Today's Clinical Lab - News, Editorial and Products for the Clinical Laboratory
3D illustration showing mRNA molecules on a tablet device surrounded by vectors of a syringe, vials, magnifying lens, and human DNA helix.
Many features of mRNA technology confer unique advantages that could accelerate global response to novel diseases and combat health inequity

Realizing the Promise of mRNA Tech to Revolutionize Global Health

Biopharmaceutical perspective on how the past, present, and future of mRNA technology will impact health care

Photo portrait of Drew Burch
Drew Burch, MBA
Photo portrait of Drew Burch

Drew Burch, MBA, is the EVP of Nucleic Acid Products at TriLink BioTechnologies, part of Maravai LifeSciences. He has over 30 years of experience in strategic, operational, commercial, and financial divisions in the life sciences industry.

ViewFull Profile
Learn about ourEditorial Policies.
Published:Oct 03, 2023
|2 min read
Register for free to listen to this article
Listen with Speechify
0:00
2:00
Photo portrait of Drew Burch
Drew Burch, MBA, is the EVP of Nucleic Acid Products at TriLink BioTechnologies, part of Maravai LifeSciences. He has over 30 years of experience in strategic, operational, commercial, and financial divisions in the life sciences industry.

In today’s post-pandemic world, the potential impact of messenger RNA (mRNA) technology extends far beyond vaccines, signaling a paradigm shift in global health. With this versatile tool, public health experts and biopharmaceutical leaders stand poised to gain significant ground in the fight against emerging health threats and conditions.

Advancements in mRNA technology

Although mRNA technology has been studied for many years, its breakthrough can be attributed to several key advancements. One significant milestone is the innovation in capping technology, which ensures the stability and longevity of mRNA molecules. By modifying the protective cap, scientists have been able to enhance the translational efficiency of mRNA. This innovation—used in the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine and other therapeutics—has not only reduced manufacturing costs but also yielded higher quality raw materials for critical treatments. Newer cap innovations enable higher levels of protein production, opening the opportunity to better achieve prophylactic and therapeutic goals with reduced risk of adverse effects.

Additionally, scientists have made substantial progress in optimizing lipid nanoparticles and other delivery systems. These systems effectively encapsulate mRNA molecules, facilitating their efficient delivery into host/target cells. Such advancements in delivery systems have been instrumental to the success of mRNA-based vaccines, enabling rapid deployment and widespread administration. 

Transforming global health approaches

Many features of mRNA technology confer unique advantages that could accelerate global response to novel diseases and combat health inequity. One significant aspect is the adaptability of mRNA platforms, which allows swift modifications to target different diseases or evolving variants not needing significant changes to delivery systems or production processes. This flexibility positions mRNA technology as a powerful tool for addressing emerging infectious diseases. 

Furthermore, mRNA-based therapies can be customized to target specific genetic mutations, opening new possibilities for the treatment of rare diseases and cancers. This personalized approach is of tremendous value to patients who have previously had limited or no treatment options.

Another advantage is the streamlined manufacturing process of mRNA therapeutics. Compared to traditional vaccine production methods, mRNA vaccines can be manufactured more efficiently, reducing the time required for production. This accelerated production process facilitates quicker response to outbreaks and pandemics, ensuring timely access to vaccines for populations in need. 

While traditional vaccine manufacturing facilities are often large, complex, and expensive to construct, mRNA vaccines can be produced in smaller, more flexible facilities, reducing infrastructure costs and enabling decentralized manufacturing. With this decentralized approach, mRNA-based vaccines can be made accessible to remote, underserved, and low-resource communities.

Empowering a healthier future

mRNA technology is a beacon of hope in a rapidly changing world. Its adaptability, scalability, and streamlined production processes enable rapid responses to emerging infectious diseases and the production of critical therapeutics, while its potential for personalized medicine helps fight against rare, genetic disorders and other medical challenges. The future of global health is intertwined with the transformative potential of mRNA. Advancements in this field will continue to revolutionize health care and make innovative treatments and preventative measures more readily available, fostering a healthier and more resilient world.