WHO launches new initiative to advance mRNA vaccine development against human avian influenza (H5N1) | Current Affairs | Vision IAS
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WHO launches new initiative to advance mRNA vaccine development against human avian influenza (H5N1)

Posted 01 Aug 2024

2 min read

 

Initiative aims to accelerate the development and accessibility of H5N1 messenger Ribonucleic Acid (mRNA) vaccine candidates for manufacturers in low- and middle-income countries(LMICs).

  • This will done through mRNA Technology Transfer Programme (MTTP) of WHO, which will supplement the ongoing work under the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework.
    • PIP aim is to improve and strengthen the sharing of influenza viruses with human pandemic potential and increasing LMIC access to vaccines.
  • Significance: Promoting vaccine equity and preparation for next pandemic in decentralized way
Diagram illustrating the mRNA vaccine process. Steps include mRNA synthesis, packaging into lipid nanoparticles, formulation, transportation, and vaccination. Depicts mRNA release into cells, translation into Spike protein, and immune response with antibody production.

About mRNA Vaccine technology 

 

  • mRNA vaccines work by introducing a piece of mRNA that corresponds to a viral protein, usually a small piece of a protein found on the virus’s outer membrane. 
    • mRNA is a genetic molecule that contains instructions or recipe that directs cells to make a protein using its natural machinery.
  • This mRNA prompts cells to create viral proteins, triggering the immune system to produce antibodies and boost immune system.
  • For e.g. mRNA vaccine for COVID-19 directs cells to produce copies of a protein on the outside of the coronavirus known as the “spike protein”
  • Tags :
  • WHO
  • mRNA Vaccine
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