Effectiveness and Safety of mRNA Vaccines in the Therapy of Glioblastoma

Scientific paper - Original scientific paper

• Author: Zdeslav Strika
• Author: Karlo Petković
• Author: Robert Likić
• Author's institution: University of Zagreb; School of Medicine; (Department of Internal Medicine)
• Scientific / art field, discipline and subdiscipline: BIOMEDICINE AND HEALTHCARE; Clinical Medical Sciences; Internal Medicine

Abstract (english)

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and most malignant primary brain tumor, presenting significant treatment challenges due to its heterogeneity, invasiveness, and resistance to conventional therapies. Despite aggressive treatment protocols, the prognosis remains poor, with a median survival time of approximately 15 months. Recent advancements in mRNA vaccine technology, particularly the development of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), have revitalized interest in mRNA-based therapies. These vaccines offer unique advantages, including rapid production, personalization based on tumor-specific mutations, and a strong induction of both humoral and cellular immune responses. mRNA vaccines have demonstrated potential in preclinical models, showing significant tumor regression and improved survival rates. Early-phase clinical trials have indicated that mRNA vaccines are safe and can induce robust immune responses in GBM patients. Combining mRNA vaccines with other immunotherapeutic approaches, such as checkpoint inhibitors, has shown synergistic effects, further enhancing their efficacy. However, challenges such as optimizing delivery systems and overcoming the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment remain. Future research should focus on addressing these challenges and exploring combination therapies to maximize therapeutic benefits. Large-scale, randomized clinical trials are essential to validate the efficacy and safety of mRNA vaccines in GBM therapy. The potential to reshape the tumor microenvironment and establish long-term immunological memory underscores the transformative potential of mRNA vaccines in cancer immunotherapy.

• Keywords (english): cancer immunotherapy; glioblastoma; lipid nanoparticles; mRNA vaccines; tumor microenvironment
• Language: english
• Publication type: Scientific paper - Original scientific paper
• Publication status: Published
• Peer review: Peer review
• Publication version: Published version
• Journal title: Journal of Personalized Medicine
• Numbering: vol. 14, no. 9, 993
• e-ISSN: 2075-4426
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14090993
• URN:NBN: urn:nbn:hr:105:731583
• Publication: 2024-09-19
• Document URL: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4426/14/9/993
• Type of resource: Text
• Access conditions: Open access
• Created on: 2025-03-19 15:01:00