- Covid-19 mRNA vaccines are used to cure cancer.
- Research on mice proved the shrinkage of tumor melanoma.
- mRNA vaccines to become a powerful addition to the existing medicine.
The lightning-fast development of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines by Moderna and BioNTech was rooted in decades-long cancer research. They aimed to use mRNA to trigger the immune system against tumors, but tumors suppress immune response, So, they shifted focus to creating a vaccine-like approach, training the immune system to recognize specific cancer mutations, reports Knowable.
Advances
mRNA’s advantage was its flexibility, allowing tailored vaccines. They found ways to enhance mRNA potency, deliver it to lymph nodes, and observe strong immune responses in mice.
Research And Observation
Moving from humans to mice, they observed tumor shrinkage in some melanoma patients. Over 450 patients received individualized vaccines, and over 250 received off-the-shelf mRNA cancer vaccines. The challenge lies in regulatory approval for personalized treatments for each patient. However, discussions with authorities aim to streamline the process by maintaining a consistent manufacturing framework.
Challenges In The Path Of Cure
Cancer’s complexity and adaptability make it challenging to cure. mRNA vaccines offer a promising avenue due to their adaptability to individual mutations. Tumors employ tactics to evade immune response and suppress it. mRNA vaccines aim to overcome this by targeting specific mutations and may be combined with other therapies for stronger effects.
Faster Responses
The speed in responding to the pandemic was due in part to the urgency inherent in cancer treatment, where everyday matters. The process of creating customized mRNA vaccines has significantly shortened from months to weeks.
While mRNA cancer vaccines hold promise for various cancers, they might not be a universal solution. Cancer is highly complex, but these vaccines could become a powerful addition to existing treatments.
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Source: Knowable
