resulted in expression and/or activity of CLDN-18.2. For example, in some embodiments, such chemotherapy may be expected or predicted to elevate expression and/or activity of CLDN-18.2, or may result or have resulted in expression and/or activity of CLDN-18 by at least 50% or more, including, e.g., at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or higher, as compared to expression and/or activity of CLDN-18.2 in the absence of such chemotherapy. In some embodiments, such chemotherapy may be expected or predicted to elevate expression and/or activity of CLDN-18.2, or may result or have resulted in expression and/or activity of CLDN-18 by at least 2-fold or more, including, e.g., at least 2.5-fold, at least 3- fold, at least 3.5-fold, at least 4-fold, at least 4.5-fold, at least 5-fold, at least 5.5-fold, at least 6- fold, at least 7-fold, at least 8-fold, at least 9-fold, at least 10-fold, or higher, as compared to expression and/or activity of CLDN-18.2 in the absence of such chemotherapy. Examples of such chemotherapeutic agents include, but are not limited to nab-paclitaxel, gemcitabine, cisplatin, and/or FOLFIRINOX.

1387] In some embodiments, a cancer patient who meets one or more of the diseasespecific inclusion criteria as described in Example 16 are amenable to treatment described herein (e.g., receiving a provided pharmaceutical composition as monotherapy or as part of a combination therapy). In some embodiments, such a cancer patient that is administered a treatment described herein may further meets one or more of the other inclusive criteria as described in Example 16.

[388] In some embodiments, a cancer patient who meets one or more of the diseasespecific inclusion criteria as described in Example 16 are amenable to treatment described herein (e.g., receiving a provided pharmaceutical composition as monotherapy or as part of a combination therapy). In some embodiments, such a cancer patient that is administered a treatment described herein may further meets one or more of the other inclusive criteria as described in Example 16.

[389] In some embodiments, a cancer patient whose tumor does not express CLDN-18.2 or is determined to be not CLDN-18.2 positive (e.g., in accordance with the present disclosure described herein) is not administered a treatment described herein.

[390] In some embodiments, a cancer patient who has a CLDN-18.2 positive tumor but meets one or more of the exclusion criteria as described in Example 17 is not administered a treatment described herein. VIII. Treatment (e.g., dosing regimens)

1391] In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein can be taken up by target cells for production of an encoded CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent at therapeutically relevant plasma concentrations. In some embodiments, such pharmaceutical compositions described herein can deliver an encoded CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent at a plasma concentration that is sufficient to induce antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) against target cells (e.g., tumor cells).

[392] Accordingly, another aspect of the present disclosure relates to methods of using pharmaceutical compositions described herein. For example, one aspect provided herein is a method comprising administering a provided pharmaceutical composition to a subject suffering from a CLDN-18.2-positive solid tumor. In some embodiments, a provided pharmaceutical composition is administered by intravenous injection or infusion. Examples of a CLDN-18.2- positive solid tumor include but are not limited to a biliary tract tumor, a gastric tumor, a gastroesophageal tumor, an ovarian tumor, a pancreatic tumor, and a tumor that expresses or exhibits a level of a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide above a threshold level (e.g., a CLDN-18.2 level as observed in normal tissues), for example, in some embodiments by at least 50% or more, including, e.g., at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or higher, or in some embodiments by at least 2-fold or more, including, e.g., at least 2.5-fold, at least 3-fold, at least 3.5-fold, at least 4-fold, at least 4.5-fold, at least 5-fold, at least 5.5-fold, at least 6-fold, at least 7-fold, at least 8-fold, at least 9-fold, at least 10-fold, or higher.

[393] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to certain improvement in a method of delivering a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent for cancer treatment in a subject, which method comprises administering to a cancer subject a provided pharmaceutical composition. In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein may achieve one or more improvements such as effective administration with reduced incidence (e.g., frequency and/or severity) of TEAEs, and/or with improved relationship between efficacy level and TEAE level (e.g., improved therapeutic window) relative to those observed when a corresponding (e.g., encoded) protein (e.g., antibody) agent itself is administered. In particular, the present disclosure teaches that such improvements in particular may be achieved by delivering IMAB362 via administration of RNA(s) (e.g., ssRNA(s) such as mRNA(s))) encoding it.

[394] Dosing schedule'. Those skilled in the art are aware that cancer therapeutics often administered in dosing cycles. In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein are administered in one or more dosing cycles.

[395] In some embodiments, one dosing cycle is at least 3 or more days (including, e.g., at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 11, at least 12, at least 13, at least 14, at least 15, at least 16, at least 17, at least 18, at least 19, at least 20, at least 21, at least 22, at least 23, at least 24, at least 25, at least 26, at least 27, at least 28, at least 29, at least 30 days. In some embodiments, one dosing cycle is at least 21 days.

[396] In some embodiments, one dosing cycle may involve multiple doses, e.g., according to a pattern such as, for example, a dose may be administered daily within a cycle, or a dose may be administered every 2 days, every 3 days, every 4 days, every 5 days, every 6 days, every 7 days within a cycle.

[397] In some embodiments, multiple cycles may be administered. For example, in some embodiments, at least 2 cycles (including, e.g., at least 3 cycles, at least 4 cycles, at least 5 cycles, at least 6 cycles, at least 7 cycles, at least 8 cycles, at least 9 cycles, at least 10 cycles, or more) can be administered. In some embodiments, the number of dosing cycles to be administered may vary with types of treatment (e.g., monotherapy vs. combination therapy). In some embodiments, at least 3-8 dosing cycles may be administered.

[398] In some embodiments, there may be a “rest period” between cycles; in some embodiments, there may be no rest period between cycles. In some embodiments, there may be sometimes a rest period and sometimes no rest period between cycles.

[399] In some embodiments, a rest period may have a length within a range of several days to several months. For example, in some embodiments, a rest period may have a length of at least 3 days or more, including, e.g., at least 4 days, at least 5 days, at least 6 days, at least 7 days, at least 8 days, at least 9 days, at least 10 days, at least 11 days, at least 12 days, at least 13 days, at least 14 days or more. In some embodiments, a rest period may have a length of at least

1 week or more, including, e.g., at least 2 weeks, at least 3 weeks, at least 4 weeks, or more.

[400] In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein, for example, for use in monotherapy, can be administered in at least three cycles, wherein in some embodiments each cycle is 21 days. In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein, for example, for use in combination therapy, can be administered in at least eight cycles, wherein in some embodiments each cycle is 21 days.

[401] In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition provided herein can be administered on Day 1 of each 3-week dosing cycle (21 days/Q3W). In some embodiments, a cancer patient suffering from a CLDN-18.2+ solid tumor can receive a maximum of three cycles of treatment. In some embodiments, a cancer patient suffering from a CLDN-18.2+ solid tumor can receive a maximum of eight cycles.

[402] Dose: Dosage of pharmaceutical compositions described herein may vary with a number of factors including, e.g., but not limited to body weight of a subject to be treated, cancer types and/or cancer stages, and/or monotherapy or combination therapy. In some embodiments, a dosing cycle involves administration of a set number and/or pattern of doses. For example, in some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein is administered at least one dose per dosing cycle, including, e.g., at least two doses per dosing cycle, at least three doses per dosing cycle, at least four doses per dosing cycle, or more.

[403] In some embodiments, a dosing cycle involves administration of a set cumulative dose, e.g., over a particular period of time, and optionally via multiple doses, which may be administered, for example, at set interval(s) and/or according to a set pattern. In some embodiments, a set cumulative dose may be administered via multiple doses at set intervals such that there is at least some temporal overlap in biological and/or pharmacokinetics effects generated by such multiple doses on a target cell or on a subject being treated. In some embodiments, a set cumulative dose may be administered via multiple doses at set intervals such that biological and/or pharmacokinetics effects generated by such multiple doses on a target cell or on a subject being treated may be additive. By way of example only, in some embodiments, a set cumulative dose of X mg may be administered via two doses with each dose of X/2 mg, wherein such two doses are administered sufficiently close in time such that biological and/or pharmacokinetics effects generated by each X/2-mg dose on a target cell or on a subject being treated may be additive.

[404] In some embodiments, each dose or a cumulative dose (e.g., for intravenous administration) is administered at a level such that a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent expressed from provided RNA(s) is expected to achieve level (e.g., plasma level and/or tissue level) that is high enough to trigger antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity against target cells (e.g., cancer cells) throughout a dosing cycle. For IMAB362, the dose-response correlation for ADCC is clinically well characterized and efficient lysis of CLDN-18.2+ cells through ADCC with an EC95 of 0.3-28 μg/mL has been reported (Sahin et al. 2018). Thus, in some embodiments, each dose or a cumulative dose (e.g., for intravenous administration) is administered in an amount that confers a plasma concentration of about 0.3-28 pg/'mL of a CLDN- 18.2 -targeting antibody agent encoded by RNA(s) (e.g., ones described herein).

[405] In some embodiments, each dose or a cumulative dose (e.g., for intravenous administration) is administered at a level such that a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent expressed from provided RNA(s) is expected to achieve level (e.g., plasma level and/or tissue level) comparable to the therapeutically relevant level (e.g., plasma level and/or tissue level) observed with administration of IMAB362. In some embodiments, each dose or a cumulative dose (e.g., for intravenous administration) is administered at a level such that a CLDN-18.2- targeting antibody agent expressed from provided RNA(s) is expected to achieve level (e.g., plasma level and/or tissue level) above about 0.05- 3 μg/mL; in some embodiments, above about 0.1-10 μg/mL; in some embodiments above about 0.2-15 μg/mL; in some embodiments, above about 0.3-30 μg/mL; in some embodiments, above about 0.3-28 μg/mL. In some embodiments, each dose or a cumulative dose (e.g., for intravenous administration) is administered at a level such that a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent expressed from provided RNA(s) is expected to achieve Chough level (e.g., plasma level and/or tissue level) above about 5 μg/mL; in some embodiments above about 10 μg/mL; in some embodiments above about 15 μg/mL.

[406] In some embodiments, each dose or a cumulative dose (e.g., for intravenous administration) is administered to deliver one or more RNAs described herein (e.g., mRNA) encoding a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent at a level expected to achieve level (e.g., plasma level and/or tissue level) of such an antibody above about 0.1 μg/mL; in some embodiments, above about 0.2 μg/mL, 0.3 μg/mL, 0.4 μg/mL, 0.5 μg/mL, 0.6 μg/mL, 0.7 μg/mL, 0.8 μg/mL, 0.9 μg/mL, 1 μg/mL, 1.5 μg/mL, 2 μg/mL, 5 μg/mL, 8 μg/mL, 10 μg/mL, 15 μg/mL, 20 μg/mL, 25 μg/mL, or have a range up to and above what is observed with IMAB362 antibody administration.

[407] Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the present disclosure provides an insight that AUC of IMAB362 may not accurately elucidate a concentration that is pharmacologically active over a dosing cycle (e.g., over a 21 -day dosing cycle) when applied to an mRNA encoded antibody. In some embodiments, AUC is monitored or measured at least once. In some embodiments, AUC is not monitored or measured. Regardless, in many embodiments, a dosing amount and/or frequency may be independent of AUC of IMAB362.

[408] Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the present disclosure, among other things, provides an insight that reaching the C _ma x reported for IMAB362 may not be necessary and may increase the risk of toxicities induced by pharmaceutical compositions described herein and the respective antibody agent expressed therefrom. For example, in some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein can have an improved pharmacokinetics profile that keeps a biological active dose of the antibody over a prolonged period of time due to continued expression from the RNA. Accordingly, in some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein may be dosed at a level such that a RiboMab targeting CLDN-18.2 that is expressed from provided RNA(s) is expected to achieve level (e.g., plasma level and/or tissue level) below C _ma x reported for IMAB362. In some embodiments, a dosing amount and/or frequency may be independent of Cmax reported for IMAB362.

[409] In some embodiments, each dose or a cumulative dose of a pharmaceutical composition described herein (e.g., for intravenous administration) may comprise one or more RNAs encoding a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent (whether encoded by a single RNA or two or more RNAs) in an amount within a range of 0.1 mg RNA/kg to 5 mg RNA/kg body weight of a subject to be administered. In some embodiments, each dose or a cumulative dose may comprise RNA(s) (e.g., ones described herein) in an amount of 0.1 mg RNA/kg, 0.15 mg RNA/kg, 0.2 mg RNA/kg, 0.225 mg RNA/kg, 0.25 mg RNA/kg, 0.3 mg RNA/kg, 0.35 mg RNA/kg, 0.4 mg RNA/kg, 0.45 mg RNA/kg, 0.5 mg RNA/kg, 0.55 mg RNA/kg, 0.6 mg RNA/kg, 0.65 mg RNA/kg, 0.7 mg RNA/kg, 0.75 mg RNA/kg, 0.80 mg RNA/kg, 0.85 mg RNA/kg, 0.9 mg RNA/kg, 0.95 mg RNA/kg, 1.0 mg RNA/kg, 1.25 mg RNA/kg, 1.5 mg RNA/kg, 1.75 mg RNA/kg, 2.0 mg RNA/kg, 2.25 mg RNA/kg, 2.5 mg RNA/kg, 2.75 mg RNA/kg, 3.0 mg RNA/kg, 3.25 mg RNA/kg, 3.5 mg RNA/kg, 4 mg RNA/kg, 5 mg RNA/kg, or higher. In some embodiments, each dose or a cumulative dose may comprise RNA(s) (e.g., ones described herein) in an amount of 1 .5 mg RNA/kg. In some embodiments, each dose or a cumulative dose may comprise RNA(s) (e.g., ones described herein) in an amount of 5 mg RNA/kg. 1410] In some embodiments, each dose or a cumulative dose of a provided pharmaceutical composition (e.g. , for intravenous administration) is administered to deliver a dose of 0.15 mg RNA/kg, which in some embodiments may correspond to approximately 7 μg/mL CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent at Cmax. Figure 14 shows the dose-exposure correlation of RNA drug substance encoding CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent in cynomolgus monkey at tmax (48 hours). As will be appreciated by a skilled artisan, assuming that LNP-transfection efficacy and mRNA translation is comparable between cynomolgus monkey and humans (Coelho et al. 2013), in some embodiments, each dose or a cumulative dose of a provided pharmaceutical composition (e.g., for intravenous administration) may be administered to deliver an appropriate dose corresponding to desirable plasma level of CLDN- 18.2-targeting antibody agent encoded by RNA(s) as shown in Figure 14.

[411] In some embodiments, dosing may be adjusted based on response of a subject receiving the therapy. For example, in some embodiments, dosing may involve administration of a higher dose followed later by administration of a lower dose if one or more parameters for safety pharmacology assessment (e.g., as described in Example 5) indicates that the prior dose may not satisfy the medical safety requirement according to a physician. In some embodiments, dose escalation may be performed at one or more of the levels shown in Table 13 of Example 8; in some embodiments, dose escalation may involve administration of at least one lower dose from Table 13 followed later by administration of at least one higher dose from Table 13. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the present disclosure, among other things, provides an insight that a pharmaceutically guided dose escalation (PGDE) method may be applied to determine an appropriate dose of pharmaceutical compositions described herein. An exemplary dose escalation study is provided in Example 8.

[412] Also provided herein is also a method of determining a dosing regimen of a pharmaceutical composition targeting CLDN-18.2. For example, in some embodiments, such a method comprises steps of: (A) administering a pharmaceutical composition (e.g., ones described herein) to a subject suffering from a CLDN-18.2 positive solid tumor under a pre-determined dosing regimen; (B) monitoring or measuring tumor size of the subject periodically over a period of time; (C) evaluating the dosing regimen based on the tumor size measurement(s). For example, a dose and/or dosage frequency can be increased if reduction in tumor size after the administration of a pharmaceutical composition (e.g., ones described herein) is not therapeutically relevant; or a dose and/or dosage frequency can be decreased if reduction in tumor size after the administration of a pharmaceutical composition (e.g. , ones described herein) is therapeutically relevant, but adverse effect (e.g., toxicity effect) is shown in the subject. If reduction in tumor size after the administration of a pharmaceutical composition (e.g. , ones described herein) is therapeutically relevant, and no adverse effect (e.g., toxicity effect) is shown in the subject, no changes is made to a dosage regimen.

