08 February 2024 | Botond Z. Igyártó* and Zhen Qin
The article discusses the safety and efficacy concerns surrounding mRNA-LNP (messenger RNA with lipid nanoparticles) vaccines, which have been widely used in Western countries to combat COVID-19. Initially deemed safe and effective, recent data raise serious concerns about their safety and effectiveness. The authors review the potential mechanisms behind adverse events and suggest that the inflammatory nature of the lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and the presence of contaminants like double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) may contribute to these issues. They also highlight the need for stricter purity criteria and independent oversight of pharmaceutical companies. The article further addresses concerns about the mRNA's potential to integrate into the human genome and the vaccine's ability to suppress immune responses, leading to a semi-immunodeficient state. The authors propose several solutions, including making the ionizable lipid biodegradable and adjusting the mRNA's half-life to prevent chronic antigen stimulation. They emphasize the importance of rigorous pre-clinical studies and transparent communication to rebuild trust in the scientific process.The article discusses the safety and efficacy concerns surrounding mRNA-LNP (messenger RNA with lipid nanoparticles) vaccines, which have been widely used in Western countries to combat COVID-19. Initially deemed safe and effective, recent data raise serious concerns about their safety and effectiveness. The authors review the potential mechanisms behind adverse events and suggest that the inflammatory nature of the lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and the presence of contaminants like double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) may contribute to these issues. They also highlight the need for stricter purity criteria and independent oversight of pharmaceutical companies. The article further addresses concerns about the mRNA's potential to integrate into the human genome and the vaccine's ability to suppress immune responses, leading to a semi-immunodeficient state. The authors propose several solutions, including making the ionizable lipid biodegradable and adjusting the mRNA's half-life to prevent chronic antigen stimulation. They emphasize the importance of rigorous pre-clinical studies and transparent communication to rebuild trust in the scientific process.