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Published on: July 26, 2019
Comparative immunologic profiling of mRNA and protein-conjugated vaccines: acute inflammatory responses and anti-PEG
Gahyun Roh1,2, Jisun Lee1, Hyun-Mee Park3
1Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea.
Abstract:
Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines have become a prevalent immunization method, even as the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic recedes. However, the potential adverse effects using mRNA vaccines need to be explored in this evolving landscape. In this study, 60 participants were randomly assigned to receive either an mRNA vaccine, specifically for COVID-19, or a conventional vaccine for meningococcal disease. Symptom records and blood samples were collected on Days 0, 3, and 7 after vaccination. Results showed that recipients of mRNA vaccines exhibited elevated levels of serum acute-phase proteins, such as haptoglobin and C-reactive protein, alongside decreased white blood cell counts compared to those receiving conventional vaccines. Proteomic analysis identified significant changes in nine proteins, including interactions involving complement component C9, haptoglobin, and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein, suggesting implications for complement activation and inflammatory responses. Furthermore, variability in anti-polyethylene glycol antibody levels was noted among mRNA vaccine recipients compared to conventional vaccine recipients. This research aims to provide useful information to help develop future vaccination strategies and shape research directions to mitigate individual adverse effects.
Insights
Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines show distinct immune responses compared to conventional vaccines. mRNA vaccine recipients had altered acute-phase proteins and white blood cell counts, indicating potential inflammatory changes.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
- Proteomics
Background:
- Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines are increasingly used for immunization, necessitating further investigation into their potential adverse effects.
- Understanding the immunological and systemic impacts of mRNA vaccines is crucial for public health and future vaccine development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the systemic effects of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines with conventional meningococcal vaccines.
- To identify specific protein changes and immune markers associated with mRNA vaccination.
Main Methods:
- A randomized study involving 60 participants receiving either an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine or a conventional meningococcal vaccine.
- Collection of symptom records and blood samples on Days 0, 3, and 7 post-vaccination.
- Analysis of serum proteomic profiles and antibody levels.
Main Results:
- mRNA vaccine recipients showed increased serum acute-phase proteins (haptoglobin, C-reactive protein) and decreased white blood cell counts.
- Proteomic analysis revealed significant changes in nine proteins, including those involved in complement activation (C9, haptoglobin, alpha-1-acid glycoprotein).
- Variability in anti-polyethylene glycol antibody levels was observed in mRNA vaccine recipients.
Conclusions:
- mRNA vaccination induces distinct systemic changes, including inflammatory markers and complement pathway alterations.
- These findings highlight the need for continued research into mRNA vaccine immunogenicity and safety.
- The study provides insights for optimizing future vaccine strategies and mitigating potential adverse effects.