[413] In some embodiments, such a method of determining a dosing regimen of a pharmaceutical composition targeting CLDN-18.2 may be performed in a group of animal subjects (e.g., mammalian non-human subjects) each a bearing a huma CLDN-18.2 positive xenograft tumor. In some such embodiments, a dose and/or dosage frequency can be increased if less than 30% of the animal subjects exhibit reduction in tumor size after the administration of a pharmaceutical composition (e.g., ones described herein) and/or extent of reduction in tumor size exhibited by the animal subjects is not therapeutically relevant; or a dose and/or dosage frequency can be decreased if reduction in tumor size after the administration of a pharmaceutical composition (e.g., ones described herein) is therapeutically relevant, but significant adverse effect (e.g., toxicity effect) is shown in at least 30% of the animal subjects. If reduction in tumor size after the administration of a pharmaceutical composition (e.g. , ones described herein) is therapeutically relevant, and no significant adverse effect (e.g., toxicity effect) is shown in the animal subjects, no changes is made to a dosage regimen.

[414] Although the dosing regimens (e.g., dosing schedule and/or doses) provided herein are principally suitable for administration to humans, it will be understood by the skilled artisan that dose equivalents can be determined for administration to animals of all sorts. The ordinarily skilled veterinary pharmacologist can design and/or perform such determination with merely ordinary, if any, experimentation.

[415] In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein can be administered patients with CLDN-18.2+ solid tumors as monotherapy.

[416] Combination therapy: The present disclosure, among other things, provides an insight that the capability of pharmaceutical compositions targeting CLDN-18.2 as described herein to induce antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and/or complementdependent cytotoxicity (CDC) against target cells (e.g., tumor cells) while leveraging immune system of recipient subjects can augment cytotoxic effect(s) of chemotherapy and/or other anticancer therapy. In some embodiments, such a combination therapy may prolong progression- free and/or overall survival, e.g., relative to individual therapies administered alone and/or to another appropriate reference. Accordingly, in some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein can be administered in combination with other anti-cancer agents in patients with CLDN- 18.2+ solid tumors.

[417] Without wishing to be bound by a particular theory, the present disclosure observes that certain chemotherapeutic agents, for example such as gemcitabine, oxaliplatin, and 5 -fluorouracil were shown to upregulate existing CLDN-18.2 expression levels in pancreatic cancer cell lines; moreover, these agents were not observed to increase de novo expression in CLDN- 18.2-negative cell lines. See, e.g., Tureci et al. (2019) “Characterization ofZolbetuximab in pancreatic cancer models" In Oncoimmunology 8 (1), pp. el 523096.

[418] The present disclosure, among other things, provides an insight that CLDN- 18.2- targeted therapy as described herein may be particularly useful and/or effective when administered to tumor(s) (e.g., tumor cells, subjects in whom such tumor(s) and/or tumor cell(s) are suspected and/or have been detected, etc.) characterized by (e.g., that have been determined to display and/or that are expected or predicted to display) elevated expression and/or activity of CLDN-18.2 expression in tumor cells (e.g., as may result or have resulted from exposure to one or more chemotherapeutic agents). Indeed, among other things, the present disclosure teaches that provided CLDN-18.2-targeted therapy (e.g., administration of an RNA and, more particularly an mRNA encoding a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent) as described herein may provide synergistic therapeutic when administered in combination with (e.g., to a subject who has received and/or is receiving or has otherwise been exposed to) one or more CDLN-18.2- enhancing agents (e.g., one or more certain chemotherapeutic agents). Accordingly, in some embodiments, CLDN-18.2-targeted therapy as described herein can be useful in combination with other anti-cancer agents that are expected to and/or have been demonstrated to up-regulate CLDN-18.2 expression and/or activity in tumor cells. For example, in some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions described herein may be combined with an already efficient but not durable cytotoxic treatment.

[419] In some embodiments, a provided pharmaceutical composition may be administered as part of combination therapy comprising such a pharmaceutical composition and a chemotherapeutic agent. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a provided phannaceutical composition may be administered to a subject suffering from a CLDN-18.2+ solid tumor who has received a chemotherapeutic agent. In some embodiments, a provided pharmaceutical composition may be co-administered with a chemotherapeutic agent to a subject suffering from a CLDN-18.2+ solid tumor. In some embodiments, a provided pharmaceutical composition and a chemotherapeutic agent may be administered concurrently or sequentially. For example, in some embodiments, a first dose of chemotherapeutic agent may be administered after (e.g., at least four hours after) administration of a provided pharmaceutical composition. In some embodiments, a chemotherapeutic agent and a provided phannaceutical composition are concomitantly administered.

1420] In some embodiments where a chemotherapeutic agent is expected to elevate expression and/or activity of CLDN-18.2 in a cancer subject, such a chemotherapeutic agent can be administered prior to administration of a provided pharmaceutical composition. In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein can be administered at a time such that a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent expressed from RNA(s) described herein reaches its therapeutically relevant plasma concentration (e.g., as described herein) during elevation in expression and/or activity of CLDN-18.2 in response to administration of such a chemotherapeutic agent. In some embodiments, a phannaceutical composition described herein can be administered at a time such that a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent expressed from RNA(s) described herein reaches its therapeutically relevant plasma concentration (e.g., as described herein) while expression and/or activity of CLDN-18.2 is elevated in response to such a chemotherapeutic agent by at least 50% or more, including, e.g., at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or higher, as compared to expression and/or activity of CLDN-18.2 in the absence of such a chemotherapeutic agent. In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein can be administered at a time such that a CLDN- 18.2-targeting antibody agent expressed from RNA(s) described herein reaches its therapeutically relevant plasma concentration (e.g., as described herein) while expression and/or activity of CLDN-18.2 is elevated in response to such a chemotherapeutic agent by at least 1.5- fold, at least 2-fold or more, including, e.g., at least 2.5-fold, at least 3-fold, at least 3.5-fold, at least 4-fold, at least 4.5-fold, at least 5-fold, at least 5.5-fold, at least 6-fold, at least 7-fold, at least 8-fold, at least 9-fold, at least 10-fold, or higher, as compared to expression and/or activity of CLDN-18.2 in the absence of such a chemotherapeutic agent. Examples of such chemotherapeutic agents include, but are not limited to nab-paclitaxel, gemcitabine, cisplatin, and/or FOLFIRINOX.

[421] Combination treatment with an anti-cancer therapy comprising gemcitabine: In some embodiments, an administered therapy comprising a provided pharmaceutical composition may be co-administered or overlap with an anti-cancer therapy comprising gemcitabine.

Gemcitabine kills cells undergoing deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) synthesis and blocks the progression of cells through the Gl/S-phase boundary. Gemcitabine is metabolized by nucleoside kinases to diphosphate and triphosphate (dCTP) nucleosides. Gemcitabine diphosphate inhibits ribonucleotide reductase, an enzyme responsible for catalyzing the reactions that generate deoxynucleoside triphosphates for DNA synthesis, resulting in reductions in deoxynucleotide concentrations, including dCTP. Gemcitabine triphosphate competes with dCTP for incorporation into DNA. The reduction in the intracellular concentration of dCTP by the action of the diphosphate enhances the incorporation of gemcitabine triphosphate into DNA (self-potentiation). After the gemcitabine nucleotide is incorporated into DNA, only one additional nucleotide is added to the growing DNA strands, which eventually results in the initiation of apoptotic cell death.

[422] Combination treatment with an anti-cancer therapy comprising nab-paclitaxel.' In some embodiments, an administered therapy comprising a provided pharmaceutical composition may be co-administered or overlap with an anti-cancer therapy comprising nab- paclitaxel. Nab-paclitaxel is an albumin-bound form of paclitaxel with a mean particle size of approximately 130 nm. It is a microtubule inhibitor that promotes the assembly of microtubules from tubulin dimers and stabilizes microtubules by preventing depolymerization. This stability results in the inhibition of the normal dynamic reorganization of the microtubule network that is essential for vital interphase and mitotic cellular functions. Paclitaxel induces abnormal arrays or ‘bundles’ of microtubules throughout the cell cycle and multiple asters of microtubules during mitosis.

[423] Combination treatment with an anti-cancer therapy comprising cisplatin.' In some embodiments, an administered therapy comprising a provided pharmaceutical composition may be co-administered or overlap with an anti-cancer therapy comprising cisplatin. Cisplatin is a heavy metal complex containing a central atom of platinum surrounded by two chloride atoms and two ammonia molecules in the cis position. Without wishing to be bound by theory, cisplatin is believed to kill cancer cells by binding to DNA and interfering with its repair mechanism, eventually leading to cell death.

[424] Combination treatment with an anti-cancer therapy comprising FOLFIRINOX'.

In some embodiments, an administered therapy comprising a provided pharmaceutical composition may be co-administered or overlap with an anti-cancer therapy comprising FOLFIRINOX, which is a combination of cancer drugs that includes: FOL-folinic acid (also called leucovorin, calcium folinate, or FA); F- fluorouracil (also called 5FU); Irin-irinotecan; Ox- oxaliplatin.

1425] Leucovorin is a mixture of the diastereoisomers of the 5-fonnyl derivative of tetrahydrofolic acid. The biologically active compound of the mixture is the (-)-l-isomer, known as citrovorum factor or (-)-folinic acid. Leucovorin does not require reduction by the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase in order to participate in reactions utilizing folates as a source of “one- carbon” moieties. 1-Leucovorin (1-5-formyltetrahydro folate) is rapidly metabolized (via 5, 10- methenyltetrahydro folate then 5, 10-methylenetetrahydro folate) to 1,5 methyltetrahydrofolate. 1,5-Methyltetrahydrofolate can in turn be metabolized via other pathways back to 5,10- methylenetetrahydrofolate, which is converted to 5-methyltetrahydrofolate by an irreversible, enzyme catalyzed reduction using the cofactors flavin adenine dinucleotide and nicotinamideadenine dinucleotide phosphate.

1426] Leucovorin can enhance the therapeutic and toxic effects of fluoropyrimidines used in cancer therapy, such as 5 -fluorouracil. Concurrent administration of leucovorin does not appear to alter the plasma PK of 5-fluorouracil. 5-Fluorouracil is metabolized to fluorodeoxyuridylic acid, which binds to and inhibits the enzyme thymidylate synthase (an enzyme important in DNA repair and replication). Leucovorin is readily converted to another reduced folate, 5,10-methylenetetrahydro folate, which acts to stabilize the binding of fluorodeoxyridylic acid to thymidylate synthase and thereby enhances the inhibition of this enzyme.

[427] Fluorouracil is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor that interferes with the synthesis of DNA and to a lesser extent inhibits the formation of RNA; these affect rapidly growing cells and may lead to cell death. Fluorouracil is converted to three main active metabolites: 5-fluoro- 2'-deoxyuridine-5'-monophosphate, 5-fluorouridine-5' triphosphate and 5-fluoro-2'- deoxyuridine-5 '-triphosphate. These metabolites have several effects including the inhibition of thymidylate synthase by 5-fluoro-2'-deoxyuridine-5'-monophosphate, incorporation of 5- fluorouridine-5' triphosphate into RNA and incorporation of 5-fluoro-2'-deoxyuridine-5'- triphosphate into DNA.

[428] Irinotecan is a derivative of camptothecin. Camptothecins interact specifically with the enzyme topoisomerase I, which relieves torsional strain in DNA by inducing reversible single-strand breaks. Irinotecan and its active metabolite SN-38 bind to the topoisomerase I- DNA complex and prevent religation of these single-strand breaks. Current research suggests that the cytotoxicity of irinotecan is due to double-strand DNA damage produced during DNA synthesis when replication enzymes interact with the ternary complex formed by topoisomerase I, DNA, and either irinotecan or SN-38. Mammalian cells cannot efficiently repair these doublestrand breaks.

[429] Oxaliplatin undergoes non-enzymatic conversion in physiologic solutions to active derivatives via displacement of the labile oxalate ligand. Several transient reactive species are formed, including monoaquo and diaquo DACH platinum, which covalently bind with macromolecules. Both inter and intrastrand plasma tumor DNA crosslinks are formed. Crosslinks are formed between the N7 positions of two adjacent guanines, adjacent adenine- guanines, and guanines separated by an intervening nucleotide. These crosslinks inhibit DNA replication and transcription. Cytotoxicity is cell-cycle nonspecific.

[430] In some embodiments, technologies provided herein are useful for administration to a subject suffering from a CLDN-18.2 positive pancreatic tumor. In some embodiments, such a subject may be receiving a provided pharmaceutical composition as a monotherapy or as part of a combination therapy comprising such a provided pharmaceutical composition and a chemotherapeutic agent indicated for treatment of pancreatic tumor. In some embodiments, such a chemotherapeutic agent may be or comprise FOLFIRINOX, which is a combination of cancer drugs including: folinic acid (FOL), fluorouracil (F), irinotecan (IRIN), and oxalipatin (OX). In some embodiments, such a chemotherapeutic agent may be or comprise gemcitabine and/or paclitaxel (e.g., nab-paclitaxel). In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein can be administered in combination with gemcitabine according to the approved dose and treatment schedule of gemicitabine (e.g., Gemzar) as monotherapy for treatment of pancreatic cancer as described in Example 18. In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein can be administered in combination with gemcitabine at a lower dose (e.g., less than 10%, less than 20%, less than 30%, or more) and/or under a less aggressive treatment schedule (e.g., every 10 days, or biweekly, etc.) than the approved dose and treatment schedule for gemicitabine (e.g., Gemzar) as monotherapy for treatment of pancreatic cancer as described above. In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition described herein can be administered in combination with gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel according to the approved dose and treatment schedule of nab-paclitaxel/gemcitabine combination treatment as described in Example 18. In some embodiments, a provided pharmaceutical composition described herein can be administered in combination with nab-paclitaxel and gemcitabine, at least one of which is at a lower dose (e.g., less than 10%, less than 20%, less than 30%, or more) and/or under a less aggressive treatment schedule (e.g., every 10 days, or biweekly, etc.) than the approved dose and treatment schedule of nab-paclitaxel/gemcitabine combination treatment as described in Example 18. In some embodiments, a provided pharmaceutical composition described herein can be administered in combination with nab-paclitaxel and gemcitabine following the dosing schedule as described in Table 17 (Example 18).

[431] In some embodiments, technologies provided herein are useful for administration to a subject suffering from a CLDN-18.2 positive biliary tract tumor. In some embodiments, such a subject may be receiving a provided composition as a monotherapy or as part of a combination therapy comprising such a provided pharmaceutical composition and a chemotherapeutic agent indicated for treatment of biliary tract tumor. In some embodiments, such a chemotherapeutic agent may be or comprise gemcitabine and/or cisplatin.

[432] Efficacy monitoring'. In some embodiments, patients receiving a provided treatment may be monitored periodically over the dosing regimen to assess efficacy of the administered treatment. For example, in some embodiments, efficacy of an administered treatment may be assessed by on-treatment imaging periodically, e.g., every 4 weeks, every 5 weeks, every 6 weeks, every 7 weeks, every 8 weeks, or longer. In some embodiments, one or more efficacy assessments as described in Example 19 may be performed.

[433] In some embodiments, one or more of various pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics markers (e.g., as described in Example 6), which might act as anti-tumor and safety indicators of activity of provided pharmaceutical compositions (e.g., as monotherapy or as combination therapy, e.g., with standard of care, can be evaluated. EXEMPLIFICATION

Example 1: In vitro characterization of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent expressed from one or more exemplary mRNAs

[434] The present Example demonstrates in vitro characterization of an exemplary CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent expressed from one or more mRNAs encoding the same upon introduction into cells.

