US Halts $500M in mRNA Vaccine Research
Experts Warn of Setback for Future Pandemics and Cancers
The U.S. government has abruptly ceased funding for half a billion dollars worth of research into novel mRNA vaccines. The move, announced by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a vocal critic of vaccines, has sent shockwaves through the scientific community.
“Co-ordinated Wind-Down” Sparks Alarm
In a statement this week, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. declared a “co-ordinated wind-down,” effectively canceling significant investment in mRNA vaccine development through the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA). This decision directly impacts a technology widely celebrated for its role in combating the COVID-19 pandemic.
The groundbreaking nature of mRNA technology was recognized when its developers, Dr. Drew Weissman and Dr. Katalin Karikó, were awarded the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. The Nobel committee lauded their discoveries for enabling the creation of COVID-19 vaccines, credited with saving millions of lives and facilitating global societal reopening.
Speed and Adaptability of mRNA Praised
Infectious disease experts have expressed dismay, highlighting mRNA technology’s unparalleled speed in developing vaccines compared to traditional methods. This rapid production capability is crucial for swift responses to emerging pandemic threats.
Michael Osterholm, an expert in pandemic preparedness at the University of Minnesota, noted the stark contrast: “By the end of the first year, we could vaccinate the world” using mRNA for a pandemic flu strain, a feat that would take 18 months for even a fraction of the global population with older technologies.
Dr. Allison McGeer, an infectious disease specialist in Toronto, also emphasized the advantages of mRNA vaccines, stating, “It has a whole lot of other flexibilities that if you know it works, makes it a really exciting addition” to existing vaccine platforms. She also pointed out their ease of standardization.
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has cancelled $500 million in funding for the development of mRNA vaccine technology. For The National, CBC’s Heather Hiscox asks infectious disease specialist Dr. Allison McGeer and health researcher Bradley Wouters to break down what kind of impact this could have on fighting disease in Canada and around the world.
Broad Applications Beyond COVID-19
The utility of mRNA technology extends far beyond COVID-19 vaccines. It is already incorporated into a Health Canada-approved vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
An mRNA influenza vaccine is currently in Phase 3 clinical trials, the final stage before regulatory submission. Moreover, research is actively exploring mRNA’s potential in oncology, with over 100 clinical trials investigating its efficacy against various cancers, including lung, breast, prostate, melanoma, and pancreatic cancer.
Dr. Peter Hotez, a professor at Baylor College of Medicine, voiced concerns that the funding cut could stifle innovation. “The mRNA technology is looking really exciting for next-generation cancer immunotherapeutics,” he commented, questioning if this will “throw cold water on a whole big effort that we’re pursuing as well.”
Early-stage research also explores mRNA-based vaccines for HIV and autoimmune diseases, underscoring the broad therapeutic potential being curtailed.
RFK Jr.’s Claims Under Scrutiny
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. justified the funding withdrawal by claiming mRNA vaccines pose “more risk than benefits against these respiratory viruses.” He also asserted that the technology “paradoxically encourage[s] new mutations and can actually prolong pandemics.”
After reviewing the science and consulting with top U.S. experts, HHS has determined that mRNA technology poses more risks than benefits against these respiratory viruses. This administration will continue to prioritize safety and efficacy. https://t.co/3IysN1sW7O
— Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (@SecKennedy) June 4, 2024
However, virologist Angela Rasmussen of the University of Saskatchewan refuted these claims, explaining, “Viruses mutate when they replicate, and they replicate when they spread through a population of people. The best way to prevent a virus from spreading through a population of people is to make sure those people are protected against the virus by vaccination.”
Dr. Peter Hotez further criticized Kennedy‘s characterization of COVID-19 and influenza as mere “upper respiratory infections,” stating this misrepresentation aims “to downplay the severity of these illnesses.” Unlike the common cold, these diseases can cause significant cardiovascular and other health complications.
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a longtime vaccine critic, claimed this week that mRNA vaccines can prolong pandemics. Angela Rasmussen, a virologist at the University of Saskatchewan, explains why mRNA vaccines actually help to shorten pandemics.
Global Impact and Future Access
While other nations are engaged in mRNA research, Hotez highlighted the U.S.’s position as the largest vaccine market. He suggested that the funding cut could discourage pharmaceutical companies from pursuing this technology, fearing a lack of market demand.
The U.S. remains committed to providing vaccines to its citizens, with existing flu vaccines manufactured through traditional methods. However, experts emphasize that mRNA vaccines themselves have demonstrated high efficacy, with estimates suggesting that COVID-19 mRNA vaccines saved 3.2 million American lives during the pandemic alone.
