Reference:
Bahl, K., Senn, J. J., Yuzhakov, O., Bulychev, A., Brito, L. A., Hassett, K. J., Laska, M. E., Smith, M., Almarsson, Ö., Thompson, J., Ribeiro, A. (Mick), Watson, M., Zaks, T.,
& Ciaramella, G. (2017). Preclinical and clinical demonstration of immunogenicity by mRNA vaccines against H10N8 and H7N9 influenza viruses. Molecular Therapy, 25(6), 1316-1326. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ymthe.2017.03.035
Summary:
The study presents mRNA vaccines targeting H10N8 and H7N9 influenza viruses, developed to respond rapidly to potential pandemics. The World Health Organization reported 120 new H7N9 cases in China, underscoring the urgency for effective vaccines. The modified mRNA vaccines, encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles, demonstrated strong immune responses in animal models and early human trials. Mice vaccinated with H7N9 mRNA showed significant protection against lethal challenges, while preliminary results from a Phase 1 trial indicated high seroconversion rates and acceptable adverse event profiles in humans. These findings suggest that mRNA vaccines can effectively stimulate robust immunity against avian influenza viruses, representing a promising platform for rapid vaccine development.