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Adverse effects of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines: the spike hypothesis

Ioannis P Trougakos1, Evangelos Terpos2, Harry Alexopoulos1

  • 1Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, 157 84, Greece.

Trends in Molecular Medicine
|May 10, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines are vital for controlling COVID-19, but potential adverse effects (AEs) warrant further investigation into their cellular and molecular origins to ensure vaccine safety and guide public health policies.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Vaccinology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines are critical tools in combating the COVID-19 pandemic, significantly reducing mortality.
  • Reported adverse effects (AEs) following mRNA vaccination suggest potential links to vaccine components or the expressed spike protein.
  • Existing data on vaccine-induced AEs primarily comes from in vitro studies and animal models.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying adverse effects associated with mRNA COVID-19 vaccines.
  • To explore the role of lipid nanoparticles and mRNA formulation in vaccine-induced inflammation.
  • To examine the impact of the spike protein and its fragments on human tissues and potential AEs.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on mRNA vaccine technology and reported adverse events.
  • Analysis of cell-based assays and data from model organisms investigating vaccine components.
  • Exploration of the immunological and molecular profiles of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.

Main Results:

  • Adverse effects may stem from the inherent proinflammatory properties of lipid nanoparticles or mRNA.
  • The expression, binding characteristics, and inflammatory potential of the produced spike protein in human tissues are critical factors.
  • Current understanding is limited by the predominant use of non-human models and in vitro systems.

Conclusions:

  • Further research into the cellular and molecular basis of mRNA vaccine AEs is essential.
  • Understanding these mechanisms will enhance vaccine safety and inform public health strategies.
  • Continued investigation is key to maintaining public trust in vaccination campaigns.
Keywords:
COVID-19SARS-CoV-2adverse effectslipid nanoparticlemRNA vaccinespike protein

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