mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines—Facts and Hypotheses on Fragmentation and Encapsulation
Abstract: Background: The adventure of the mRNA vaccine began thirty years ago in the context of influenza. This consisted in encapsulating the mRNA coding for a viral protein in a lipid particle.
We show how the mRNA encoding S protein has been modified for that purpose in the context of
the anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Results: by using data coming from genetic and epidemiologic
databases, we show the theoretical possibility of fragmentation of this mRNA into small RNA se-
quences capable of inhibiting important bio-syntheses such as the production of beta-globin. Dis-
cussion: we discuss two aspects related to mRNA vaccine: (i) the plausibility of mRNA fragmenta-
tion, and (ii) the role of liposomal nanoparticles (LNPs) used in the vaccine and their impact on
mRNA biodistribution. Conclusion: we insist on the need to develop lipid nanoparticles allowing
personalized administration of vaccines and avoiding adverse effects due to mRNA fragmentation
and inefficient biodistribution. Hence, we recommend (i) adapting the mRNA of vaccines to the
least mutated virus proteins and (ii) personalizing its administration to the categories of chronic
patients at risk most likely to suffer from adverse effects.
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-393X/11/1/40