mRNA
Messenger RNA: instructions that tell a cell to make a particular protein.
Messenger RNA carries instructions from a gene to the cell's protein-making machinery. An mRNA vaccine delivers instructions for one harmless piece of a virus, so the immune system learns to recognize it. mRNA breaks down easily, which is why it travels in lipid nanoparticles.
Where it matters
Technologies we track
- mRNA vaccines in lipid nanoparticlesStep 5 · EverydayThe COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna carry messenger RNA, instructions that get cells to make a copy of one virus protein so the immune system learns to recognize it.
- Personalized mRNA cancer vaccine (intismeran autogene)Step 3 · TestingEach course is made for one patient.