mRNA Vaccines: From Pandemic to the War Against Cancer

mRNA technology proved its power during the COVID-19 pandemic with Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines. Now, scientists are applying this platform to develop personalized cancer vaccines — a breakthrough that could completely change how we treat cancer.

How mRNA Cancer Vaccines Work

Unlike traditional preventive vaccines, mRNA cancer vaccines are designed specifically for each patient. Doctors analyze the tumor genome, identify characteristic mutant proteins (neoantigens), then synthesize mRNA encoding these proteins. When injected, the immune system learns to recognize and destroy cancer cells carrying similar mutations.

Promising Clinical Trial Results

Moderna and Merck Phase II trial on melanoma patients showed that mRNA vaccine combined with Keytruda immunotherapy reduced recurrence or death risk by 44% compared to Keytruda alone. BioNTech is also testing personalized vaccines for pancreatic, colorectal, and lung cancers.

The Future of mRNA Vaccines in Vietnam

The National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology and VinBioCare are researching domestic mRNA vaccine platforms. While still far from producing personalized cancer vaccines, this is an important first step for Vietnam to access the worlds most advanced biomedical technology. The estimated cost per personalized vaccine course is currently around $100,000, but is expected to decrease significantly as the technology matures.