The 2023 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine has been awarded to Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman for their groundbreaking research on how mRNA interacts with the immune system. Their work has played a crucial role in the development of mRNA vaccines, including those used against COVID-19.
Karikó and Weissman were recognized for their efforts in chemically modifying strands of mRNA, making it possible to use them in vaccines. This technology was licensed by biotech companies Moderna and BioNTech, who collaborated with Pfizer to create the mRNA vaccines widely used in high-income countries.
mRNA, or messenger RNA, is a molecule that transports genetic information from DNA to ribosomes, the cell's protein-making factories. Karikó and Weissman discovered a way to modify synthetic mRNA to resemble the naturally occurring version produced by mammalian cells, thus avoiding immune rejection.
In the case of COVID-19 vaccines, the mRNA contains instructions for producing the spike protein found on the surface of the coronavirus. When a person receives the vaccine, their cells produce this protein, triggering an immune response.
The Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech vaccines were initially successful in preventing COVID-19 infections. However, they have shown reduced effectiveness against the omicron variant of the virus, which emerged in late 2021. Nevertheless, these vaccines still provide protection against severe illness and death.
Many countries have recently launched booster campaigns in preparation for a potential winter surge of the virus. There is ongoing debate about whether boosters should be offered to the general population or only to those who are more vulnerable.
The mRNA COVID-19 vaccines have had a significant impact on society, preventing countless deaths and allowing societies to reopen, according to Thomas Perlmann, the Secretary of the Nobel Committee for Physiology or Medicine. Perlmann also highlighted the potential of mRNA technology for rapidly developing vaccines against new viruses and its investigation as a potential treatment for cancer.
In conclusion, Karikó and Weissman's work on mRNA and its application in vaccines has been recognized with the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. Their research has paved the way for the development of COVID-19 vaccines and holds promise for future vaccine development and potential cancer treatments.