What is an mRNA vaccine?

Dec 03, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
mRNA vaccines are biological agents that involve the artificial synthesis of messenger RNA encoding specific antigens of a pathogen. When injected into the body, they instruct cells to produce the antigen, thereby stimulating the immune system to generate antibodies and immune memory, ultimately providing protection against the target disease. If severe allergic reactions or persistent discomfort occur after vaccination, medical attention should be sought promptly.

mRNA vaccines are biological preparations that prevent targeted diseases by artificially synthesizing messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) encoding specific antigens of pathogens. Once injected into the body, this mRNA directs cells to produce the antigen, thereby stimulating the immune system to generate antibodies and immune memory. If severe allergic reactions or persistent discomfort occur after vaccination, medical attention should be sought promptly.

Unlike traditional methods, mRNA vaccines do not require cultivation of whole pathogens. Instead, they only need precise synthesis of the antigen-encoding sequence, resulting in shorter production cycles and high research and development flexibility, enabling rapid responses to emerging pathogen variants. Their mechanism of action involves entering human cells and using the cell's own ribosomes to synthesize antigenic proteins. These proteins are recognized by the immune system, triggering a specific immune response and establishing long-term protection.

These vaccines contain neither live nor inactivated pathogens, thus offering high safety. Adverse reactions are mostly mild, such as redness and swelling at the injection site or low-grade fever, and are typically short-lived. Additionally, due to precise antigen expression and strong immunogenicity, mRNA vaccines can induce the body to produce high levels of protective antibodies, resulting in显著 preventive efficacy.

After vaccination, keep the injection site clean and dry, avoid vigorous friction, follow a light and easily digestible diet, avoid spicy or irritating foods, ensure adequate sleep, avoid excessive fatigue, and engage moderately in gentle exercises such as walking. These measures help the body better adapt to the vaccine and enhance immune response.