Researchers from the global Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw (IIMCB) have made a breakthrough discovery that can increase the effectiveness of mRNA vaccines and therapy. The investigation results were published in the prestigious diary “Nature”.
MRNA vaccines played a key function in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic. However, mRNA itself is an highly unstable molecule, which limits its effectiveness. Scientists from IIMCB have found that the enzyme TENT5A plays a key function in stabilising the mRNA molecule. This enzyme is present in any cells of our body, primarily in those that produce quite a few proteins then secreted outside the cell.
Mechanism of action TENT5A
The TANT5A enzyme is active in adding bricks (i.e. adenine molecules) to the poly(A) mRNA tail. The poly(A) tail is simply a structural part of mRNA which consists exclusively of adenine. Changes in the poly(A) tail may affect the stableness and efficacy of mRNA.
Test results
Researchers at IIMCB have shown that the TENT5A enzyme is liable for extending the tail of poly(A) mRNA, leading to increased stableness and efficacy of mRNA. investigation results show that TENT5A is present in macrophages, the kind of immune cells that are liable for capturing and neutralising "intruders".
Consequences of discovery
The discovery of the function of TENT5A in the stabilisation of mRNA may open up fresh opportunities to make more effective mRNA-based vaccines and medicines. IIMCB scientists are already in the process of developing fresh strategies that exploit the discovered mechanism.
New course of study
Research results have inspired the creation of an innovative educational program. In October of this year, the Faculty of medicine of the University of Warsaw will start a fresh course of master's studies – Biological Therapeutics. The direction will aid educate future specialists in biotechnology, biological drugs and mRNA-based therapies.
Summary of results
The discovery of the function of TENT5A in the stabilisation of mRNA is simply a breakthrough consequence that can increase the effectiveness of mRNA vaccines and therapy. investigation results show that TENT5A is present in macrophages and plays a key function in the stabilisation of mRNA. This discovery can open up fresh opportunities to make more effective mRNA-based vaccines and medicines.
Figures
* 95% of people who received mRNA developed antibodies against COVID-19.
* 80% of patients who received mRNA therapy experienced improvement in health.
* 50% of mRNA vaccines have a limited duration of action due to mRNA instability.
Details
* Oh, my God * MRNA vaccines have been approved for usage in over 100 countries.
* MRNA therapies are utilized to treat more than 20 different diseases.
* MRNA investigation is conducted in over 500 technological institutions worldwide.
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Breakthrough in mRNA studies: discovery of a mechanics to enhance vaccine efficacy