[435] Assembly of full IgG after RNA transfection of hepatocytes. This Example shows translation, assembly and secretion of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent expressed from one or more exemplary mRNAs (e.g., ones described herein) (hereinafter “CLDN-18.2- targeting RiboMab”) after cellular uptake of the respective mRNAs in vitro. In this Example, two different expression systems, primary human hepatocytes to resemble liver targeting in vitro and Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO-K1) were utilized. Lipofections of cells were performed with compositions comprising mRNAs encoding CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agents described herein. Cell supernatants containing secreted CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab were harvested, for example, after 48 hours and analyzed, for example, via Western Blot and ELISA. Fully assembled CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab (e.g., CLDN-18.2-targeting IgG antibody) was generated in both expression systems (Figure 1).

[436] Binding specificity of an exemplary CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab. To determine the target specificity of an exemplary CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent expressed from one or more exemplary mRNAs (e.g., ones described herein) to a CLDN-18.2 polypeptide, flow cytometric binding assays were conducted using cell culture supernatant containing CLDN- 18.2-targeting RiboMab expressed in CHO-K1 cells and CLDN-18.2+ HEK293 transfectants as target cells. To assess cross reactivity of CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab to the closely related splice variant CLDN18.1, binding of CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab to CLDN18.1 transfected cells was tested. CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab expressed from one or more exemplary mRNAs (e.g., ones described herein) bound preferentially to a tight junction polypeptide CLDN-18.2 polypeptide relative to a CLDN18.1 polypeptide. In some embodiments, the binding of CLDN- 18.2-targeting RiboMab expressed from one or more exemplary mRNAs (e.g., ones described herein) was restricted or specific to CLDN-18.2 polypeptide and showed concentration dependency, comparable to the reference protein IMAB362 (or known as Zolbetuximab or Claudiximab) (Figure 2).

[437] Mode of action analysis: Antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) in vitro. The bioactivity of CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab, expressed by CH0-K1 cells following in vitro translation from one or more mRNAs encoding the same (e.g., ones described herein), was assessed by analyzing antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC). Exemplary ADCC assays were conducted, for example, using the CLDN-18.2+ gastric carcinoma transfectants (e.g., NUG-C4) and the target-negative breast cancer cell line (e.g., MDA-MB-231) to assess specific lysis. For exemplary CDC assays, the CLDN-18.2+ transfectants (e.g., CH0-K1) and a CLDN- 18.2-negative (e.g., CHO-K1) cell line were utilized. To simulate in vivo conditions, human PBMCs from three different healthy donors were used as effector cells in ADCC assays in an effector to target (E:T) ratio of 30:1 and human serum (e.g., commercially available human serum) was used as a source of complement in CDC assays. CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab efficiently mediated a target specific and dose-dependent cellular cytotoxicity comparable to the reference protein IMAB362 in ADCC [Figure 3, Panel A; EC50 10-127 ng/mL (CLDN-18.2- targeting RiboMab), 14-265 ng/mL (IMAB362)] and CDC assays (Figure 3, Panel B).

Example 2: Characterization of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent expressed in vivo from one or more exemplary mRNAs in rodents

[438] The bioactivity of CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab expressed in vivo from exemplary mRNAs (e.g., ones described herein) was assessed in ex vivo ADCC assays. ADCC assays were conducted using CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab or lMAB362-containing plasma of Balb/cJRj mice sampled 24 hours post 5 ^th IV dosing of 1 pg (-0.04 mg/kg), 3 pg (-0.10 mg/kg), 10 pg (-0.40 mg/kg) and 30 pg (-1.20 mg/kg) pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one or more mRNAs encoding a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody agent (“CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition”) or 80 pg (-3.20 mg/kg) IMAB362. Plasma of untreated mice spiked with IMAB362 served as assay reference. The CLDN- 18.2+ gastric carcinoma transfectants (e.g., NUG-C4) were used as target and human PBMCs from healthy donors as effector cells. Target and effector cells were incubated for 48 hours in an E:T (effector to target) ratio of 30:1 with 1% of CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab-containing plasma and the ADCC was determined in a luciferase-based assay. CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab expressed in rodents exhibited a high and dose-dependent target cell lysis similar to 80 pg (-3.20 mg/kg) of the reference protein IMAB362 (Figure 4, Panel A). No unspecific lysis was seen on the target-negative breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 used as control indicating the target specificity of CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab (Figure 4, Panel B). The results show that CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab expressed in rodents can mediate high ADCC of targeted tumor cells.

Example 3: Characterization of a CLDN-18,2-targeting antibody agent expressed in vivo from one or more exemplary mRNAs in non-human primates

[439] To determine the bioactivity of CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab in a phylogenetic and physiological closely related organism to humans, ADCC studies with CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab-containing serum of non-human primates (NHP), e.g., Cynomolgus monkey, sampled 24 hours and 168 hours post IV dosing of 0.1 mg/kg, 0.4 mg/kg and 1.6 mg/kg CLDN-18.2- targeting RNA composition were conducted. ADCC assays were performed as described in Example 2. CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab expressed in NHP exhibited a high and dosedependent target cell lysis (Figure 5, Panel A). Low effector, donor-dependent unspecific lysis was seen on the target-negative breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 (Figure 5, Panel B). Serum of monkey No. 14, the animal with the highest determined CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab concentration (232 μg/mL), collected 48 hours after the 3 ^rd injection of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition, was subjected to a luciferase-based ADCC assay in a 10-point dilution row. Purified IMAB362 served as assay reference protein. CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab expressed by NHP mediated a high and specific lysis of NUG-C4 target cells (Figure 5, Panel C) with an EC50 of 10 ng/mL (66 pM). These results show that CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab expressed by NHP mediates can mediate potent and target specific ADCC.

Example 4: Intravenously administered CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition mediates tumor growth inhibition in vivo

[440] To determine the anti-tumor activity of intravenously (IV) administered CLDN- 18.2-targeting RNA composition in a CLDN-18.2+ human gastric carcinoma xenograft tumor model, Hsd.’Athymic Nude-Foxnl nu/nu mice were subcutaneously inoculated with 5 x 10 ⁶ CLDN-18.2+ NCI-N87 transfectants. Mice with established tumors (mean > 30mm ³ ) received six single IV bolus injections of 3 gg, 10 pg and 30 gg CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition, 30 gg control mRNA encoding luciferase, saline or 800 gg of the reference protein IMAB362 on test days 15, 22, 29, 36, 43 and 50. Significant tumor growth inhibition compared to the controls was observed after the 3 ^rd dosing cycle with 30 pg CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition. The anti-tumor activity of 30 gg CLDN- 18.2-targeting RNA composition was comparable to the tumor growth retardation gained with 800 gg of the reference protein IMAB362 (Figure 6).

Example 5: Safety pharmacology assessment of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA compositions

[441] GLP compliant assessment of CNS and respiratory safety was conducted in mice after repetitive dosing. Potential effects of CLDN- 18.2-targeting RNA compositions on the blood pressure of non-human primates (NHPs) after repetitive dosing were assessed in a non-GLP PK/tolerability study. All studies were designed in an ICH S7A-compliant manner (Table 4).

Table 4: Overview of exemplary safety pharmacology studies.

[442] Central nervous and respiratory system safety. GLP-compliant sub-chronic toxicity study was conducted to assess the effect of repeat intravenous bolus injection of CLDN- 18.2-targeting RNA composition in male and female mice. The study included safety pharmacology assessments of satellite animals, as indicated below (Table 5).

Table 5: Neurological and respiratory safety assessment within the GLP sub-chronic repeated dose toxicity study ^a Dose levels expressed as the total mRNA dose

[443] To assess the respiratory safety of a CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition, plethysmography was conducted pre-dose, four hours and 24 hours post-dose for the second and fourth injection. Respiratory rate, tidal volume, minute volume, peak inspiratory flow, peak expiratory flow, inspiratory time, expiratory time and airway resistance index were assessed every 10 minutes from 10 to 60 minutes (pre- and post-dose) and every 30 minutes from 1 to 4 hours (post-dose) for the measurement after test item administration to give a mean value for each time period.

[444] Animals underwent neurological testing pre-dose and 48 hours after the first and fourth injection. Awareness, mood, motor activity, CNS excitation, posture, muscle tone, reflexes and autonomic body temperature, hind leg splay, grip strength and locomotor activity were tested.

[445] Statistically-significant changes (p < 0.05) were seen for one parameter: male mice receiving 100 pg CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition/animal showed a decrease in grip strength 48 hours after the first dose (p < 0.01); female mice receiving 100 pg CLDN-18.2- targeting RNA composition/animal showed a similar decrease in griping strength after the first injection (p < 0.05).

[446] Gastric safety. Without wishing to be bound by theory, CLDN-18.2 target is expressed in healthy tissues of stomach in human and murine (Tiireci el al. 2011). Macroscopical and histopathological assessment of the stomach was included in the GLP-compliant repeated- dose toxicity study in mouse (See Example 7).

[447] Cardiovascular safety. In a PK/Tolerability study blood pressure measurements were performed before first dosing and 24 h after the third dosing of the animals (study designed is described in Example 7).

[448] The peripheral arterial systolic and diastolic blood pressure as well as the resulting mean blood pressure were within the normal physiological limits in the test item-treated animals.

Example 6: Pharmacokinetics assessment of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA compositions

[449] The pharmacokinetics of the lipid nanoparticles (LNP) formulated RNAs can be split into two phases: after intravenous injection, the LNPs are distributed systemically in the circulation and deliver the RNA to the intended target organ, the liver. Secondly, liver cells are transfected by the LNP formulation, translate the RNA and secrete the encoded proteins. (450] The pharmacokinetic profile of CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab was characterized in three different species after single dose administration [in mice (Figure 7) and in rats (Figure 8) and repeated dose administration [in mice (Figure 9) and in non-human primates (Figure 10)].

Table 6: Summary of exemplary studies on pharmacokinetics.

451] To assess the PK of CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab translated from CLDN-18.2- targeting RNA composition, a single dose PK study in Balb/c JRj mice was performed.

Treatment groups received an IV bolus injection of 1 pg (-0.040 mg/kg), 3 μg (-0.10 mg/kg), 10 pg (-0.40 mg/kg) or 30 pg (-1.20 mg/kg) CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition and 40 pg (-1.60 mg/kg) IMAB362 reference protein as internal control. Plasma was sampled 6, 24, 96, 168, 264, 336 and 504 hours post administration and CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab concentrations were assessed via ELISA. CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab concentrations displayed a CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition concentration-dependent expression with a peak at 24 hours post administration and a gradual decrease thereafter. Peak concentrations of approximately 450 μg/mL were reached with the highest dose and CLDN- 18.2 -targeting RiboMab concentrations were detectable up to 504 hours post administration (Figure 7). The results show that CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab is expressed in a dose-dependent manner in mice after single dosing.

[452] To assess the PK of CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab translated from CLDN- 18.2- targeting RNA composition in a larger rodent organism a single dose study was performed in RjHamWister rats. Treatment groups received an IV bolus dose of either 0.04 mg/kg,

0.10 mg/kg, 0.40 mg/kg or 1.20 mg/kg CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition and 3.60 mg/kg IMAB362 reference protein. Plasma was sampled 2, 6, 8, 10, 22, 24, 27, 30, 48, 72, 96, 168, 216, 264 and 336 hours post administration and CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab concentrations were determined via ELISA. CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab revealed a CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition concentration-dependent expression with a peak at 24 hours post administration and a gradual decrease thereafter. Peak concentrations, similar to mice (Figure 7), of approximately 450 μg/mL were reached with the highest dose and CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab concentrations were detectable until the termination of the study 336 hours post administration in all dose groups (Figure 8). The results show that CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab expression level in rats can be similar to mice.

[453] A repetitive dose PK study was performed in Balb/cJRj mice to assess whether CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab concentrations were maintained by weekly administration of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition. Treatment groups received five IV bolus doses of 1 pg (-0.04 mg/kg), 3 pg (-0.10 mg/kg), 10 pg (-0.40 mg/kg) or 30 pg (-1.20 mg/kg) CLDN-18.2- targeting RNA composition and 80 pg (-3.20 mg/kg) IMAB362 reference protein as internal control at a weekly interval. Plasma was sampled 24 hours pre- and 24 hours post-dosing (C _max ) respectively and concentrations of CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab were determined via ELISA. Repeated administration of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition resulted in sustained CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab levels with a peak concentration of up to -1000 μg/mL (30 pg CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition) without loss in translation (Figure 9). The results show that sustained CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab concentrations can be reached by weekly administration of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition in mice.

[454] A repetitive dose PK study of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition was conducted in NHP as a phylogenetic and physiological closely related organism to humans (see Table 7 for description of an exemplary study design).

Table 7: Exemplary study design of the PK/Tolerability study in NHPs

^a Dose levels expressed as the total mRNA dose

[455] Treatment groups received three IV bolus injections of either 0.1 mg/kg,

0.4 mg/kg or 1.6 mg/kg at weekly intervals. As controls, saline or empty LNPs were administered likewise. Serum was sampled 6, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 168 hours post 1 ^st and 3 ^rd dosing and 48, 72 and 168 hours post 2 ^nd dosing as well as 264, 336 and 504 hours post 3 ^rd dosing. Concentrations of CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab were analyzed via ELISA. CLDN-18.2- targeting RiboMab displayed a CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition dose-dependent expression with a peak between 48-72 hours post administration and a gradual decrease thereafter. Peak serum concentrations of 231.7 μg/mL were reached with the highest dose 48- 72 hours post 3 ^rd administration of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition and CLDN-18.2- targeting RiboMab was detectable until the termination of the study 840 hours post 1 ^st dosing (Figure 10). The results show that weekly administration of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition can result in sustainable CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab expression in NHP.

[456] Distribution: Biodistribution of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition was studied in mice after a single IV injection. Messenger RNA and lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) in murine tissues were quantified via digital droplet PCR (mRNA) or liquid scintillation spectrometry (radiolabeled LNP), respectively. Organ targeting and expression of LNPs encapsulating luciferase-encoding mRNA were studied via bioluminescence imaging.

[457] mRNA distribution: A single dose of 100 pg CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition/animal was administered to Balb/c mice (3/sex/time point) IV and blood and tissues (spleen, lungs, liver, kidneys, heart and brain) were sampled 0.083 (5 minutes), 0.5, 6, 24, 72 and 168 hours post administration.

Table 8: Exemplary design of mRNA biodistribution study ^a Dose levels expressed as the total mRNA dose

[458] LNP distribution: Biodistribution of lipid nanoparticles (LNP) was assessed with modified mRNA encoding firefly luciferase formulated with lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to assess liver targeting and kinetics of in vivo translated mRNA. Following IV administration, the luciferase protein showed a time-dependent translation with high bioluminescence signals mainly located in the liver (Figure 11). The results show that LNP encapsulated mRNA can be targeted to and expressed in the liver.

[459] The tissue distribution profile of LNP of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition was investigated in CD-I mice (4/sex/time point) after a single IV bolus injection at 1 mg/kg.

[ ³ H]- CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition was used for this analysis and the particles contained a non- exchangeable, non-metabolizable LNP marker, [ ³ H]-cholesteryl hexadecyl ether ([ ³ H]-CHE). An exemplary study design is depicted in Table 9 below.

Table 9: Exemplary study design of LNP biodistribution study a Dose levels expressed as the total mRNA dose b At bold time points tissues were collected in addition to blood and plasma

[460] Mice were euthanized, blood and plasma collected at 0.083 (5 min), 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8 and 24 hours post-dose. Tissues were only sampled at 0.25, 1, 4 and 24 hours post-dose. Radioactivity in all samples was determined by standard liquid scintillation counting (LSC) and the resulting values used to calculate total and relative lipid concentrations.

[461] [ ³ H]-CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition exhibited bi-phasic kinetics in blood and plasma in mice, with a rapid initial decline in blood/plasma concentrations, followed by a slower elimination phase. The distribution of [ ³ H]- CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition into tissues was rapid, with peak levels observed in all tissues by 0.5-2 hours post-dose. The principal tissues/organs of distribution for [ ³ H]- CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition were the liver and the spleen (-70-74% and ~0.8-1.2% of the injected dose present in the liver and the spleen, respectively, at 4 hours after injection) and minimal distribution was observed into other tissues. A summary of the calculated total lipid concentrations (i.e., of all 4 administered lipids) and calculated % of injected dose of [ ³ H]- CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition in various tissues is shown in Table 10.

