Call
+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

Benefits of Daily Stretching for Body Health: Improve Flexibility and Wellness

In today’s sedentary lifestyle, long hours of sitting, minimal physical activity and high screen exposure contribute to muscle stiffness and poor posture. Incorporating a simple daily stretching routine can significantly improve physical wellbeing.

Understanding the benefits of daily stretching for body health encourages individuals to adopt this easy yet powerful habit.

What Is Stretching?

Stretching involves gently elongating muscles to improve flexibility and range of motion. It can be:

Static stretching (holding a stretch)
Dynamic stretching (controlled movement)
Active stretching (using your own muscle strength)

Regular stretching maintains muscle elasticity and joint mobility.

1. Improves Flexibility

Daily stretching increases muscle length and joint flexibility.

Improved flexibility helps:

Perform daily tasks easily
Reduce stiffness
Enhance athletic performance

Flexibility tends to decline with age, making stretching essential.

2. Reduces Muscle Tension

Muscle tightness is common due to prolonged sitting or stress.

Stretching helps:

Relieve tension
Reduce soreness
Ease discomfort

This is particularly beneficial for office workers.

3. Enhances Posture

Poor posture often results from tight chest, shoulder and hip muscles.

Regular stretching:

Aligns spine
Relieves back strain
Reduces neck pain

Improved posture supports long-term spinal health.

4. Boosts Blood Circulation

Stretching increases blood flow to muscles.

Better circulation:

Delivers oxygen efficiently
Promotes faster recovery
Supports overall organ function

5. Reduces Risk of Injury

Flexible muscles and joints are less prone to strains and sprains.

Stretching prepares muscles for physical activity and prevents sudden injury.

6. Improves Joint Mobility

Joint stiffness may develop due to inactivity.

Stretching maintains joint lubrication and mobility, reducing discomfort.

7. Supports Mental Relaxation

Stretching, especially when combined with deep breathing, reduces stress.

It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation.

8. Helps Manage Back Pain

Lower back pain is common among sedentary individuals.

Stretching the:

Hamstrings
Hip flexors
Lower back muscles

can relieve pressure on the spine.

9. Enhances Athletic Performance

Athletes benefit from improved flexibility and range of motion.

Dynamic stretching before exercise prepares muscles for performance.

10. Promotes Healthy Aging

As people age, muscle elasticity decreases.

Daily stretching supports mobility, independence and fall prevention in older adults.

Simple Daily Stretching Routine

A basic routine may include:

Neck stretches
Shoulder rolls
Hamstring stretches
Calf stretches
Quadriceps stretches
Back stretches

Hold each stretch for 15–30 seconds without bouncing.

Consistency matters more than intensity.

Stretching in the Indian Context

Urban lifestyles and desk jobs have increased musculoskeletal complaints among Indian adults.

Incorporating stretching into daily routine can significantly reduce workplace-related body pain and stiffness.

Even 10–15 minutes each morning or evening can improve overall wellbeing.

Safety Tips

Warm up slightly before stretching
Avoid overstretching
Breathe normally during stretches
Stop if sharp pain occurs

Consult a healthcare professional if you have existing injuries.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Seek evaluation if you experience:

Persistent muscle pain
Limited joint mobility
Recurrent muscle injuries
Severe back pain

Professional guidance ensures safe practice.

Conclusion

The benefits of daily stretching for body health extend beyond flexibility. Regular stretching reduces muscle tension, improves posture, enhances circulation and supports mental relaxation.

Incorporating simple stretching exercises into daily routine promotes long-term musculoskeletal health and overall wellness.

Small daily movements create lasting improvements. A few minutes of stretching each day can make a significant difference in how your body feels and functions.

Healthy movement supports a healthy life.

References

Indian Journal of Orthopaedics – Musculoskeletal Health Research
World Health Organization – Physical Activity Guidelines
National Institute of Nutrition India – Lifestyle Health Reports
American College of Sports Medicine – Stretching Recommendations
Journal of Sports Medicine – Flexibility and Injury Prevention Studies

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.