An mRNA Vaccine Could One Day Protect Against Sun-Induced Skin Cancer
Source: IFL Science, January 2022
New research suggests an mRNA vaccine could potentially increase protection from damage caused by UV radiation, dramatically reducing melanoma risk.
Following the overwhelming success of mRNA vaccine technology in fighting COVID-19, scientists have begun utilizing the technology to fight a variety of other health conditions. Current vaccines in the pipeline include mRNA vaccines against colon cancer, a potential vaccine against Lyme disease, and even HIV, and the results so far are extremely promising.
By bolstering the production of a protein involved in the skin’s antioxidant system, a team from Oregon State University College of Pharmacy believes recipients of the vaccine could minimize the risk of UV-induced skin cancer and other conditions.
“Despite efforts to improve public awareness about the warning signs of melanoma and the dangers of excess exposure to UV radiation, the incidence of melanoma continues to rise,” Arup Indra, professor of pharmaceutical sciences at OSU and lead author, said in a statement.