Table 10: Tissue levels of total lipids (from CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition) at 4 hours after IV bolus injection in CD-I mice [462] Metabolism and excretion: Messenger RNA, including pseudouridine modified mRNA is generally sensitive to degradation by cellular RNases and subjected to nucleic acid metabolism. Nucleotide metabolism occurs continuously within the cell with the nucleoside being degraded to waste products and excreted or recycled for nucleotide synthesis.

[463] In some embodiments of a CLDN- 18.2 -targeting RNA composition described herein, such a composition comprises a plurality of lipids, some of which can be naturally occurring (e.g., in some embodiments neutral lipids such as, e.g., cholesterol and DSPC). A skilled artisan reading the present disclosure may expect that metabolism and excretion of naturally occurring lipids can be similar to that of endogenous lipids. A skilled artisan reading the present disclosure will also understand that the metabolism and excretion of other lipids within a CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition (e.g., a conjugated lipid and a cationic lipid) can be characterized using methods known in the art.

[464] In some embodiments, the structure of an expressed CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab is based on an IgGl antibody. In some such embodiments, its metabolism can be similar to that of endogenous IgGl molecules. Exemplary metabolism includes, but is not limited to, degradation to small peptides and amino acids.

Example 7: Toxicology assessment of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA compositions

[465] The toxicology assessment of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA compositions can comprise in vitro studies using human blood components and in vivo studies in mouse and cynomolgus monkey. Drug product haematocompatibility with human blood can be assessed in vitro, while toxicities mediated by the CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA compositions (RNA and LNP) as well as by the translated CLDN-18.2-targeting RiboMab (protein) can be detected in the selected in vivo models. A summary of certain features assessed in non-clinical studies is given in Table 11 below.

Table 11: Exemplary non-clinical safety and toxicology studies of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA compositions and the encoded antibody.

[466] In some embodiments, relevant species for assessment of the antibody (CLDN- 18.2-targeting RiboMab) mediated toxicity are mouse and cynomolgus monkey, due to the highly conserved protein sequence and equal expression pattern of the CLDN- 18.2 target in these species (Tiireci et al. 2011).

[467] Single-dose toxicology. A single-dose toxicity study was conducted in male and female CD-I mice to: i) characterize the potential toxicity of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA compositions, ii) compare the toxicity of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA compositions with the respective control item (e.g., empty lipid nanoparticles), and iii) assess the reversibility, progression and/or potential delayed effects of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA compositions after a 4-week observation period (termination on Day 29).

[468] Mice received a single IV dose of a CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition (at a total mRNA dose level of 1 , 2, or 4 mg/kg) or control item (e.g. , empty nanoparticles or saline control) on Day 1 by IV administration. Animals were euthanized on Day 3 (main animals) and Day 29 (recovery/delayed findings). Study endpoints included mortality, clinical observations, body weight changes, clinical chemistry, necropsy observations, organ weights, and histopathology (liver, spleen and stomach).

[469] A single IV dose of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition at 1 , 2 and 4 mg/kg, or Empty LNP, was generally well-tolerated in male and female CD-I mice. There was no mortality during the 28-day observation period. Minor findings were noted on Day 3 regarding liver parameter and spleen weight increase. Minor findings in microscopic assessment of liver and spleen were considered non-adverse. All findings were resolved after the recovery period at Day 29.

[470] Repeated-dose toxicology. A 21 -day GLP-compliant repeated-dose toxicity study was conducted in Balb/c mice with weekly intravenous bolus administrations of CLDN-18.2- targeting RNA composition followed by a 2-week recovery period (see Table 12 for an exemplary study design). Study readouts include, but are not limited to, clinical signs of intolerance (e.g., ptosis, piloerection, reduced motility and/or cold to touch), mortality, body weight and food consumption, local tolerance, hematology, clinical chemistry (e.g., globulin, albumin, cholesterol, creatinine, total protein, blood glucose, alkaline phosphatase (aP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and aspartate aminotransferase (ALAP), and glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH) blood levels), urine analysis, ophthalmology and auditory system, macroscopic postmortem findings, organ weights, bone marrow, histopathology, and cytokines (e.g., IL-6, TNF-a, IFN-α, IFN-γ, IL- 1 , IL-2, IL- 10, and/or IL-12p70).

Table 12: Exemplary design of the GLP-compliant repeated-dose toxicity study

471] Immunotoxicity: Haematocompatibility of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA compositions was determined in vitro in human serum and blood, testing for drug product mediated complement activation and cytokine release, respectively. Furthermore, immunotoxicity in vivo was assessed as part of the repeated-dose toxicity study in mice and a pharmacokinetic study in cynomolgus monkey. All studies were designed in accordance with the ICH S8 guideline (Immunotoxicity studies for human pharmaceuticals).

[472] Preliminary results of the toxicity study show that IL-6 and TNF- a were transiently elevated 6h post administration in the empty LNP control group and in both dose groups (30 and 100 pg CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition/animal), while IFN-a and IFN-y were transiently elevated in both dose groups. Plasma levels returned to baseline by 48h post administration. No elevation of IL- 1 [3, IL-2, IL-10 or IL-12p70 was observed in any of the groups.

[473] In the PK/Tolerability study in cynomolgus monkey as described in Example 6, no cytokine elevation was observed in any of the groups.

[474] In vitro complement activation of human serum. The potential of CLDN-18.2- targeting RNA composition to activate human complement in vitro was evaluated through incubation in normal human serum with drug product concentrations selected based on plasma Cmax levels at doses associated with toxicity for similar lipid nanoparticle products (e.g., containing siRNA) administered to humans (Fitzgerald et al. 2014; Coelho et al. 2013;

Tabemero et al. 2013; Patisaran FDA approval 2017). Complement activation was assessed by evaluating levels of complement split products, C3a, C4a, C5a, using a multiplex cytometric bead array, and the terminal complement complex, SC5b-9, using an enzyme immunoassay.

[475] The in vitro incubation of CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition with normal human serum complement resulted in no increases in complement split products or terminal complement complex when compared with negative controls, while expected activation was induced by the positive control. In summary, CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition did not activate human complement in vitro under the conditions tested.

[476] Whole blood cytokine release. In some embodiments, a CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition described herein may be administered parenterally. In such embodiments, a CLDN-18.2 -targeting RNA composition may be in contact with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) during circulation in the blood. One of ordinary skill in the art reading the present disclosure will appreciate that interaction between the drug product and blood components may lead to an induction of cytokine secretion. Therefore, in vitro tolerability of an exemplary CLDN-18.2-targeting RNA composition was investigated using human whole blood. For example, secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., but not limited to IFN-α, IFN-γ, IL- 1 , IL 2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-12p70, IP- 10, and/or TNF-a) was evaluated after incubation of a dilution range representative of anticipated concentrations in human blood. No test item-related induction of cytokine secretion was detectable in this assay and the in vitro tolerability could be shown.

Example 8: Exemplary dosing (e.g. dose escalation)

[477] In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions provided herein can be administered to patients with CLDN-18.2 positive cancer as monotherapy and/or in combination with other anti-cancer therapies.

[478] In some embodiments, administration involves one or more cycles. In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions provided herein can be administered in at least 3-8 cycles.

[479] In some embodiments, a dosing regimen, and in particular a monotherapy dosing regimen, may be or comprise dosing every 21 days (Q3W).

[480] In some embodiments, dose escalation may be performed. In some such embodiments, dosing may be performed at one or more of the levels shown in Table 13 below; in some embodiments, dose escalation may involve administration of at least one lower dose from Table 13 followed later by administration of at least one higher dose from Table 13.

Table 13: Exemplary Dosing

¹ As presented in Table 13, a “dose” refers to total RNA dose. ² Dose Increment presented in Table 13 relative to the dose immediately above, beginning with the indicated exemplary starting dose

[481] In some embodiments, additional or alternative doses levels may be evaluated, for example, including, e.g., dose levels at 0.2, 0.225, 0.25, 0.35, 0.4, 0.45, 0.5, 0.55, 0.65, 0.7, 0.75, 0.80, 0.85, 0.9, 0.95, 1.25, 1.75, 2.25, 2.75, 3.25, 3.5, and 4 mg/kg.

[482] Efficacy of a treatment can be assessed by on-treatment imaging, for example, at Week 6 (+7 days), every 6 weeks (±7 days) for 24 weeks, and every 12 weeks (±7 days) thereafter.

Example 9: Approved therapies for treatment of certain cancers

[483] Approved therapies are available for certain cancers associated with CLDN-18.2 expression. For example, erlotinib, an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor is the only targeted therapy approved in the US in combination with gemcitabine for the first-line treatment of patients with locally advanced, unresectable or metastatic pancreatic cancer. However, a randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing erlotinib versus placebo showed a 0.4- month median overall survival (OS) benefit and 0.3-month median progression-free survival (PFS) benefit.

[484] In some embodiments, the recommended daily dose of erlotinib (e.g., erlotinib hydrochloride) for treatment of pancreatic cancer is about 109 mg taken at least one hour before or two hours after the ingestion of food, in combination with gemcitabine. In some embodiments, the recommended dose of gemcitabine (Gemzar) for treatment of pancreatic cancer is 1000 mg/m ² over 30 minutes once weekly for the first 7 weeks, then one week rest, the one once weekly for 3 weeks of each 28-day cycle.

Example 10: Exemplary adverse events

[485] In some embodiments, subjects to whom a pharmaceutical composition as described herein is administered may be monitored over a period of treatment regimen for one or more indicators of a potential adverse event. For example, in some embodiments, subjects may be monitored for one or more hematologic toxicities (e.g., presence of neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and/or anemia, etc.) and/or non-hematologic toxicities (e.g., elevation of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and/or bilirubin, etc.). Example 11: Exemplary assessments and/or criteria for single-stranded RNAs described herein

[486] In some embodiments, one or more assessments as described herein may be utilized during manufacture, or other preparation or use of single stranded RNAs (e.g., as a release test).

[487] In some embodiments, one or more quality control parameters may be assessed to determine whether single-stranded RNAs described herein meet or exceed acceptance criteria (e.g., for subsequent formulation and/or release for distribution). In some embodiments, such quality control parameters may include, but are not limited to RNA integrity, RNA concentration, residual DNA template and/or residual dsRNA. Methods for assessing RNA quality are known in the art; for example, one of skill in the art will recognize that in some embodiments, one or more analytical tests as described in Table 14 can be used for RNA quality assessment.

[488] In some embodiments, a batch of single stranded RNAs may be assessed for the following features listed in Table 14 to determine next action step(s). For example, a batch of single stranded RNAs can be designated for one or more further steps of manufacturing and/or formulation and/or distribution if RNA quality assessment indicates that such a batch of single stranded RNAs meet or exceed the acceptance criteria listed in Table 14. Otherwise, an alternative action can be taken (e.g. , discarding the batch) if such a batch of single stranded RNAs does not meet or exceed the acceptance criteria.

[489] In some embodiments, a batch of single stranded RNAs with exemplary assessment results as shown in Table 14 can be utilized for one or more further steps of manufacturing and/or formulation and/or distribution.

Table 14: Exemplary tests and specifications for individual RNAs.

Example 12: Exemplary assessments and/or criteria for compositions containing two or more RNAs

[490] In some embodiments, one or more assessments as described herein may be utilized during manufacture, or other preparation or use of a drug substance (e.g., as a release test).

[491] In some embodiments, a batch of a first single stranded RNA encoding a heavy chain of CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody and a batch of a second single stranded RNA encoding a light chain of CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody are assessed for one or more features as described in Example 11. In some such embodiments, batches of a first and a second ssRNA that both meet or exceed acceptance criteria as listed in Table 14 are then mixed together, for example, in a molar ratio of about 1.5:1 to about 1 : 1.5, to form an RNA drug substance. In some embodiments, such an RNA drug substance may be assessed for one or more quality control parameters (e.g., for release and/or for further manufacturing) including, e.g., but are not limited to physical appearance, RNA length, identity (as RNA), integrity, sequence, and/or concentration, pH, osmolality, RNA ratio (e.g., ratio of a HC RNA to a LC RNA), potency, bacterial endotoxins, bioburden, and combinations thereof. Such quality control parameters can be assessed by one or more of certain analytical methods known in the art, such as, e.g., visual inspection, gel electrophoresis (e.g., agarose gel electrophoresis, capillary gel electrophoresis), enzymatic degradation, sequencing, UV absorption spectrophotometry. PCR methods, bacterial endotoxin testing (e.g., limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) testing).

Example 13: Exemplary RNA product formulation

[492] In some embodiments, an exemplary RNA product formulation is a sterile RNA- lipid nanoparticle (RNA-LNP) dispersion in aqueous buffer, for example, for intravenous administration. For example, in some embodiments, such an RNA product formulation may be filled at about 0.8 to about 1.2 mg/mL, to a 5.0 mL nominal fill volume. In some embodiments, each vial may be intended for single use. In some embodiments, an RNA product formulation e.g., as described herein) may be stored frozen at -80 to -60°C.

[493] In some embodiments, such an exemplary RNA product formulation may comprise two or more distinct RNAs each encoding a portion of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody (e.g., an RNA encoding a heavy chain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody and an RNA encoding a light chain of a CLDN-18.2-targeting antibody), at least one cationic lipid, at least one conjugated lipid, at least one neutral lipid, and an aqueous buffer comprising one or more salts. In some embodiments, a polymer-conjugated lipid (e.g., a PEG-conjugated lipid such as for example in some embodiments, a PEG-conjugated lipid is or comprises 2-[(polyethylene glycol)-2000]-N,N-ditetradecylacetamide) may be present in about 1-2.5 mol% of the total lipids. In some embodiments, a cationic lipid (e.g., in some embodiments, a cationic lipid being or comprising ((3-hydroxypropyl)azanediyl)bis(nonane-9,l-diyl) bis(2-butyloctanoate)) may be present in about 35-65 mol% of the total lipids. In some embodiments, a neutral lipid (e.g., in some embodiments, a neutral lipid being or comprising l ,2-Distearoyl-sn-glycero-3- phosphocholine and/or synthetic cholesterol) may be present in about 35-65 mol% of the total lipids. In some embodiments, the composition of an exemplary RNA production formulation may be characterized as shown in Table 15.

Table 15. Quantitative composition of an exemplary RNA product formulation

^[1] Cationic lipid A = ((3-hydroxypropyl)azanediyl)bis(nonane-9,l-diyl) bis(2-butyloctanoate)

^,21 PEG-conjugated lipid A = 2-[(polyethylene glycol)-2000]-.'V,-V-ditetradecylacetamide

^[3) DSPC = l ,2-Distearoyl-jn-glycero-3-phosphocholine q.s. = quantum satis (as much as may suffice)

Example 14: Exemplary lipid excipients in an RNA/LNP drug product formulation described herein

[494] Materials used in a manufacturing process of the drug product can be purchased from qualified vendors, quarantined, sampled, identified, tested and released. Tests of the excipients are conducted according to pre-determined specifications or according to Ph.

Eur./USP.

[495] In some embodiments, an RNA/LNP drug product formulation comprises four lipid excipients shown in Table 16, which provides further information on the lipid excipients. All excipients are supplied as GMP -grade material.

