Description: An mRNA hybrid vaccine is a type of vaccine that combines messenger RNA (mRNA) technology with other vaccination approaches to enhance the immune response of the body. This innovative technology allows the body’s cells to produce specific proteins from the pathogen, triggering a rapid and effective immune response. Unlike traditional vaccines, which often use inactivated or attenuated viruses, mRNA vaccines introduce genetic instructions that enable the body’s cells to synthesize antigens, resulting in a quicker production of antibodies. This hybrid approach may include the combination of mRNA with adjuvants or conventional vaccination platforms, improving efficacy and the duration of immunity. The relevance of mRNA hybrid vaccines has gained particular importance in the context of pandemics, where speed in production and the ability to adapt to new virus variants are crucial. Additionally, their flexible design allows for potential use in a variety of infectious diseases and possibly in cancer therapies, opening new frontiers in preventive and therapeutic medicine.
History: mRNA vaccine technology began to be developed in the 1990s, but it was during the COVID-19 pandemic that its implementation accelerated. mRNA vaccines, such as those from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, proved to be highly effective and safe, leading to renewed interest in researching hybrids that combine this technology with other vaccination methods.
Uses: mRNA hybrid vaccines are primarily used for the prevention of infectious diseases, especially in public health emergencies such as pandemics. They are also being researched for use in cancer therapies, where they may help stimulate a specific immune response against tumor cells.
Examples: An example of an mRNA hybrid vaccine is the COVID-19 vaccine developed by Moderna, which combines mRNA with an adjuvant to enhance the immune response. Another example under research is the use of mRNA in cancer therapies, where combinations with other immunological treatments are being tested.
