Call / Whatsapp
+918447748545

Published on: Jul 17, 2020
2 minute read
By: Dr Rajan Choudhary

MRNA Vaccine Against SARS CoV2

An mRNA Vaccine against SARS CoV2

We have previously discussed vaccines against SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. On the 14th of July, a preliminary study was published in the New England Journal of Medicine, an internationally reputable medical journal. This study looks at mRNA vaccines in Phase 1 human clinical trials, a first for the virus. Here we will discuss what this means and the results of the study.

mRNA vaccine

Vaccines target the immune system’s memory by presenting them with pieces of these infective diseases. The small amounts do not cause any infective symptoms, but if the person is infected later in life their body will mount a quicker response and prevent them from falling ill. These vaccines can contain broken up parts of the organisms, “dead” organisms or “live” versions that have been severely weakened so they cannot cause any harm.

In 2018 a new type of vaccine was described. Instead of using pre-made protein markers that identify infectious organisms, mRNA vaccines contain genetic material with instructions to produce these markers. Once injected, the person’s cells use these instructions to produce copies of these protein markers. These markers are displayed on the surface of the cell, which in turn is recognized by the immune system, initiating an immune response and producing protective antibodies.

BENEFITS

A major advantage of RNA vaccines is the ease by which they can be made in a laboratory from a DNA template. During a pandemic, this would result in a rapid response and vaccine against a new disease. Conventional vaccines require the use of chicken eggs or cells to produce the vaccines, which can be expensive and time-consuming. These vaccines can be delivered via injections into the skin, blood, muscle, or organs, needle-free into the skin, or via nasal spray. Because these vaccines are so new, we still do not know the best way to deliver it.

Because these vaccines are not made with parts of infective organisms or from live organisms, they are not infectious and will not cause harm through a strong immune response to the vaccine itself, or by causing the disease they aim to vaccinate against. They also appear to be very efficient at generating a reliable immune response to produce antibodies and are well tolerated with few side effects.

NEEDS IMPROVEMENT

Because these types of vaccines are so new there is still a lot we do not understand about them. They may cause unintended effects that we have not yet encountered in human clinical studies. These vaccines also need to be frozen or refrigerated, and so would not be suitable for countries with limited or no refrigeration facilities.

COVID

The SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine codes for one of the virus’ surface spike proteins, responsible for recognizing target cells and fusing the virus into the cell for entry and infection. It was previously recognized as a target for the SARS and MERS viruses.

45 participants received 2 intramuscular injections 28 days apart. None of the participants had any serious side effects after the first injection, or any side effects significant enough to stop the trial. Many had minor to moderate side effects after their second injection (such as fatigue, chills, headache, myalgia, and pain at the injection site), and half the participants taking high dose vaccines had febrile side effects. Overall the side effects were rated as acceptable.

Prior to the vaccine trials, none of the participants had any antibodies against COVID, or any capacity to stop a COIVD infection. After the injections, all participants had noticeable increases in antibodies produced, measurable in their blood. After 43 days, the participant's blood had enough antibodies to reduce infection by SARS-CoV-2 by over 80%.

What is the takeaway? The vaccine is capable of producing an adequate response to protect the vaccine recipient without eliciting any major side effects. These results will be used in phase 2 clinical trials (enrolment began in May) and a phase 3 trial in July 2020. Essentially this means further human trials to further look for side effects in a larger number of volunteers with a more diverse health profile.

This represents an interesting development in producing a rapid vaccine against a new virus responsible for a world-changing pandemic. This new type of vaccine may be the future of vaccines for a broader range of viruses, bacteria, and even cancers.

Read Blog

When to Take Vitamin B12 Test – Signs to Look For

Vitamin B12 is one of the most essential vitamins for the body. It plays a major role in making red blood cells, maintaining nerve function, and supporting brain health. Unlike other vitamins, your body cannot produce Vitamin B12 on its own. It mainly comes from animal-based foods like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy.

In India, Vitamin B12 deficiency is very common, especially among vegetarians and vegans. Unfortunately, the symptoms are often ignored or mistaken for general tiredness or stress. This makes it important to recognize when to take a Vitamin B12 test so that treatment can start before complications arise.

Why is Vitamin B12 Important?

Vitamin B12 helps in:

Producing red blood cells
Preventing anemia
Supporting brain and memory functions
Keeping nerves healthy
Boosting energy levels

A deficiency can cause long-term health problems if not treated on time.

Key Signs You Need a Vitamin B12 Test

1. Constant Fatigue and Weakness

If you feel tired even after proper sleep, it could be due to low Vitamin B12. This happens because your body cannot produce enough healthy red blood cells, leading to less oxygen supply to tissues.

2. Numbness or Tingling Sensations

Vitamin B12 supports nerve health. Deficiency can cause nerve damage, leading to tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.

3. Memory Problems and Brain Fog

Difficulty in concentrating, forgetfulness, or confusion can be early signs of low Vitamin B12 levels.

4. Mood Swings and Depression

Low Vitamin B12 affects neurotransmitters that regulate mood. You may feel anxious, irritable, or even depressed.

5. Pale or Yellowish Skin

Since B12 deficiency causes anemia, your skin may appear pale or slightly yellow.

6. Unexplained Muscle Weakness

Weak muscles and difficulty walking can also be due to prolonged deficiency.

Who Should Get Tested?

Vegetarians and vegans (as B12 mainly comes from animal foods)
People above 50 years (absorption decreases with age)
Individuals with digestive disorders like Crohn’s or celiac disease
People who have undergone gastric surgery
Those taking long-term medications like metformin or antacids

How is the Vitamin B12 Test Done?

The Vitamin B12 test is a simple blood test. A small sample is taken from your vein and analyzed in the lab. No fasting is required unless your doctor suggests additional tests along with it.

Can Vitamin B12 Deficiency Be Treated?

Yes. Once diagnosed, treatment can be done in three ways:

Dietary changes – Eating more eggs, dairy, fish, or fortified cereals.
Supplements – Oral Vitamin B12 tablets or capsules.
Injections – For severe deficiency, doctors may recommend B12 injections.

Preventing Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Include B12-rich foods in your diet
If you’re vegetarian, choose fortified cereals and plant-based milk
Go for regular check-ups if you’re at risk
Discuss supplements with your doctor if needed

Conclusion

Vitamin B12 deficiency can easily be overlooked, but the symptoms often give early warnings. If you experience fatigue, numbness, mood changes, or memory issues, it may be time to book a Vitamin B12 test. Early detection ensures timely treatment and prevents long-term complications.

Don’t ignore your health—book your Vitamin B12 test today and take control of your well-being.

Request A Callback

+91

By using this website/app, I confirm that I am at least 18 years old and consent to the processing of my personal data in accordance with the Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Declaration.