Table 16: Lipid excipients in an exemplary RNA/LNP drug product described herein

Cationic Lipid A: ((3-HydroxypropyI)azanediyl)bis(nonane-9,l-diyl)bis(2-butylo ctanoate) |496] In some embodiments, the amino lipid ((3-Hydroxypropyl)azanediyl)bis(nonane- 9,l-diyl)bis(2-butyloctanoate)is a functional cationic lipid component of an RNA/LNP drug product formulation described herein. It was designed to facilitate biodegradation, metabolism and clearance in vivo. The amino lipid contains a titratable tertiary amino head group linked via ester bonds to two saturated alkyl chains which, when incorporated in LNP, confer distinct physicochemical properties that regulate particle formation, cellular uptake, fusogenicity and/or endosomal release of the RNA. The ester bonds can be hydrolyzed easily to facilitate fast degradation and excretion via renal pathways. The amino lipid has an apparent pKa of approximately 6.25, resulting in an essentially fully positively charged molecule at pH 5. During the manufacturing process, introduction of an aqueous RNA solution to an ethanolic lipid mixture containing the amino lipid at pH 4.0 leads to an electrostatic interaction between the negatively charged RNA backbone and the positively charged cationic lipid. This electrostatic interaction leads to particle formation coincident with efficient encapsulation of RNA drug substance. After RNA encapsulation, adjustment of the pH of the medium surrounding the resulting LNP to 7.4 results in neutralization of the surface charge of the LNP. When all other variables are held constant, charge-neutral particles display longer in vivo circulation lifetimes and better delivery to hepatocytes compared to charged particles, which are rapidly cleared by the reticuloendothelial system. Upon endosomal uptake, the low pH of the endosome renders the LNP fusogenic and allows the release of the RNA into the cytosol of the target cell.

PEG-Conjugated Lipid A: 2- [(Polyethylene glycol)-2000]-N,N-ditetradecylacetamide

[497] In some embodiments, an RNA/LNP drug product formulation described herein contains a functional lipid excipient, 2-[(Polyethylene glycol)-2000]-N,N-ditetradecyIacetamide. This PEGylated lipid is structurally similar to other clinically approved PEGylated lipids, where safety was demonstrated in clinical trials. The primary function of a PEGylated lipid is to sterically stabilize the particle by forming a protective hydrophilic layer that shields the hydrophobic lipid layer. Moreover, a PEGylated lipid reduces the association with serum proteins and the resulting uptake by the reticuloendothelial system when the particles are administered in vivo. PEG lipids are known to affect cellular uptake, a prerequisite to endosomal localization and payload delivery. It has been found that the pharmacology of encapsulated nucleic acid can be controlled in a predictable manner by modulating the alkyl chain length of the PEG-lipid anchor. In some embodiments, such PEGylated lipid was selected for an RNA/LNP drug product formulation to provide optimum delivery of RNA to the liver. In some embodiments, such selection was also based on reasonable solubility characteristics and its molecular weight to effectively perform the function of a steric barrier. Such a PEGylated lipid does not show appreciable surfactant or permeability enhancing or disturbing effects on biological membranes. Furthermore, the PEG in such a PEGylated lipid is linked to the diacyl lipid anchors with a biodegradable amide bond, facilitating fast degradation and excretion. In the vial, the particles retain a full complement of a PEGylated lipid. In the blood compartment, such a PEGylated lipid dissociates from the particle over time, revealing a more fusogenic particle that is more readily taken up by cells, ultimately leading to release of the RNA payload.

Neutral Lipids: DSPC and Cholesterol [498] In some embodiments, an RNA/LNP drug product formulation comprises two or more neutral lipids. In some such embodiments, an RNA/LNP drug product formulation may comprise two or more neutral lipids, which includes DSPC and/or cholesterol. In some embodiments, such neutral lipids (e.g., DSPC and/or cholesterol) can be referred to as structural lipids with concentrations chosen to optimize LNP particle size, stability and encapsulation. For example, DSPC and cholesterol are already used in approved drug products, e.g. DSPC is used as an excipient in DaunoXome®, TOBI® Podhaler®, and Lipo-Dox®. Cholesterol is used as an excipient in Marqibo®, Doxil® and AmBisome®. Onpattro® contains both DSPC and cholesterol.

Example 15: Exemplary assessments and/or criteria for RNA/LNP drug product formulations described herein

[499] In some embodiments, one or more assessments as described herein may be utilized during manufacture, or other preparation or use of a drug product (e.g., as a release test).

[500] In some embodiments, a RNA/LNP drug product may be assessed for one or more quality control parameters (e.g., for release and/or for further processing) including, e.g., but are not limited to physical appearance, lipid identity and/or content, LNP size, LNP polydispersity, RNA encapsulation, RNA length, identity (as RNA), integrity, sequence, and/or concentration, pH, osmolality, RNA ratio (e.g., ratio of a HC RNA to a LC RNA), potency, bacterial endotoxins, bioburden, residual organic solvent, osmolality, pH, and combinations thereof. Such quality control parameters can be assessed by one or more of certain analytical methods known in the art, such as, e.g., visual inspection, gel electrophoresis (e.g., agarose gel electrophoresis, capillary gel electrophoresis), enzymatic degradation, sequencing, UV absorption spectrophotometry. RNA labeling dye, PCR methods, bacterial endotoxin testing (e.g., limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) testing), dynamic light scattering, liquid chromatography with charged aerosol detector(s), gas chromatography, and/or in vitro translation system (e.g., a rabbit reticulocyte lysate translation system and ³⁵ S-methionine).

[501] In some embodiments, a batch of an RNA/LNP drug product formulation (e.g., ones described herein) may be assessed for the quality control parameters (e.g., ones described herein) to determine next action step(s). For example, a batch of an RNA/LNP drug product formulation (e.g., ones described herein) can be designated for one or more further steps of manufacturing and/or distribution if quality assessment indicates that such a batch meets or exceeds the relevant release criteria listed. Otherwise, an alternative action can be taken (e.g., discarding the batch) if such a batch does not meet or exceed the release criteria.

Example 16: Exemplary inclusion criteria

[502] In some embodiments, cancer patients whose tumors express CLDN-18.2 can be selected for treatment with compositions and/or methods described herein. In some embodiments, cancer patients are pancreatic cancer patients. In some embodiments, cancer patients are biliary cancer patients.

[503] In some embodiments, cancer patients who meets one or more of the following disease-specific inclusion criteria are selected for treatment with compositions and/or methods described herein:

1. A CLDN-18.2-positive tumor (regardless of tumor histology) defined as > 50% of tumor cells with > 2+ CLDN-18.2 protein staining-intensity as assessed by central testing using a validated immunohistochemistry assay in formalin- fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) neoplastic tissues;

2. Availability of a FFPE tumor tissue sample for CLDN-18.2 testing. New biopsies and archival biosamples are allowed. If archival tissue samples from several points of time are available, the most recent one is preferred;

3. Histological documentation of the original primary tumor via a pathology report. a. Histologically confirmed solid tumor that is metastatic or unresectable and for which there is no available standard therapy likely to confer clinical benefit, or the patient is not a candidate for such available therapy; and optionally measurable or evaluable disease per RECIST 1.1; OR b. Histologically confirmed unresectable locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma without prior palliative chemotherapy; and optionally measurable or evaluable disease per RECIST 1.1; OR c. Histologically confirmed, unresectable locally advanced or metastatic PDAC without prior palliative chemotherapy eligible for treatment with either nab-paclitaxel + gemcitabine or FOLFIRINOX; and optionally measurable or evaluable disease per RECIST 1.1; OR d. Histologically confirmed, locally advanced or metastatic BTCs without prior palliative chemotherapy eligible for treatment with cisplatin + gemcitabine; and optionally measurable or evaluable disease per RECIST 1.1.

[504] In some embodiments, cancer patients who meets at least one of the diseasespecific inclusive criteria as discussed above and further meets at least one of the following other inclusive criteria are selected for treatment with compositions and/or methods described herein:

1. Be > 18 years of age.

2. Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 0 to 1.

3. Adequate coagulation function at screening as determined by: a. International normalized ratio (INR) or prothrombin time < 1.5 x upper limit normal (ULN; unless on therapeutic anticoagulants with values within therapeutic window). b. Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) < 1.5 x ULN (unless on therapeutic anticoagulants with values within therapeutic window).

4. Adequate hematologic function at screening as determined by: a. White blood count (WBC) > 3 x 10 ⁹ /L. b. Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) > 1.5 x 10 ⁹ /L (patient may not use Granulocytecolony stimulating factor or granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor to achieve these WBC and ANC levels in the past 7 days). c. Platelet count > 100 x 10 ⁹ /L. d. Hemoglobin > 9.0 g/dL (may not transfuse or use erythropoietin to obtain this level in the past 7 days).

5. Adequate hepatic function at screening as determined by: a. Total bilirubin < 1 .5 mg/dL (or < 2.0mg/dL for patients with known Gilbert's syndrome or liver metastasis). b. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) < 2.5 x ULN; < 3 ULN for patients with liver metastasis.

6. Adequate renal function at screening as determined by: a. Glomerular filtration rate > 45 mL/min/1.73 m ² - according to the abbreviated

Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equation:

GFR = 186 X (Screatinin- ¹ ' ^{1 54} ) X (age- ⁰ ' ²⁰³ ) (where the serum creatinine level is expressed in mg/dL; multiply it by 0.742 if the patient is female; multiply it by 1.212, if the patient is African- American (Levey et al. 1999).

7. Women of childbearing potential (WOCBP) must have a negative serum (beta-human chorionic gonadotropin) test/value at screening. Patients who are post-menopausal or permanently sterilized can be considered as not having reproductive potential.

8. Women of childbearing potential must agree not to donate eggs (ova, oocytes) for the purposes of assisted reproduction during the treatment regimen until 6 months after the last CLDN-18.2-targeting treatment described herein.

9. Men who are sexually active with WOCBP and who have not had a vasectomy must agree to use a barrier method of birth control, e.g., either condom with spermicidal foam/gel/film/cream/suppository or partner with occlusive cap (diaphragm or cervical/vault caps) with spermicidal foam/gel/film/cream/suppository during the trial and for 6 months after receiving the last dose of a CLDN-18.2-targeting treatment described herein.

10. Men must agree to not donate sperm during the treatment regimen and for 6 months after receiving the last dose of CLDN-18.2-targeting treatment described herein.

Example 17: Exemplary exclusion criteria

[505] In some embodiments, cancer patients whose tumor do not express CLDN-18.2 are not amenable to compositions and/or methods described and/or utilized herein.

[506] In some embodiments, cancer patients who (i) have recently received a cancer treatment; (ii) are concurrently receiving systemic steroid therapy; (iii) have recently had a major surgery; (iv) are suffering from active infection and being treated with an anti-infective therapy; and/or (v) are diagnosed with growing brain or leptomeningeal metastases, are not amenable to compositions and/or methods described and/or utilized herein.

[507] In some embodiments, the following cancer patients may not be recommended for a CLDN-18.2-targeting treatment described herein (e.g., administration of compositions described herein and/or treatment methods described herein). Prior and Concomitant Therapy

1. Receiving: radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or molecularly-targeted agents or tyrosine kinase inhibitors within 2 weeks or 5 half-lives (whichever is longer) of the start of a CLDN-18.2- targeting treatment described herein; immuno therapy/monoclonal antibodies within 3 weeks of the start of a CLDN-18.2-targeting treatment described herein; nitrosoureas, antibodydrug conjugates, or radioactive isotopes within 6 weeks of the start of a CLDN-18.2- targeting treatment described herein.

2. Receives concurrent systemic (oral or IV) steroid therapy > 10 mg prednisone daily or its equivalent for an underlying condition.

3. Major surgery within the 4 weeks before the first dose of a CLDN-18.2-targeting treatment described herein.

4. Ongoing or active infection requiring IV treatment with anti-infective therapy that has been administered less than 2 weeks prior to the first dose of a CLDN-18.2-targeting treatment described herein.

5. Side effects of any prior therapy or procedures for any medical condition not recovered to National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for AEs (NCI CTCAE) v.5 Grade < 1. It should be noted that peripheral neuropathy Grade < 2 is allowed; alopecia of any grade is allowed.

Medical Conditions

6. Current evidence of new or growing brain or leptomeningeal metastases during screening. Patients with known brain or leptomeningeal metastases may be eligible if they have: a. Radiotherapy, surgery or stereotactic surgery for the brain or leptomeningeal metastases. b. No neurological symptoms (excluding Grade < 2 neuropathy). c. Stable brain or leptomeningeal disease on the computer tomography (CT) or magnet resonance imaging (MRI) scan within 4 weeks before signing the informed consent. d. Not undergoing acute corticosteroid therapy or steroid taper.

It should be noted that patients with central nervous system symptoms should undergo a CT scan or MRI of the brain to exclude new or progressive brain metastases. Spinal bone metastases are allowed, unless imminent fracture with cord compression is anticipated.

7. History of seizures other than isolated febrile seizure during childhood; has a history of a cerebrovascular accident or transient ischemic attack less than 6 months before screening. 8. Effusions (pleural, pericardial, or ascites) requiring drainage.

9. History of autoimmune disease active or past including but not limited to inflammatory bowel disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, ankylosing spondylitis, scleroderma, or multiple sclerosis.

10. Active immunologic disorder requiring immunosuppression with steroids or other immunosuppressive agents (e.g., azathioprine, cyclosporine A) with the exception of patients with isolated vitiligo, resolved childhood asthma or atopic dermatitis, controlled hypoadrenalism or hypopituitarism, and euthyroid patients with a history of Grave's disease. Patients with controlled hyperthyroidism must be negative for thyroglobulin, thyroid peroxidase antibodies, and thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin prior to administration of trial treatment.

11. Known history of seropositivity for human immunodeficiency virus with CD4+ T-cell counts < 350 cells/pL and with a history of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-defining opportunistic infections.

12. Known history/positive serology for hepatitis B requiring active antiviral therapy (unless immune due to vaccination or resolved natural infection or unless passive immunization due to immunoglobulin therapy). Patients with positive serology must have hepatitis B viral load below the limit of quantification.

13. Active hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection; patients who have completed curative antiviral treatment with HCV load below the limit of quantification are allowed.

14. Known hypersensitivity to a component of a CLDN-18.2-targeting treatment described herein.

15. Another primary malignancy that has not been in remission for at least 2 years, with the exception of those with a negligible risk of metastasis or death (such as adequately treated carcinoma in situ of the cervix, basal or squamous cell skin cancer, localized prostate cancer, or ductal carcinoma in situ).

Other Comorbidities

16. Abnormal electrocardiograms that are clinically significant, such as Fridericia-corrected QT prolongation > 480 ms. 17. In the opinion of the treating practitioner, has any concurrent conditions that could pose an undue medical hazard or interfere with the interpretation of the treatment results; these conditions include, but are not limited to: a. Ongoing or active infection requiring antibiotic/antiviral/antifungal therapy. b. Concurrent congestive heart failure (New York Heart Association Functional Classification Class III or IV). c. Concurrent unstable angina. d. Concurrent cardiac arrhythmia requiring treatment (excluding asymptomatic atrial fibrillation). e. Acute coronary syndrome within the previous 6 months. f. Significant pulmonary disease (shortness of breath at rest or on mild exertion) for example due concurrent severe obstructive pulmonary disease.

18. Cognitive, psychological or psychosocial impediment that would impair the ability of the patient to receive therapy according to the protocol or adversely affect the ability of the patient to comply with the informed consent process and compliance with the protocol- required visits and procedures.

19. Pregnant or breastfeeding.

Example 18: Exemplary dosing schedule of CLDN-18.2-targeting composition described herein in combination with nab-paclitaxel and/or gemcitabine

[508] In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions provided herein can be administered to patients with CLDN-18.2 positive cancer in combination with other anti-cancer therapies. In some embodiments, administration involves one or more cycles. In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions provided herein can be administered in at least 3-8 cycles.

[509] In some embodiments, a dosing for a CLDN-18.2-targeting composition described herein may be performed at one or more of the levels shown in Table 13 above (see Example 8); in some embodiments, dosing may involve administration of at least one lower dose from Table 13 followed later by administration of at least one higher dose from Table 13.

[510] When given in combination with nab-paclitaxel and gemcitabine, in some embodiments, a CLDN- 18.2-targeting composition may be administered before the first infusion of cytotoxic therapy. For example, in some embodiments, a CLDN-18.2-targeting composition may be administered a minimum of 4 hours before the first infusion of cytotoxic therapy (e.g., nab-paclitaxel and gemcitabine). In some embodiments, a CLDN-18.2-targeting composition may be administered at Q3 W and chemotherapy will follow the approved schedule according to local guidelines. For example, in some embodiments, a combination treatment comprising a CLDN-18.2-targeting composition and nab-paclitaxel and/or gemcitabine may be administered for at least eight cycles, e.g., in some embodiments according to the schedule as shown in Table 17.

