mRNA-based cancer vaccines are entering a pivotal research phase, with early trial data pointing to durable immune responses across several tumor types.
But the same platform now faces a wave of public mistrust that researchers worry could slow its progress.
In a recent article by Oncology Nurse Advisor, the publication surveyed researchers on the state of mRNA cancer vaccine research, from early-phase trials to durable survival benefits seen in melanoma. Richard H. Hughes IV, Member of the Firm in the Health Care & Life Sciences practice of Epstein Becker Green, contributed his perspective on a related concern: growing public skepticism toward mRNA technology as a whole.
The article linked that skepticism to a shift in federal research priorities, including scrutiny of mRNA research at the National Institutes of Health and the cancellation of federal contracts for mRNA vaccines. Researchers quoted in the piece said hostility toward COVID-19 mRNA vaccines has spread into public attitudes about mRNA science generally, and worried it could extend to cancer vaccines next. Richard, who also serves as lead counsel in litigation challenging federal restrictions on COVID-19 vaccine access, connected that erosion of trust directly to the future of cancer vaccine development.
"I think the fact that we're seeing this denigration of the platform, that's a problem for cancer vaccine development," Hughes said.
Get in Touch
To discuss this perspective, contact Richard Hughes at RHHughes@ebglaw.com.
