The report recommends a framework to assess the value of mRNA technology in developing vaccines and therapeutics against other infectious diseases. A framework could also help establish the technology’s potential role in addressing cancer and autoimmune diseases.

To inform such a framework, the report maps out the clinical trial status of mRNA vaccines in the most advanced stages of development. While the COVID-19 vaccines are the only safe and efficacious preventive mRNA vaccines developed and approved for human use to date, mRNA vaccines against cytomegalovirus (a common virus that can threaten babies and those with a weakened immune system), influenza A and B, and RSV are in Phase 3 trials. There is also on-going discovery work in tuberculosis, malaria, HIV as well as noncommunicable diseases.

The report also calls for further research to address the potential of this technology as well as its limitations. Improving the stability of mRNA vaccines at higher temperatures should be a key target of investment and research efforts. Another key recommendation is ensuring end-to-end development and access by way of investment and applying lessons from COVID-19 initiatives, such as the ACT-Accelerator, which worked to secure access to COVID-19 tests, treatments, and vaccines.