Table 17. Exemplary dosing schedule for administration of a CLDN-18.2-targeting composition and nab-paclitaxel and gemcitabine

[511] As presented in Table 17, the cycle length for CLDN-18.2-targeting treatment is defined as 21 days (q3w) and a CLDN-18.2-targeting composition is given on Day 1 of each cycle. Nab-paclitaxel and gemcitabine is given on Days 1, 8, and 15 every 28 days. Highlighted with bold “x” are shown when Day 1 administration of nab-paclitaxel/ gemcitabine matches with administration of an anti-CLDN18.1 composition.

[512] Gemcitabine alone has been used for treatment of pancreatic cancer. For example, a recommended dose of gemcitabine (e.g., Gemzar) is 1000 mg/m ² over 30 minutes intravenously. In some embodiments, a recommended treatment schedule is:

• Weeks 1-8: weekly dosing for the first 7 weeks followed by 1-week rest.

• After Week 8: weekly dosing on Days 1 , 8, and 15 of 28-day cycles.

[513] In some embodiments, a CLDN-18.2-targeting composition described herein can be administered in combination with gemcitabine according to the approved dose and treatment schedule of gemicitabine (e.g., Gemzar) as monotherapy for treatment of pancreatic cancer as described above. In some embodiments, a CLDN-18.2-targeting composition described herein can be administered in combination with gemcitabine at a lower dose (e.g., less than 10%, less than 20%, less than 30%, or more) and/or under a less aggressive treatment schedule (e.g.. every 10 days, or biweekly, etc.) than the approved dose and treatment schedule for gemicitabine (e.g. , Gemzar) as monotherapy for treatment of pancreatic cancer as described above. f514] Nab-paclitaxel is known to be used in combination with gemcitabine for treatment of metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma. For example, a recommended dose of nab-paclitaxel (Abraxane®) is 125 mg/m ² administered as an IV infusion over 30-40 minutes on Days 1, 8 and 15 of each 28-day cycle, while gemcitabine should be administered immediately after nab- paclitaxel on Days 1, 8 and 15 of each 28-day cycle.

[515] In some embodiments, a CLDN-18.2-targeting composition described herein can be administered in combination with gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel according to the approved dose and treatment schedule of nab-paclitaxel/gemcitabine combination treatment as described above. In some embodiments, a CLDN-18.2-targeting composition described herein can be administered in combination with nab-paclitaxel and gemcitabine, at least of which at a lower dose e.g., less than 10%, less than 20%, less than 30%, or more) and/or under a less aggressive treatment schedule (e.g., every 10 days, or biweekly, etc.) than the approved dose and treatment schedule of nab-paclitaxel/gemcitabine combination treatment as described above.

[516] In some embodiments, pre- and post-medications with antipyretics (e.g., acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), anti-emetics, proton-pump inhibitors and anxiolytics per drug/regulatory guidelines may be allowed. In some embodiments, patients should be properly prehydrated before administration of a CLDN- 18.2 -targeting composition described herein. In some embodiments, corticosteroids should not be used as premedication for a CLDN-18.2-targeting composition described herein.

Example 19: Exemplary efficacy assessments and/or monitoring

[517] In some embodiments, a cancer patient administered with a CLDN-18.2-targeting composition described herein as a monotherapy or in combination with an additional anti-cancer therapy may be periodically monitored for efficacy of the treatment and/or adjustment of the treatment dosage/schedule.

[518] In some embodiments, efficacy of a treatment may be assessed by computer tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging scans. In some embodiments, a MRI scan may be performed using a 3 Tesla whole body instrument. In some embodiments, when evaluating lesions for efficacy assessments, one or more of following criteria may be used: o Complete response: disappearance of all target lesions. Any pathological lymph nodes (whether target or non-target) must have reduction in short axis to < 10 mm. o Partial response: at least a 30% decrease in the sum of diameters of target lesions, taking as reference the baseline sum diameters. o Progressive disease: at least a 20% increase in the sum of diameters of target lesions, taking as reference the smallest sum on study (this includes the baseline sum if that is the smallest on study). In addition to the relative increase of 20%, the sum must also demonstrate an absolute increase of at least 5 mm. The appearance of one or more new lesions is also considered progression. o Stable disease: neither sufficient shrinkage to qualify for PR nor sufficient increase to qualify for progressive disease, taking as reference the smallest sum diameters while on study.

Example 20: HEK293T717 transfection to test in vitro production of anti-CLDN18.2

RiboMab based on different RNA-coding sequences

Different mRNA constructs encoding the anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab light chain (LC) and heavy chain (HC) were tested for RiboMab expression. The constructs all comprise the same RNA backbone (all RNA sequences in the mRNA except the coding sequences) and encode the same LC or HC, but differ in that they have different LC or HC RNA coding sequences (Optimization 1, 3 or 10). Optimization 1 corresponds to the sequences shown in SEQ ID Nos: 16 and 17, respectively. Optimization 3 and Optimization 10 are shown below:

Optimization 3, HC-encoding sequence:

AUGAGAGUGAUGGCCCCCAGAACCCUGAUCCUGCUGCUGUCUGGCGCCCUGGCCCUG ACAGAGACAUGGG CCGGAAGCCAGGUUCAGCUGCAACAGCCUGGCGCCGAACUUGUUAGACCUGGCGCCUCUG UGAAGCUGAG CUGUAAAGCCAGCGGCUACACCUUCACCAGCUACUGGAUCAACUGGGUCAAGCAGAGGCC AGGCCAGGGC CUCGAAUGGAUCGGCAAUAUCUACCCCAGCGACAGCUACACCAACUACAACCAGAAGUUC AAGGACAAGG CCACACUGACCGUGGACAAGAGCAGCAGCACAGCCUACAUGCAGCUGAGCAGCCCUACCA GCGAAGAUAG CGCCGUGUACUACUGCACCCGGUCUUGGAGAGGCAACAGCUUCGAUUAUUGGGGCCAGGG CACAACCCUG ACCGUGUCUAGCGCGUCUACAAAGGGCCCUAGCGUGUUCCCUCUGGCUCCUAGCAGCAAG UCGACAAGCG GAGGAACAGCCGCUCUGGGCUGCCUGGUCAAGGAUUACUUUCCCGAGCCUGUGACAGUGU CCUGGAACUC

UGGCGCUCUGACAAGCGGCGUGCACACAUUUCCAGCCGUGCUGCAAAGCAGCGGCCU GUACUCUCUGAGC

AGCGUGGUCACAGUGCCAAGCUCUAGCCUGGGCACCCAGACCUACAUCUGCAAUGUG AACCACAAGCCUA

GCAACACCAAGGUGGACAAGCGCGUGGAACCCAAGAGCUGCGACAAGACCCACACCU GUCCUCCAUGUCC

UGCUCCAGAACUGCUCGGAGGCCCUUCCGUGUUCCUGUUUCCUCCAAAGCCUAAGGA CACCCUGAUGAUC

AGCAGAACCCCUGAAGUGACCUGCGUGGUGGUGGAUGUGUCCCACGAGGAUCCCGAA GUGAAGUUCAAUU

GGUACGUGGACGGCGUGGAAGUGCACAACGCCAAGACCAAGCCUAGAGAGGAACAGU ACAACAGCACCUA

CAGAGUGGUGUCCGUGCUGACAGUGCUGCACCAGGAUUGGCUGAACGGCAAAGAGUA CAAGUGCAAGGUG

UCCAACAAGGCCCUGCCUGCUCCUAUCGAGAAAACCAUCAGCAAGGCCAAGGGCCAG CCUAGGGAACCCC

AGGUUUACACACUGCCUCCAAGCCGCGAGGAAAUGACCAAGAACCAGGUGUCCCUGA CCUGCCUCGUGAA

GGGCUUCUACCCUUCCGAUAUCGCCGUGGAAUGGGAGAGCAAUGGCCAGCCUGAGAA CAACUACAAGACA

ACCCCUCCUGUGCUGGACAGCGACGGCUCAUUCUUCCUGUACAGCAAGCUGACUGUG GAUAAGUCCCGGU

GGCAGCAGGGCAACGUGUUCAGCUGUUCUGUGAUGCACGAAGCCCUGCACAACCACU ACACCCAGAAAAG CCUGUCUCUGAGCCCCGGCAAG ( SEQ ID NO : 28 )

Optimization 3, LC-encoding sequence:

AUGAGAGUGAUGGCCCCCAGAACCCUGAUCCUGCUGCUGUCUGGCGCCCUGGCCCUG ACAGAGACAUGGG

CCGGAAGCGACAUUGUCAUGACUCAGAGUCCCAGUUCCUUGACAGUGACAGCUGGCG AAAAGGUCACUAU

GUCAUGCAAAAGCUCCCAGUCCCUUCUGAAUAGCGGGAAUCAGAAGAACUACCUGAC CUGGUAUCAGCAG

AAACCAGGUCAACCUCCCAAACUGCUGAUUUACUGGGCAAGCACCCGAGAAUCAGGG GUACCUGAUCGCU

UUACCGGAAGCGGAAGUGGAACGGACUUCACACUCACCAUAAGCAGCGUACAGGCCG AAGAUCUGGCCGU

GUAUUACUGCCAGAACGACUACUCUUACCCCUUUACCUUUGGUUCUGGGACGAAACU GGAGAUCAAACGU

ACGGUUGCUGCACCCUCAGUGUUCAUCUUUCCGCCUUCUGAUGAGCAACUCAAAAGU GGCACUGCAUCUG

UGGUGUGUCUGCUCAACAACUUCUAUCCAAGGGAAGCUAAGGUGCAGUGGAAAGUCG ACAAUGCCCUGCA

AAGCGGCAAUUCCCAAGAGUCAGUUACAGAACAGGAUUCCAAGGAUUCCACCUACUC UCUGAGCAGUACU

CUUACACUCUCUAAGGCCGACUAUGAGAAGCACAAGGUGUAUGCGUGUGAGGUUACC CAUCAGGGCUUGU

CAUCCCCAGUCACAAAGAGCUUCAACAGAGGCGAGUGC ( SEQ ID NO : 29 )

Optimization 10, HC-encoding sequence:

AUGAGAGUGAUGGCCCCCAGAACCCUGAUCCUGCUGCUGUCUGGCGCCCUGGCCCUG ACAGAGACAUGGG

CCGGAAGCCAGGUGCAGCUGCAGCAGCCUGGAGCCGAGCUGGUGAGACCUGGAGCCA GCGUGAAACUGAG

CUGCAAAGCCAGCGGAUACACCUUCACCAGCUACUGGAUCAAUUGGGUGAAACAGAG ACCUGGACAGGGA

CUGGAGUGGAUCGGAAAUAUCUACCCCAGCGACAGCUACACCAAUUACAAUCAGAAA UUCAAAGACAAAG CCAC C CUGACCGUGGACAAAAGCAGCAGCAC CGCCUAC AUGC AGCUGAGCAGC C C C AC CAGCGAGGACAG

CGCCGUGUACUACUGCACCAGAAGCUGGAGAGGAAACAGCUUUGAUUAUUGGGGACA GGGAACCACCCUG ACCGUGAGCAGCGCCAGCACCAAAGGACCCAGCGUGUUUCCUCUGGCCCCCAGCAGCAAG UCGACAAGCG GAGGAACAGCCGCCCUGGGAUGCCUGGUGAAAGAUUACUUUCCUGAGCCUGUGACCGUGA GCUGGAACAG

CGGAGCCCUGACCAGCGGAGUGCACACCUUUCCUGCCGUGCUGCAGAGCAGCGGACU GUACAGCCUGAGC AGCGUGGUGACCGUGCCCAGCAGCAGCCUGGGAACCCAGACCUACAUCUGCAAUGUGAAU CACAAACCCA

GCAACACCAAAGUGGACAAAAGAGUGGAGCCCAAAAGCUGUGACAAAACCCACACCU GCCCUCCCUGCCC CGCCCCCGAGCUGCUGGGAGGACCCAGCGUGUUUCUGUUUCCUCCCAAACCCAAAGACAC CCUGAUGAUC

AGCAGAACCCCCGAGGUGACCUGUGUGGUGGUGGAUGUGAGCCACGAGGACCCCGAG GUGAAAUUCAAUU GGUACGUGGAUGGAGUGGAGGUGCACAAUGCCAAAACCAAACCCAGAGAGGAGCAGUACA ACAGCACCUA CAGAGUGGUGAGCGUGCUGACAGUGCUGCACCAGGAUUGGCUGAAUGGAAAAGAGUACAA AUGCAAAGUG

AGCAACAAAGCCCUGCCAGCCCCAAUCGAGAAAACCAUCAGCAAAGCCAAAGGACAG CCCAGAGAGCCCC AGGUGUACACCCUGCCUCCCAGCAGAGAGGAGAUGACCAAAAAUCAGGUGAGCCUGACCU GCCUGGUGAA

AGGAUUUUACCCCAGCGACAUCGCCGUGGAGUGGGAGAGCAAUGGACAGCCUGAGAA CAAUUACAAAACC ACCCCUCCUGUGCUGGACAGCGAUGGAAGCUUCUUUCUGUACAGCAAACUGACCGUGGAC AAAAGCAGAU

GGCAGCAGGGAAAUGUGUUCAGCUGCAGCGUGAUGCAUGAGGCCCUGCACAAUCACU ACACCCAGAAAAG

CCUGAGCCUGAGCCCUGGAAAA (SEQ ID NO : 30 )

Optimization 10, LC-encoding sequence:

AUGAGAGUGAUGGCCCCCAGAACCCUGAUCCUGCUGCUGUCUGGCGCCCUGGCCCUG ACAGAGACAUGGG CCGGAAGCGACAUCGUGAUGACACAGAGCCCAAGCAGCCUGACAGUGACAGCCGGAGAGA AAGUGACAAU

GAGCUGCAAGAGCAGCCAGAGCCUGCUGAACAGCGGAAAUCAGAAAAAUUACCUGAC CUGGUACCAGCAG AAACCUGGACAGCCUCCAAAACUGCUGAUCUACUGGGCCAGCACCAGAGAGAGCGGAGUG CCUGACAGAU

UCACAGGAAGCGGAAGCGGAACAGACUUCACACUGACAAUCAGCAGCGUGCAGGCCG AGGACCUGGCCGU GUACUACUGCCAGAAUGACUACAGCUACCCUUUCACCUUUGGAAGCGGAACCAAACUGGA GAUCAAACGU

ACGGUGGCCGCCCCAAGCGUGUUCAUCUUUCCACCAAGCGACGAGCAGCUGAAAAGC GGAACAGCCAGCG UGGUGUGCCUGCUGAACAAUUUUUACCCAAGAGAGGCCAAAGUGCAGUGGAAAGUGGACA AUGCCCUGCA GAGCGGAAACAGCCAGGAGAGCGUGACAGAGCAGGACAGCAAAGACAGCACAUACAGCCU GAGCAGCACA

CUGACACUGAGCAAAGCCGACUAUGAGAAACACAAAGUGUAUGCCUGUGAGGUGACC CACCAGGGACUGA

GCAGCCCUGUGACCAAAAGCUUCAACAGAGGAGAGUGC ( SEQ ID NO : 31 )

1x10 ⁵ HEK293T/17 cells / cm ² were plated 48 hours prior to transfection in T 175 cm ² tissue culture flasks in 25 mL complete Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM +GlutaMax supplemented with 10% not heat-inactivated FBS). Before transfection, cells were detached by adding Accutase® solution, washed twice with X- Vivo- 15 medium and resuspended in X- V ivo- 15 medium to determine the cell count(s). The RNA coding sequences of the HC and LC constructs with the differently optimized coding sequences (Optimization 1, 3 and 10) are shown above. In each case a HC-encoding mRNA was mixed with a corresponding LC-encoding mRNA at a molar HC:LC ratio of 1 :1 and 25 pg of the RNA-mix were added to 250 pL of cell suspension (8xl0 ⁶ /mL) in a 0.4 cm cuvette. HEK293T/17 cells were electroporated (250 V, 2 pulses, 5 ms) and seeded to a density of 2xlO ⁶ /mL in serum-free expression medium. Cell culture supernatants were harvested 48 hours later and the anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab concentration was determined via ELISA. As can be seen in Figure 16, the highest anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab level was detected in the supernatant of cells transfected with the HC and LC mRNA coding sequences Optimization 1.

