Scientists are developing an experimental mRNA therapy that in the future could protect people against nearly all viruses. Studies conducted on rodents indicate that the developed treatment prevents replication of the influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2, as well as mitigates the course of the disease. The research findings were published in the journal Science Translational Medicine (DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adx5758). 

The inspiration for creating a universal drug came from the discovery of a rare genetic mutation affecting the immune regulator ISG15. While initially thought to increase susceptibility to bacterial infections, further observations showed that people deficient in ISG15 do not contract viral diseases despite exposure to various pathogens. 

The team led by Professor Dusan Bogunovic, an immunologist at Columbia University, designed a therapy that temporarily mimics the natural immune mechanism observed in individuals with the ISG15 mutation. Unlike traditional mRNA vaccines, the new preparation uses lipid nanoparticles containing ten mRNAs that encode ten proteins responsible for broad antiviral protection. Once delivered into the body’s cells, these proteins activate defense mechanisms that effectively inhibit virus replication. 

Researchers see this therapy as a potential tool in combating future pandemics, including situations where the identity of a new virus is unknown. Importantly, the drug’s mechanism does not interfere with the formation of natural immune memory and therefore does not prevent the development of long-term immunity.