Why do some vaccines use mRNA instead of weakened germs?
Quick Answer
mRNA vaccines deliver instructions for cells to make a harmless piece of a germ, which teaches the immune system what to recognize. This avoids using live virus and can be designed quickly once the genetic sequence is known.
The Full Story
mRNA vaccines contain a small strand of messenger RNA wrapped in a lipid nanoparticle. After the vaccine enters cells, the cells briefly make a harmless protein piece from the target pathogen, and the immune system learns to recognize it. This approach does not use a live weakened germ, which can simplify manufacturing and speed development. mRNA technology was used widely in the 2020s for COVID-19 vaccines, building on decades of research by scientists such as Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman. The same platform is being studied for other infectious diseases and even some cancers.
Key Facts
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