Lecture on mRNA Vaccines

Introduction to mRNA Vaccines

• The first two vaccines approved for COVID-19 are based on mRNA technology.
• Distinction from conventional vaccines:
  • Traditional vaccines use dead or inactive virus particles.
  • mRNA vaccines use mRNA as the base.

How mRNA Vaccines Work

• mRNA as Instruction Manual
  • mRNA functions like an instruction manual within our body.
  • It is used by cells to build proteins.
• COVID-19 Vaccine Functionality
  • mRNA carries instructions to build the spike protein of the virus.
  • The spike protein itself is harmless but trains the immune system to fight the real virus.

Challenges with mRNA

• mRNA is fragile and breaks down quickly.
• Requires protection to ensure delivery to cells:
  • Wrapped in lipid nanoparticles for protection and delivery.
  • Lipid nanoparticles shield mRNA from enzymes called RNases that digest RNA.

Storage and Handling

• mRNA degrades at room temperature.
• Vaccines must be kept extremely cold to remain effective.

Research and Future of mRNA Medicines

• Result of decades of research into mRNA technology.
• Potential applications beyond COVID-19:
  • mRNA-based drugs are being developed to treat various diseases.

Conclusion

• These vaccines mark a significant advancement in mRNA medicine.
• They showcase the potential of mRNA for future medical treatments.