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The ReNAissanCe of mRNA-based cancer therapy
Sandra Van Lint1, Dries Renmans, Katrijn Broos
1Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Medical School of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, B-1090 Jette, Belgium.
Abstract:
About 25 years ago, mRNA became a tool of interest in anticancer vaccination approaches. However, due to its rapid degradation in situ, direct application of mRNA was confronted with considerable skepticism during its early use. Consequently, mRNA was for a long time mainly used for the ex vivo transfection of dendritic cells, professional antigen-presenting cells known to stimulate immunity. The interest in direct application of mRNA experienced a revival, as researchers became aware of the many advantages mRNA offers. Today, mRNA is considered to be an ideal vehicle for the induction of strong immune responses against cancer. The growing numbers of preclinical trials and as a consequence the increasing clinical application of mRNA as an off-the-shelf anticancer vaccine signifies a renaissance for transcript-based antitumor therapy. In this review, we highlight this renaissance using a timeline providing all milestones in the application of mRNA for anticancer vaccination.
Insights
Messenger RNA (mRNA) has resurged as a powerful tool for anticancer vaccines. Advances have overcome early limitations, enabling direct mRNA application for robust antitumor immune responses.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Messenger RNA (mRNA) emerged as a potential anticancer vaccine strategy approximately 25 years ago.
- Early challenges included rapid in situ degradation, limiting mRNA use primarily to ex vivo dendritic cell transfection.
- A resurgence in interest was driven by recognizing mRNA's advantages for direct in vivo application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical development and milestones of mRNA in anticancer vaccination.
- To highlight the current renaissance of mRNA-based antitumor therapy.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes information on the application of mRNA for anticancer vaccination.
- A timeline approach is used to illustrate key advancements.
Main Results:
- mRNA is now recognized as an ideal platform for inducing potent anti-cancer immune responses.
- Increasing preclinical and clinical applications demonstrate mRNA's efficacy as an off-the-shelf vaccine.
Conclusions:
- mRNA-based cancer vaccines represent a significant advancement in antitumor immunotherapy.
- The historical trajectory shows a successful transition from ex vivo to direct in vivo mRNA vaccination strategies.
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