Unbiased Science

mR(NA) Big Shot: Who Do You Think You Are? - Understanding mRNA Technology

Sep 17, 2025
Guest
Dr. Nancy Haigwood
In this insightful discussion, Dr. Nancy Haigwood, a seasoned virologist and immunologist, unpacks the groundbreaking world of mRNA technology. She highlights how mRNA vaccines were rapidly developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing widespread misconceptions along the way. The conversation delves into the science behind mRNA and its potential to revolutionize not just vaccines but also cancer treatment and other therapies. Dr. Haigwood emphasizes the crucial role of clear scientific communication in fostering public trust in these advancements.
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ADVICE

Remove Access Barriers For Vaccination

  • Avoid adding barriers like prescription requirements that reduce vaccine access.
  • Keep COVID vaccines widely available to ensure high uptake, especially for older adults and children.
INSIGHT

How mRNA Became A Viable Vaccine Platform

  • mRNA vaccines let the body act as a factory to produce the desired viral protein quickly.
  • Modified nucleotides and lipid nanoparticles solved stability and delivery problems that previously limited RNA use.
INSIGHT

Prior MERS Work Accelerated COVID Vaccines

  • Prior structural vaccine work on MERS sped COVID-19 vaccine design because the spike protein knowledge transferred.
  • Researchers used pre-fusion stabilized spike designs to make the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine gene selection fast and accurate.
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