The cells in our body produce messenger RNAs (mRNA) that act as scripts to make distinct proteins we require for our survival. Scientists have the ability to create new mRNAs to correct these instructions when they fail to function correctly. Although the majority of researchers studying mRNAs are not creating new drugs, their basic understanding of how mRNA works has led the way for others to develop successful mRNA medications, such as Covid-19 vaccines.
But, what does mRNA do? In simple terms, mRNA carries crucial messages from our DNA, or Deoxyribonucleic acid, to the cell’s machinery, instructing it how to make specific proteins. This process is akin to having a library of cookbooks filled with various recipes (genes) to produce different proteins. Our bodies need approximately 100,000 proteins to function properly, which assist in tasks like breaking down food and executing essential chemical reactions.
The Role of mRNA in Medicine Production
mRNAs play an important role in making medicine. Thanks to scientists’ understanding of how mRNAs instruct cells to form proteins, they can easily craft codes for various proteins and modify these codes to suit the needs of individual patients. This offers a significant amount of precision and customization in treatment plans.
Another advantage of mRNA treatments is their scalability and uniformity. The process to develop one type of mRNA is the same across different mRNA types. Unlike traditional drugs, which each have unique chemistry and production methods, mRNA production follows a standardized process. This streamlines production, making it easier to create variations.
Moreover, mRNA treatments do not have permanent effects because cells naturally degrade mRNA once it has completed its task. Because of this, adjusting dosages to meet changing patient requirements is effortless. Additionally, scientists can generate substantial amounts of mRNA in laboratory settings, making the development and distribution of mRNA-based medicines more accessible on a larger scale.
mRNA and Vaccine Development
There are also promising signs for mRNA-based vaccines, extending to diseases like seasonal flu, herpes, respiratory syncytial virus, norovirus, Lyme disease, Zika, and shingles. RNA therapies show promise in cancer treatment as well; by leveraging the body’s immune response, cancer vaccines tailored to target specific mutations in tumors can enhance antibody production to mark and attack cancer cells. This personalized approach minimizes harm to healthy cells.
The Future of mRNA-Based Medicines
The future of mRNA-based medicine looks notably promising, offering highly personalized, effective therapies with fewer side effects. This revolutionary approach has the potential to tackle diverse diseases by precisely altering cellular processes and correcting protein deficiencies. The ease of customization and production positions mRNA as a versatile tool in modern medicine, redefining treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes across various medical conditions.
UPSC Civil Services Examination: Previous Year’s Questions
Common questions on mRNA treatments have appeared in previous years’ question papers of the UPSC Civil Services Examination. One such questions asked why it is difficult to develop an effective malaria vaccine? The answer lies in the extraordinary ability of the Plasmodium parasites, which cause malaria, to evade the immune system.
Another question discussed the recent developments regarding ‘Recombinant Vector Vaccines’. The correct answer highlighted that these vaccines are manufactured through genetic engineering, with bacteria and viruses used as vectors. Such examination questions illustrate the increasing relevance of mRNA and genetics within the field of disease treatment and prevention.
