mRNA-Based Cancer Vaccine

Prelims Bits

Context: Russia has developed an mRNA-based personalized cancer vaccine, which is expected to be available for free to patients by early 2025.

About the mRNA-Based Cancer Vaccine:

• What is an mRNA-Based Cancer Vaccine?
  • An mRNA (messenger RNA) vaccine works by delivering genetic instructions to the body’s cells, enabling them to produce proteins (antigens) that stimulate an immune response.
  • Unlike traditional vaccines that are preventive, mRNA cancer vaccines are designed for treating patients with existing cancer by targeting specific tumor antigens.
• How Does it Work?
  • Immune System Training: The vaccine provides genetic instructions to produce proteins similar to tumor antigens, prompting the immune system to attack cancer cells.
  • Personalized Treatment: It targets specific cancer markers found in individual patients, enhancing precision and effectiveness.
  • Reduced Side Effects: Unlike chemotherapy, which can damage healthy tissues, mRNA vaccines target only cancer cells, minimizing harm to healthy tissues.
  • Multi-Antigen Targeting: These vaccines can target multiple tumor markers, unlike the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine, which targets a single antigen.
• Other mRNA Cancer Vaccines:
  • UK’s Cancer Vaccine Launch Pad (2023): This initiative aims to speed up clinical trials for personalized cancer immunotherapy.
  • CureVac’s CVGBM Vaccine (USA, 2023): Shows promising immune responses in glioblastoma (brain cancer) patients.

Significance of mRNA-Based Cancer Vaccine:

• Breakthrough in Cancer Treatment: Represents a significant advancement in immunotherapy, offering a personalized, targeted approach to cancer treatment.
• Advancement in Precision Medicine: Unlike conventional chemotherapy, which affects both cancer and healthy cells, mRNA vaccines are tailored to individual patients, improving effectiveness and reducing side effects.
• Potential for Multi-Cancer Application: These vaccines can be adapted for different types of cancer by targeting multiple tumor antigens, offering a versatile treatment option.
• Improved Immune Response: Enhances the body’s natural defense system, enabling it to recognize and eliminate cancer cells more effectively.