mRNA vaccines, the story of a discovery that almost never happened

In this episode, we’ll be talking about mRNA vaccines and Dr Katalin Kariko, the great scientist behind this discovery. For many years, Dr Kariko’s work was dismissed and considered a waste of time. When she started working on mRNA, no one paid attention to her research. But of course, no one could imagine then, that one day it would help fight the biggest pandemic of our lifetimes. Dr Kariko never gave up on her obsession with mRNA, and we are oh so glad she didn’t! More info about mRNA What does mRNA stand for? Messenger ribonucleic acid. What is mRNA? What does mNRA do? A mRNA vaccine is a type of vaccine that activates the adaptive immune system using messenger RNA1 whose nucleotide sequence encodes a protein that is identical or similar to a pathogen or tumor antigen. About the mRNA vaccine mechanism How mRNA COVID-19 vaccines work? This protein is produced directly in the target cells by translation of the messenger RNA contained in the vaccine, and is recognized by the body's immune system, which responds by producing antibodies to the pathogen or cancer that is being countered. Messenger RNA can be delivered directly in solution, or encapsulated (in) lipid nanoparticles; RNA viruses are also being studied as possible vectors for RNA vaccines. This type of vaccine has some advantages over DNA vaccines in terms of production, patient delivery, and safety of use and has shown promising effects in human clinical trials. Science for Care is a podcast by HealthTech for Care , a non profit organization designed to support and promote access to care for all. If you enjoy our show, please mention it to your friends, family and co-workers, and leave ratings and reviews on your favorite listening platform. Production: MedShake Studio Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.