Washington, D.C., October 20, 2025—A new study led by researchers at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and the University of Florida found mRNA vaccines enhance the effectiveness of certain cancer treatments by stimulating stronger immune responses, significantly increasing survival rates. The research is the latest to document the power of mRNA medicines to help fight disease and improve health outcomes.
“This study marks an exciting milestone for the future of mRNA science and the fight against cancer,” said Dr. Jeff Coller, Bloomberg Distinguished Professor of RNA Biology and Therapeutics at Johns Hopkins University. “It shows that mRNA—one of the body’s most natural components—can boost the ability of our own natural immune systems to treat cancer more effectively. The idea that an mRNA vaccine could make tumors more responsive to therapy, and dramatically extend patient survival, brings us closer to a future where all cancers are manageable diseases and no longer a burden to society.”
“The results of this study show the powerful potential of mRNA to transform how we treat complex diseases,” said Clay Alspach, Executive Director at the Alliance for mRNA Medicines. “For decades, we’ve talked about curing cancer—and today, thanks in part to the promise of mRNA, we’re making real progress toward that goal. This study is also a timely reminder of why continued investment in mRNA research is so important. We can’t turn our backs on a field of research that holds the potential to transform the course of cancer and other deadly diseases—and improve the lives of patients.”
Background:
The newly-released study found that COVID-19 mRNA vaccines may significantly enhance the effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) in cancer treatment by activating the release of Type 1 interferon, supercharging the body’s key immune responses. Patients with non-small cell lung cancer who received the mRNA vaccine within 100 days of starting ICI therapy had a median overall survival of 37.3 months, nearly double that of unvaccinated patients (20.6 months). Three-year survival rates were also markedly better: 55.8% for vaccinated patients compared to 30.6% for those unvaccinated. Similar benefits were also observed in melanoma patients. The research was supported in part by the National Cancer Institute (NCI).
For more information about the study, click here.
To schedule an interview with Dr. Coller and Mr. Alspach, please email [email protected].
Alliance for mRNA Medicines (AMM)
The Alliance for mRNA Medicines (AMM) is the leading global organization dedicated to advancing and advocating for mRNA and next generation encoding RNA therapeutics and vaccines for the benefit of patients, public health, and society. Our mission is to propel the future of mRNA medicine, improve patients’ lives, and advance scientific knowledge by convening and empowering mRNA industry leaders, innovators, scientists, and other key stakeholders. Learn more at https://mrnamedicines.org
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