The mRNA revolution continues as scientists now focus on lung cancer after the success of mRNA vaccines against COVID-19. The first-of-its-kind mRNA vaccine, BTN116, developed by BioNTech, is in phase 1 clinical trials in seven countries. It is designed to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the most common form of the disease. Medical oncologist Siow Ming Lee, from University College London Hospitals (UCHL), leading the trial in the UK, believes this vaccine, using mRNA technology, can bring hope to lung cancer patients worldwide, providing a better outcome. The vaccine identifies and targets cancer cells, working alongside other lung cancer treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy. In the US, patients at both early and late stages of the disease are being recruited for the trials. The mRNA COVID-19 vaccine’s success has shown promise for cancer patients as well, reducing mortality rates. This mRNA technology has evolved over decades but gained widespread recognition due to the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines. By training the immune system to target and fight cancer cells, this technology could be a significant advance in cancer treatment. Lee explains that the lung cancer vaccine development began four years ago following the successful development of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine. Lee emphasizes that the mRNA vaccine must be used in conjunction with other treatments like chemotherapy depending on the severity of the cancer. Clinical trials have begun, with participants receiving multiple doses to eradicate cancer and prevent recurrence. The long-term goal is to kickstart this vaccine research with the same success as the COVID-19 vaccine.
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