what is the mrna vaccine

An mRNA vaccine is a type of vaccine that uses messenger RNA (mRNA) to produce an immune response. Unlike traditional vaccines that use weakened or inactive parts of a virus, an mRNA vaccine delivers synthetic mRNA into cells. This mRNA contains instructions for the cells to produce a specific protein that is typically found on the surface of the virus (such as the spike protein in the case of COVID-19). Once the mRNA is inside the cells, the cells use their machinery to read the mRNA and make the viral protein. This protein then triggers the immune system to recognize it as foreign, prompting the body to produce antibodies and activate immune cells to fight the virus. The mRNA itself breaks down and does not enter the cell nucleus or alter the body's DNA. This approach allows the body to develop immunity without ever being exposed to the actual virus. mRNA vaccines can be developed more quickly than traditional vaccines and induce both antibody and cellular immune responses. Examples include the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines.