mRNA technology: What do we know?

The mRNA technology has been researched since the early 60s, with applications not only within the infectious disease space but in rare diseases and respiratory viruses. But the most significant progress has been made during the past decade, said Dr Francesca Ceddia, SVP Respiratory Vaccines, Global Medical, Moderna Inc, at ECCMID 2023.

“Moderna’s investment in technology, infrastructure, and technical capabilities has enabled advanced mRNA platform technology development, including the mRNA COVID-19 vaccine which has saved millions of lives globally,” Ceddia said.

By the end of 2020,  expedited approvals have been granted to two mRNA vaccines to stem the tide of the COVID-19 pandemic – protecting the young, the old, and the immunocompromised. Unlike other vaccines that put a weakened or inactivated germ into the body, mRNA vaccines use mRNA created in the laboratory to teach the cells how to produce proteins that trigger an immune response in the body.

Fast facts about mRNA vaccine

·       The vaccine mostly remains near the deltoid muscle and the axillary lymph node after injection.

·       mRNA from vaccines does not enter the nucleus nor alter the DNA.

·       mRNA and the spike protein produced do not stay long in the body; they degrade within 24–48 hours after injection.

·       Studies have shown mRNA-1273 vaccines to be safe for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.