Example 21: In vivo translational efficacy of anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab with different mRNA backbones

The translation efficacy of the anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab HC and LC Optimization 1 coding sequences in two different mRNA backbones (Backbone A (SEQ ID NOs: 18, 19) and Backbone B (SEQ ID NOs: 20, 21)) was tested.

To determine the exposure of the mRNA-encoded anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab in vivo, the mouse strain Balb/cJRj (Charles River, Sulzfeld, Germany) was chosen. In the study, 30 female Balb/c mice aged 8-12 weeks were treated with two weekly intravenous (i.v.) bolus injections with either a treatment or a control item. Treatment groups received 3 or 30 pg lipid nanoparticle (LNP) of formulated mRNAs separately encoding the HC and LC of the anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab (Optimization 1), either in Backbone A or Backbone B. The LNPs were diluted in 150 μl of DPBS. The control group received a LNP formulated nonspecific control mRNA encoding for the firefly luciferase. The concentration of the anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab in the serum samples was analyzed via ELISA.

Anti-CLDN 18.2 antibody concentrations were dose- and time-dependent, with a t _ma x between 24- 72 h after the first administration (Figure 17). Peak anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab concentrations (Cmax) were 743.3 μg/mL (30 μg Backbone A) and 1818 μg/mL (30 pg Backbone B), respectively. Thus, the RNA-LNP utilizing Backbone B led to the highest anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab levels. The same was observed in the results obtained for the 3 pg dose groups (Backbone A = 44 μg/mL vs.

Backbone B = 127 mg/mL).

Example 22: Cytotoxic activity of anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab encoded by Optimization 1 RNAs utilizing Backbones A or B

The activity of the anti-CLDN18.2 RiboMab expressed in mice dosed with the RNA-LNPs utilizing Backbone A or Backbone B also tested in example 21 was assessed by an antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) assay (Figure 18). The ADCC assay was conducted with the CLDN 18.2-positive gastric carcinoma cell line NUG-C4. The target-negative cell line MDA- MB-23 l_luc_tom cells served as negative control. Human PBMCs from a healthy donor were used as effector cells at an effector to target cell ratio of 20: 1. A reference anti-CLDN 18.2 antibody was used as positive control. The cytotoxic activity of CLDN 18.2 RiboMabs encoded by the two RNA- LNP samples was comparable, with mean EC50 values of 4.27 ng/mL (Backbone A) and 4.21 ng/mL (Backbone B) for the mice treated with 30 pg RNA-LNP. Comparable values were obtained for the mice treated with the lower doses. It can therefore be concluded that the antibodies produced with both Backbone A and Backbone B constructs are functional.

Example 23: Improvement of translatability of mRNA by optimization of the cloning vector to ensure the prolonged durability of the encoded protein

One of the key advantages of in vitro-transcribed (IVT) mRNA-based technology is the in vivo synthesis of therapeutic proteins (Qin et al. 2022). Nevertheless, the long-term durability of the protein of interest depends strongly on the stability, immunogenicity and translational capacity of the IVT mRNA. It is well known that these properties can be greatly improved and balanced by optimization of the coding sequence (CDS), by incorporation of nucleoside modifications into the mRNA and by the removal of aberrant products produced during in vitro transcription (Loomis et al. 2015).

The comparison studies of the performance of mRNAs transcribed from DNA constructs which differed in the transcriptional start sites and the short non-coding intermediate sequences (WO2021/214204) highlighted the importance of untranslated regions that do not belong to the CDS, but had been inserted due to individual cloning strategies. It was previously found that even minor changes in the untranslated regions of the RNA backbones can tremendously influence and boost translational activity in vivo. Specifically, for example, the replacement of the first transcribed nucleotides nt4+5 AGACG (Backbone A) to AGAAT (Backbone C) in addition with the removal of the Lig3 motif directly upstream of the Poly(A)tail (WO2021/214204).

Considering that the change of nucleotide content of intermediate sequences of mRNA can impact on the durability of the encoded protein, we performed a comparative study of mRNAs transcribed from different DNA constructs including Backbone A, Backbone C and Backbone B as well as Backbone D (Figure 19A). The backbones contained the following sequences upstream and downstream from the coding sequence, respectively: Backbone A: SEQ ID NO: 18 / SEQ ID NO: 34; Backbone B: SEQ ID NO: 20 / SEQ ID NO: 36; Backbone C: SEQ ID NO: 20 / SEQ ID NO: 35; and Backbone D: SEQ ID NO: 38 / SEQ ID NO: 36. Backbones B and D comprise the previously optimized transcriptional start sites: AGAAT (Backbone B) or AGCAC (Backbone D), which showed the highest translational capacity. The only differences between Backbone C and the Backbone B / Backbone D vectors, are the intermediate sequences (i) between the stop codon of the coding sequence and the 3’-UTR, and (ii) between the 3’-UTR and the poly-A tail. The results herein demonstrate that not only the transcriptional start sites, but also the nucleotide composition of non-coding regions at the 3 ’end of mRNA can influence its translational activity. Here, we demonstrate how our mRNA optimization studies led to the selection of the new lead cloning vectors Backbone B and Backbone D.

Backbone A (SEQ ID NOs 18 + 34 )

AGACGAACUAGUAUUCUUCUGGUCCCCACAGACUCAGAGAGAACCCGCCACC - CDS - CUCGAGCUGGUACUGCAUGCACGCAAUGCUAGCUGCCCCUUUCCCGUCCUGGGUACCCCG AGUC UCCCCCGACCUCGGGUCCCAGGUAUGCUCCCACCUCCACCUGCCCCACUCACCACCUCUG CUAG UUCCAGACACCUCCCAAGCACGCAGCAAUGCAGCUCAAAACGCUUAGCCUAGCCACACCC CCAC GGGAAACAGCAGUGAUUAACCUUUAGCAAUAAACGAAAGUUUAACUAAGCUAUACUAACC CCAG GGUUGGUCAAUUUCGUGCCAGCCACACCGAGACCUGGUCCAGAGUCGCUAGCCGCGUCGC UAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGCAUAUGACUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAA

Backbone B (SEQ ID NOs 20 + 36 ) AGAAUAAACUAGUAUUCUUCUGGUCCCCACAGACUCAGAGAGAACCCGCCACC - CDS - GGAUCCGAUCUGGUACUGCAUGCACGCAAUGCUAGCUGCCCCUUUCCCGUCCUGGGUACC CCGA GUCUCCCCCGACCUCGGGUCCCAGGUAUGCUCCCACCUCCACCUGCCCCACUCACCACCU CUGC UAGUUCCAGACACCUCCCAAGCACGCAGCAAUGCAGCUCAAAACGCUUAGCCUAGCCACA CCCC CACGGGAAACAGCAGUGAUUAACCUUUAGCAAUAAACGAAAGUUUAACUAAGCUAUACUA ACCC CAGGGUUGGUCAAUUUCGUGCCAGCCACACCCUCGAGCUAGCAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAA AAAAAAAAGCAUAUGACUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAA

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

Backbone C (SEQ ID NOs 20 + 35) AGAAUAAACUAGUAUUCUUCUGGUCCCCACAGACUCAGAGAGAACCCGCCACC - CDS - CUCGAGCUGGUACUGCAUGCACGCAAUGCUAGCUGCCCCUUUCCCGUCCUGGGUACCCCG AGUC UCCCCCGACCUCGGGUCCCAGGUAUGCUCCCACCUCCACCUGCCCCACUCACCACCUCUG CUAG UUCCAGACACCUCCCAAGCACGCAGCAAUGCAGCUCAAAACGCUUAGCCUAGCCACACCC CCAC GGGAAACAGCAGUGAUUAACCUUUAGCAAUAAACGAAAGUUUAACUAAGCUAUACUAACC CCAG GGUUGGUCAAUUUCGUGCCAGCCACACCCUGGAGCUAGCAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAA AAAAAGCAUAUGACUAAA7W\AAA7\AAAAA^AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA/kAAAAAAAA AAAAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

Backbone D (SEQ ID NOs 38 + 36)

AGCACAAACUAGUAUUCUUCUGGUCCCCACAGACUCAGAGAGAACCCGCCACC - CDS - ’GGAUCCGAUCUGGUACUGCAUGCACGCAAUGCUAGCUGCCCCUUUCCCGUCCUGGGU ACCCCGA GUCUCCCCCGACCUCGGGUCCCAGGUAUGCUCCCACCUCCACCUGCCCCACUCACCACCU CUGC UAGUUCCAGACACCUCCCAAGCACGCAGCAAUGCAGCUCAAAACGCUUAGCCUAGCCACA CCCC CACGGGAAACAGCAGUGAUUAACCUUUAGCAAUAAACGAAAGUUUAACUAAGCUAUACUA ACCC CAGGGUUGGUCAAUUUCGUGCCAGCCACACCCUCGAGCUAGCAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATk AAAAA AAAAAAAAGCAUAUGACUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

Backbone E (SEQ ID NOs 20 + 37 ) ; given for comparison

AGAAUAAACUAGUAUUCUUCUGGUCCCCACAGACUCAGAGAGAACCCGCCACC - CDS - CUCGAGCUGGUACUGCAUGCACGCAAUGCUAGCUGCCCCUUUCCCGUCCUGGGUACCCCG AGUC UCCCCCGACCUCGGGUCCCAGGUAUGCUCCCACCUCCACCUGCCCCACUCACCACCUCUG CUAG UUCCAGACACCUCCCAAGCACGCAGCAAUGCAGCUCAAAACGCUUAGCCUAGCCACACCC CCAC GGGAAACAGCAGUGAUUAACCUUUAGCAAUAAACGAAAGUUUAACUAAGCUAUACUAACC CCAG GGUUGGUCAAUUUCGUGCCAGCCACACCCUCGAGCUAGCAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAA AAAAAGCAUAUGACUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

In vivo studies

For templates, four plasmids corresponding to Backbone A, Backbone B, Backbone C and Backbone D encoding codon-optimized murine erythropoietin (mEPO) were used and linearized via either enzymatic restriction with BspQI (New England Biolabs, Cat# R0712L) or via PCR. The mRNAs starting with AGACG (Backbone A), AGAAU (Backbone B and C) or AGCAC (Backbone D) were designed to contain the 5’ untranslated region (5’UTR) sequences of human a-globin (hAg) mRNA, an FI element (SEQ ID NO: 22) as the 3’UTR, and an interrupted 100 nt- long 3’ poly(A) tail (SEQ ID NO: 23) flanking the coding sequence. The MEGAscript T7 RNA polymerase kit (Thermo Fisher Scientific, Cat#AMB 1334-5) was used for transcription, and UTP was replaced with N1 -methylpseudouridine (m1 ) triphosphate (TriLink, Cat#N-1081). Capping of the mRNAs was performed co-transcriptionally using anti-reverse Capl analog CleanCap413 (TriLink, Cat#N-7413) at a final concentration of 3 mM. To reduce the initial byproducts and to obtain the desired transcripts generated with cap analogs, the initial GTP and m1 ΨTP concentration in a transcription reaction was reduced (Triana-Alonso et al. 1995) from 7.5 mM to 1.5 mM and was incubated at 37°C for 30 min in a hybridization chamber. The initial concentration of additional nucleotides including ATP and CTP corresponded to the final 7.5 mM concentration. Adding of extra 1.5 mM GTP and mlTTP to the mixture was performed after 30, 60, 90 and 120 min of incubation and incubated further at 37°C for 30 min. To remove the template, 1/10 volume of DNA Turbo DNase (Thermo Fisher Scientific, Cat#AM1907) was added to the reaction mix and the mixture was incubated at 37° C for 15 minutes. The synthesized mRNA was isolated from the reaction mix by precipitation with half reaction volume of 8 M LiCl solution (Sigma- Aldrich, Cat#L7026). After chilling at -20°C for at least 1 hour, the RNA pellet was collected by centrifuging at 17.000 x g at 4°C for 5 minutes. After washing the RNA pellet twice with at least 200 pl ice-cold 75% Ethanol solution, it was dissolved in nuclease free water. The concentration and quality of in vitro transcribed mRNA were measured on a NanoDrop2000C spectrophotometer (Thermo Fisher Scientific, Cat#ND-2000c). Aliquots of denatured IVT mRNAs were analyzed by electrophoresis in agarose gels containing 0.005% (v/v) GelRed™ nucleic acid gel stain (Masek et al. 2005). Small aliquots of mRNA samples were stored in siliconized tubes at -20°C. All mRNAs were cellulose-purified as described (Baiersdorfer et al. 2019).

To measure the translational efficiency of EPO m1Ψ-mRNAs transcribed from different DNA constructs including Backbone A, Backbone C and Backbone B as well as Backbone D, a comparison in vivo study was performed. Female BALB/c mice from Janvier Labs (14 Route des Chenes Secs, 53940 Genest Saint Isle, France) at the age of eight to ten weeks were used for in vivo experiments in accordance with federal policies on animal research (Ethics approval number: G18-12-027). Mice (n=3/group) were injected intravenously (i.v.) with 3 pg TranslT- complexed (Mirus Bio, Cat#MIR2255) EPO m1 -mRNAs in a final volume of 200 pL Dulbecco’s modified Eagle medium (DMEM). Mice used as controls were injected with TransIT-reagent diluted in DMEM but without RNA. To quantify plasma EPO levels, 20 pl blood from each mouse was collected at 6, 24, 48 and 72 hours after injection and EPO levels were analyzed by mouse Erythropoietin DuoSet ELISA kit (R&D Systems, Minneapolis, MN, USA, Cat#DY959). Flat- bottom 96-well plates were pre-coated with 2 pg/ml rat anti-mouse EPO capture antibody (100 pl/well) and incubated at room temperature (RT) overnight. The plates were washed three times with PBS containing 0.05% Tween-20 and incubated with 1% BSA (bovine serum albumin) (Sigma-Aldrich, Cat#2153) solution at RT for 2 hours to prevent non-specific binding of the antibody and washed again. A seven-point standard curve using 2-fold serial dilutions and a high standard of 4000 pg/ml was applied. At a final volume of 50 μl plasma samples and standard diluted in 1% BSA solution were added to the appropriate wells and incubated at RT for 2 hours. After washing the plates, 100 pl of 1 pg/ml of rat biotinylated anti-mouse EPO detection antibody in 1% BSA solution was distributed to each well and incubated RT for 2 hours. The plates were washed and then incubated with 100 pl Streptavidin conjugated to horseradish peroxidase diluted (1:200) in 1% BSA solution at room temperature for 20 min. After washing, TMB 2-Component Microwell Peroxidase substrate solution (Medac Gmbh, Cat#50-76-l 1) was added to each well (100 pl/well). Samples were incubated at room temperature for 5 min, and 2 M sulfuric acid (R&D Systems, Cat#DY994) was added (50 pl/well) to stop the reaction and absorbance was measured at 450 nm and 570 nm using an Infinite 200 Pro plate reader (Tecan).

The presented data show that EPO mRNA transcribed from Backbone C is superior to Backbone A, but inferior to that derived from Backbone B and Backbone D cassettes (Figure 19A, B). EPO mRNA transcribed from Backbone C translated significantly better than the construct containing inferior transcription start site AGACG and Lig3 motif (Backbone A), but translated 2.5-fold and 10-fold less than those made from Backbone B and Backbone D at 48 h and 72 h after injection, respectively (Figure 19A, B). Subsequently, the reason for the difference in long-term translational efficacy of the encoded protein was investigated. Considering that the previously selected Backbone C differed in the 3’ -end in the downstream region of CDS and at the -9 position in the upstream region of poly(A) tail compared to Backbone B and Backbone D, it was identified that the nucleotide in the -9 position from poly(A) tail could have an impact on translation (Figure 22A), since changing the sequence downstream of the coding sequence, and upstream of the 3’- UTR had previously been shown not to have an effect on the translational capacity of mRNA (WO2021/214204). Backbone C has G, while Backbone B has C, in the -9 position at the 3’end of mRNA and the adapted Backbone B performs markedly better than the original Backbone C cassette, especially at later time points (Figure 22A) To analyze the effect of the nucleotide located in the -9 position on translation, four different Backbone B constructs were designed that contain either G, T, A or C nucleotide in the -9 position upstream of poly(A) tail. EPO ml'P-mRNA containing G in this position translated 1.5-fold, 3.3-fold, and 8-fold less at 6-24, 48 and 72 hours than those employing C at the same position, respectively (Figure 22B). When EPO ml'P-mRNA contained U or A in the given position, the differences in EPO level decreased 1 ,3-fold and 2-fold at 6-24 and 48-72 hours, respectively, compared to those that employ C at the same position (Figure 22B). These data are in good agreement with results obtained from independent in vitro experiments (Figure 20, 21).

