What is mRNA?

Messenger RNA (mRNA) is a vital player in the intricate process of gene expression and protein synthesis. It acts as a messenger, carrying genetic information from the DNA to the protein-building machinery in the cell. With the advent of mRNA vaccines, such as the groundbreaking COVID-19 vaccines developed by Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech, mRNA technology has gained immense attention.

In this article, we will explore the fundamentals of mRNA, including its structure, role in protein synthesis, and interaction with the immune system. We will also highlight the differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic mRNA and discuss the latest advances and applications of mRNA technology.

mRNA Definition

mRNA, or messenger RNA, is a type of genetic material that serves as an intermediary between DNA and protein synthesis. It carries the genetic instructions from the DNA in the cell nucleus to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm, where proteins are synthesized. mRNA is synthesized during the transcription process, and its sequence is translated into specific amino acids, forming the basis for protein production within cells. The structure and sequence of mRNA determine the nature and function of the proteins it helps to create.

Understanding the function of mRNA

Messenger RNA (messenger ribonucleic acid) is a type of RNA and a crucial molecule in gene expression and protein synthesis. It is a nucleic acid that consists of a single-stranded sequence of nucleotides and serves as a messenger, carrying genetic information – previously encoded in the process of transcription – from DNA to ribosomes in the cell's cytoplasm.¹ 

During translation, mRNA interacts with transfer RNA (tRNA) and ribosomes to facilitate protein production. The genetic code within mRNA molecules is translated into specific amino acids through codons.¹

Depending on the type of organism, the exact execution of this procedure can vary. One can distinguish between eukaryotic mRNA and prokaryotic mRNA. The main difference between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells in general lies in their structural organization and complexity. Eukaryotic cells, found in plants, animals, fungi, and protists, possess a membrane-bound nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles, and mRNA is subjected to more substantial transcriptional modifications. Meanwhile, prokaryotic cells, including bacteria and archaea, lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, existing as single-celled organisms with a simpler structure.² 

mRNA vaccines and therapeutics

mRNA (messenger RNA) has emerged as a revolutionary platform for vaccines and therapeutics. Harnessing the power of mRNA technology, scientists have developed RNA vaccines and therapeutics with remarkable potential.

mRNA (messenger RNA) interacts closely with the immune system, playing a significant role in immune responses. mRNA vaccines stimulate the immune system by delivering synthetic mRNA encoding specific antigens. This triggers the production of antibodies, which recognize and neutralize the targeted pathogen. The immune system also activates T cells, which further aid in immune defense.

Vaccines based on mRNA have gained prominence, particularly in the context of combating infectious diseases such as COVID-19 caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. mRNA vaccines work on the basis of synthetic mRNA molecules encoding specific antigens to stimulate an immune response (e.g. to the spike protein). These vaccines, like those developed by Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech during the COVID-19 pandemic, offer advantages in terms of speed, scalability, side effects and adaptability.

In the field of therapeutics, mRNA-based approaches hold immense promise. By introducing synthetic mRNA into cells, researchers can direct the production of therapeutic proteins, enabling treatment for various diseases. Furthermore, mRNA therapeutics have the potential to modulate immune responses. By introducing specific mRNA molecules, the production of immune-related proteins can be regulated, influencing immune system function and inflammation. This novel approach offers potential advantages such as personalized medicine, targeted therapies, and rapid development.

mRNA vaccines and therapeutics represent a paradigm shift in medical interventions. They leverage the cell's natural machinery to produce desired proteins, providing new avenues for preventive and therapeutic applications.

Advances in mRNA technology

Recent years have witnessed remarkable advancements in mRNA (messenger RNA) technology, revolutionizing the fields of medicine and biotechnology.

mRNA Vaccine Development – mRNA vaccines, such as those developed by Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech, have emerged as a game-changer in vaccine development. Their rapid development and effectiveness against infectious diseases, including COVID-19, demonstrate the potential of mRNA technology.

Personalized Medicine – mRNA technology offers the promise of personalized medicine. By tailoring mRNA sequences to individual patients, it becomes possible to develop therapies that specifically target their unique genetic setup.

mRNA Stability and Delivery – Scientists have made significant progress in enhancing the stability of mRNA molecules, enabling their efficient delivery to target cells. Techniques like controlled freezing of mRNA have paved the way for the development of mRNA-based therapies with improved effectiveness.

Sustainability – The integration of single-use technologies in mRNA manufacturing has facilitated streamlined and efficient production processes. Single-use bioreactors, mixers, and disposable systems can contribute to improved scalability, flexibility, cost-effectiveness and sustainability.

Read more: Pros & Cons of LNPs for mRNA delivery³ 

mRNA and single-use technologies: A perfect match

The advent of mRNA technology has ushered in a new era of medical advancements and biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Single-use technologies, mRNA-based therapies and vaccine production complement each other, revolutionizing the way we develop and deliver treatments.

mRNA offers the potential for personalized medicine, rapid vaccine development, and precise targeting of diseases. Meanwhile, single-use technologies offer the necessary tools for scalable, flexible, sustainable and cost-effective manufacturing processes.

With dedicated platform solutions by Single Use Support, mRNA manufacturing becomes streamlined, reducing the risk of cross-contamination, simplifying operations, and enabling faster turnaround times. The freeze-thaw platform based on plate freezing allows controlled freezing rates to preserve the structure of mRNA. Fluid management solutions in combination with single-use bags and bioprocessing containers, on the other hand, provide automated filling and aliquotation with a reduced risk of human error. These and more benefits make single-use technologies an integral component of mRNA production.