mRNA - A game changer in regenerative medicine, cell-based therapy and reprogramming strategies

After thirty years of intensive research shaping and optimizing the technology, the approval of the first mRNA-based formulation by the EMA and FDA in order to stop the COVID-19 pandemic was a break-through in mRNA research. The astonishing success of these vaccines have brought the mRNA platform into the spotlight of the scientific community. The remarkable persistence of the groundwork is mainly attributed to the exceptional benefits of mRNA application, including the biological origin, immediate but transitory mechanism of action, non-integrative properties, safe and relatively simple manufacturing as well as the flexibility to produce any desired protein. Based on these advantages, a practical implemen-tation of in vitro transcribed mRNA has been considered in most areas of medicine. In this review, we dis-cuss the key preconditions for the rise of the mRNA in the medical field, including the unique structural and functional features of the mRNA molecule and its vehicles, which are crucial aspects for a production of potent mRNA-based therapeutics. Further, we focus on the utility of mRNA tools particularly in the scope of regenerative medicine, i.e. cell reprogramming approaches or manipulation strategies for tar -geted tissue restoration. Finally, we highlight the strong clinical potential but also the remaining hurdles to overcome for the mRNA-based regenerative therapy, which is only a few steps away from becoming a reality. (c) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The approval of the first mRNA-based formulation to combat the COVID-19 pandemic marked a breakthrough in mRNA research, highlighting its benefits such as biological origin, safety, simple manufacturing, and potential applications in various medical fields, especially in regenerative medicine. Further research is needed to fully realize the clinical potential of mRNA-based regenerative therapies, but it is only a few steps away from becoming a reality.