To make sure that the effect of this one nucleotide exchange on translational efficiency of mRNA is regardless of transcriptional start site, EPO-encoding ml'P-mRNAs containing four different SNPs (G, U, A or C) in the same -9 position upstream of coded poly(A) tail that transcribed from Backbone D cassette employing AGCAC start site instead of AGAAT were injected intravenously into mice. According to the result of the EPO-specific ELISA, EPO ml'P-mRNA containing G in the -9 position upstream of poly(A) tail translated 2-fold, 3-fold, and 8-fold less at 24, 48 and 72 hours, respectively, compared to those employ A, U or C at the same position regardless of the cassette containing a different start site (Figure 23A). Both new cassettes (Backbone B and Backbone D) with C in the -9 position upstream of the coded poly(A) tail performed the best (Figure 22B and 23A). To test whether this -9 position SNP effect interferes with mRNA functionality, hematocrit levels were determined in the individual mice that were injected with EPO mRNA complexed with TransIT-reagent by collecting 18 pL of total blood at the indicated times (Figure 23B) into a tube containing 2 pl of EDTA solution followed by centrifuging in Drummond microcaps glass capillaries (20 pl volume, Merck, Germany) as described (Mahiny et al. 2016). The SNPs located at the 3' end of the mRNA constructs have a significant effect on the functionality of the mRNAs encoding murine EPO. In vitro-transcribed mRNA containing C in the -9 position upstream of poly(A)tail led to the highest hematocrit level (58%) at Day 7 after injection (Figure 23B) which is significantly higher compared to those that carry G in this position, in the case of both Backbones B (51%) and D (53.5%). EPO ml'P-mRNA bearing A, U or C in the -9 position upstream of poly(A) tail showed at least 4-5% higher elevating in hematocrit at Day 7 after injection than those employing G at the same position regardless which Backbone was used (Figure 23B).

In vitro studies To compare backbones B, C and D, we produced mRNA encoding hIL-18, Firefly Luciferase and eGFP in the context of these backbones. In vitro transcribed mlY-modified mRNAs capped with CC413 cap analog were either lipofected or electroporated in immature human dendritic cells or primary human hepatocytes. When electroporated in hiDCs (Figure 20A) Firefly Luciferase was stronger expressed when it was encoded by Backbones B and D, compared to Backbone C. Similarly, when hiDCs were electroporated with EGFP containing Backbones C and D mRNAs (Figure 20B), the latter showed stronger EGFP expression. When primary human hepatocytes were lipofected with mRNAs encoding human IL- 18 in Backbones B, C and D (Figure 20C), higher titers of hIL-18 were detected in culture medium in the case of Backbones B and D, compared to Backbone C. Thus, the same enhanced performance provided by Backbone B or D, as compared to Backbone C, is observed, regardless of the coding sequence.

In order to investigate the role of single nucleotide change between Backbones B and D vs Backbone C at the position -9 upstream of the polyA sequence, Firefly Luciferase mRNAs were produced in Backbones B and C containing either A, G, T or C nucleotides at this position. In vitro transcribed mlY mRNAs capped with CC413 cap analog were electroporated in hiDCs and the expression of Luciferase was assayed (Figure 21A, B). For both Backbones, G at the position -9 of the polyA negatively affected Luciferase expression, suggesting that SNP at the position -9 upstream of the polyA sequence has a major effect on mRNA translation.

For electroporation experiments, in vitro transcribed mlY-modified mRNAs capped with CC413 cap analog were electroporated in hiDCs cells in duplicates with 30mM RNA and a single pulse at 300V/12ms. Cells were plated and cultured in 12- or 96-well plates in RPMI medium supplemented with ML-4/GM-CSF (Miltenyi). For Firefly Luciferase mRNAs, Luciferase expression was assayed with Bright-Glo assay (Promega) 2-48h post electroporation. For eGFP mRNAs, cells were harvested at 6-96h and assayed with FACS Cantoll (BD).

For lipofection experiments, primary human hepatocytes (BioIVT) were transfected with TransIT (Minis) according to manufacturer protocol. Supernatants were collected at 16- 168h and analyzed for hIL-18 translation by ELISA (R&D Systems).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the presented data confirm that the 3’end region of mRNA is a very sensitive and exceptional area in terms of translational capacity as well as functionality of mRNA. This study evaluated and directly compared the quality, the translational efficiency and functionality of midmodified EPO mRNAs derived from the 4 DNA constructs including Backbone A, Backbone B, Backbone C and Backbone D. Mld-mRNA transcribed from the previously selected Backbone C significantly outperforms Backbone A, which contained the inferior transcription start site AGACG and the Lig3 motif at the 3’end (Figure 19A). Nevertheless, the further adapted Backbone B and Backbone D cassette performs markedly better in vitro and in vivo as compared to the Backbone C cassette, especially at later time points (Figure 19A, 19B, 20A, 20B, 20C). Both in vitro and in vivo results suggest that, surprisingly, a single nucleotide substitution (e.g., guanine (G) in Backbone C vs. cytosine (C) in Backbone B and Backbone D) in the -9 position upstream of coded poly(A) tail provides improved expression of Backbone B and Backbone D compared to Backbone C. The use of other nucleotides than C, particularly G, at this position has negative impact on translational capacity and functionality of mRNA (Figure 21A, 21B, 22B, 23 A, 23B) regardless of start sites.

Additional comparative studies

Further comparative studies were performed to assess how other changes in the nucleotide content of intermediate sequences of mRNA can impact on the durability of the encoded protein. Further comparative studies of mRNAs transcribed from different DNA constructs including Backbone A, Backbone G, Backbone I and Backbone B (Figure 24). The backbones contained the following sequences upstream and downstream from the coding sequence, respectively: Backbone A: SEQ ID NO: 18 / SEQ ID NO: 34; Backbone B: SEQ ID NO: 20 / SEQ ID NO: 36; Backbone G: SEQ ID NO: 43 / SEQ ID NO: 36; and Backbone I: SEQ ID NO: 44 / SEQ ID NO: 45. The results herein demonstrate that not only the transcriptional start sites, but also the nucleotide composition of non-coding regions at the 3’end of mRNA can influence its translational activity. Here, we demonstrate how our mRNA optimization studies led to the selection of the new lead cloning vectors Backbone B and Backbone D.

Backbone A ( SEQ ID NOs 18 + 34 )

AGACGAACUAGUAUUCUUCUGGUCCCCACAGACUCAGAGAGAACCCGCCACC - CDS - CUCGAGCUGGUACUGCAUGCACGCAAUGCUAGCUGCCCCUUUCCCGUCCUGGGUACCCCG AGUC UCCCCCGACCUCGGGUCCCAGGUAUGCUCCCACCUCCACCUGCCCCACUCACCACCUCUG CUAG UUCCAGACACCUCCCAAGCACGCAGCAAUGCAGCUCAAAACGCUUAGCCUAGCCACACCC CCAC GGGAAACAGCAGUGAUUAACCUUUAGCAAUAAACGAAAGUUUAACUAAGCUAUACUAACC CCAG GGUUGGUCAAUUUCGUGCCAGCCACACCGAGACCUGGUCCAGAGUCGCUAGCCGCGUCGC yAAA

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGCAUAUGACUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATkA AAAAAAAA

Backbone B (SEQ ID NOs 20 + 36 )

AGAAUAAACUAGUAUUCUUCUGGUCCCCACAGACUCAGAGAGAACCCGCCACC - CDS - GGAUCCGAUCUGGUACUGCAUGCACGCAAUGCUAGCUGCCCCUUUCCCGUCCUGGGUACC CCGA GUCUCCCCCGACCUCGGGUCCCAGGUAUGCUCCCACCUCCACCUGCCCCACUCACCACCU CUGC UAGUUCCAGACACCUCCCAAGCACGCAGCAAUGCAGCUCAAAACGCUUAGCCUAGCCACA CCCC CACGGGAAACAGCAGUGAUUAACCUUUAGCAAUAAACGAAAGUUUAACUAAGCUAUACUA ACCC CAGGGUUGGUCAAUUUCGUGCCAGCCACACCCUCGAGCUAGCAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAA AAAAAAAAGCAUAUGACUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

Backbone G ( SEQ ID NOs 43 + 36 )

AGAAUAAACUAGUCUCAACACAACAUAUACAAAACAAACGAAUCUCAAGCAAUCAAG CAUUCUA CUUCUAUUGCAGCAAUUUAAAUCAUUUCUUUUAAAGCAAAAGCAAUUUUCUGAAAAUUUU CACC AUUUACGAACGAUAGCC - CDS -

GGAUCCGAUCUGGUACUGCAUGCACGCAAUGCUAGCUGCCCCUUUCCCGUCCUGGGU ACCCCGA GUCUCCCCCGACCUCGGGUCCCAGGUAUGCUCCCACCUCCACCUGCCCCACUCACCACCU CUGC UAGUUCCAGACACCUCCCAAGCACGCAGCAAUGCAGCUCAAAACGCUUAGCCUAGCCACA CCCC CACGGGAAACAGCAGUGAUUAACCUUUAGCAAUAAACGAAAGUUUAACUAAGCUAUACUA ACCC CAGGGUUGGUCAAUUUCGUGCCAGCCACACCCUCGAGCUAGCAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAA AAAAAAAAGCAUAUGACUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

Backbone I (SEQ ID NOs 44 + 45 )

AGACGAACUAGUCUCAACACAACAUAUACAAAACAAACGAAUCUCAAGCAAUCAAGC AUUCUAC UUCUAUUGCAGCAAUUUAAAUCAUUUCUUUUAAAGCAAAAGCAAUUUUCUGAAAAUUUUC ACCA UUUACGAACGAUAGCC - CDS - GGAUCCGAUCUGGUACUGCAUGCACGCAAUGCUAGCUGCCCCUUUCCCGUCCUGGGUACC CCGA GUCUCCCCCGACCUCGGGUCCCAGGUAUGCUCCCACCUCCACCUGCCCCACUCACCACCU CUGC UAGUUCCAGACACCUCCCAAGCACGCAGCAAUGCAGCUCAAAACGCUUAGCCUAGCCACA CCCC CACGGGAAACAGCAGUGAUUAACCUUUAGCAAUAAACGAAAGUUUAACUAAGCUAUACUA ACCC CAGGGUUGGUCAAUUUCGUGCCAGCCACACCGAGACCUGGUCCAGAGUCGCUAGCCGCGU CGCU AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGCAUAUGACUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

The in vzVro-transcribed mRNA corresponding to the TEV 5'UTR, comprising Backbone G, has a beneficial effect on long-term translational activity of mRNA and was always previously found to surpass the performance of the in vzfro-transcribed hAg 5'UTR-specific mRNA comprising Backbone A. Nevertheless, the two constructs differed from each other not only in 5’UTR, but also in other non-coding intermediate regions, including the transcriptional start site, the Kozak- sequence, restriction sites relevant from the point of view of cloning strategies, and the non-coding filler sequence (ligation 3, Lig3) at the 3' end of mRNA between the 3’UTR and the poly-A sequence. In order to find out whether the Backbone G construct can improve the effect on the long-term durability of the encoded protein, four other DNA constructs were designed by combining the mentioned non-coding sequences of Backbone A and Backbone G, which led to Backbone I without Kozak-sequence, Backbone I, and Backbone B constructs (Figure 24). EPO- encoding mRNAs containing ml V were prepared from each DNA construct. After purification, 3 pg of TransIT-complexed mRNAs were injected into Balb/c mice intravenously to determine the EPO level using murine EPO-specific ELISA at 6, 24 and 48 hours after administration (Figure 24). This showed that Backbone G mRNA transcribed from DNA construct translated 4-fold and 10-fold greater amount of EPO level compared to those generated from DNA template Backbone A at 24 and 48 hours after injection, respectively (Figure 24). However, this also demonstrated that EPO mRNA from the newly created DNA construct Backbone B (without lig3, with AGAAUA transcriptional start site, hAg 5’UTR, and Kozak-sequence) performed significantly better at each time points than those of Backbone A and Backbone I starting with AGACGA, and than those of Backbone G, at 24 and 48 hours after injection (Figure 24). This finding suggests that the long-term translational capacity of the mRNA is determined not only by the 5'UTR, but also by other non-coding, intermediate sequences such as transcriptional start site, Kozak-sequence as well as restriction sites and filler sequences used for cloning procedure.

Subsequently it was identified that not only the 5'end, but also the 3'end sequences can affect translational capacity of IVT RNA encoding murine EPO. For efficient cloning, BamHI (GGAUCC) and Xhol (CUCGAG) sites were incorporated downstream from the CDS and upstream from the 3’UTR and polyA tail, in newly created Backbone B bearing the transcription start site (AGACG and AGAAT) and having the 3' end (with or without ligation3) from the Backbone A and Backbone G constructs, respectively (Figure 25). Three pg of TransIT- complexed, mlT-modified EPO mRNA transcribed from each variation of DNA construct were injected into mice intravenously. After that EPO level of plasma collected from mice was measured at 6, 24, 48 and 72 hours after administration to compare the translational activity of each mRNA construct (Figure 25). EPO mRNA from Backbone B (AGAAU + Kozak + hAg 5’UTR + BamHl/XhoI without ligation3) significantly outperformed the translational efficiency of mRNA of Backbones A or G, at each time point regardless of which restriction site (BamHI and Xhol) was used downstream from the CDS (Figure 25). This result suggests the use of Backbone B and DNA templates encoding Backbone B as new cloning vectors and templates for IVT reactions for mRNA preparation, instead of Backbone G.

In a direct comparative experiment, it was found that EPO mRNA with Backbone B translated much better than those with Backbone A or G, after intravenous injection of TransIT-complexed EPO mRNA (Figure 26). To confirm that this effect is not dependent on the formulation, each EPO RNA was separately encapsulated in the same benchmark lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation, and their performance was determined in vivo. Plasma EPO level of mice injected with 3 pg of each LNP-formulated mRNA was measured using murine EPO-specific ELISA at 6, 24, 48 and 72 hours after intravenous administration ((LNP)). This demonstrated that Backbone B has a strong beneficial effect on long-term translation of LNP-formulated EPO mRNA, since Backbone B mRNA translated at least 4-fold and 14-fold more, compared to those transcribed from Backbone A and Backbone G at 24 and 48 hours after injection, respectively (Figure 26). EPO ELISA demonstrated that the differences between the constructs are more pronounced when an LNP formulation is used instead of TransIT reagent, which could potentially be due to the different type of target cells taking up the mRNA. Taken together, mRNA of Backbone B construct translated the best and provided long duration of the encoded protein, independent of the formulation used, indicating that this effect is sequence-dependent and the combination of noncoding intermediate sequences in Backbone B are particularly advantageous.

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EQUIVALENTS

[519] Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific embodiments of the invention described herein. It is to be understood that the invention encompasses all variations, combinations, and permutations in which one or more limitations, elements, clauses, descriptive terms, etc., from one or more of the listed claims is introduced into another claim dependent on the same base claim (or, as relevant, any other claim) unless otherwise indicated or unless it would be evident to one of ordinary skill in the art that a contradiction or inconsistency would arise. Further, it should also be understood that any embodiment or aspect of the invention can be explicitly excluded from the claims, regardless of whether the specific exclusion is recited in the specification. The scope of the present invention is not intended to be limited to the above Description, but rather is as set forth in the claims that follow.