THE CHALLENGES FACED IN MAKING A VACCINE FOR COVID-19 — Part 2

Previously we’ve seen the difficulties researches face in trying to make a vaccine. But even if we make a vaccine, that’s just half the battle. Viruses are unique because they can mutate, and they can mutate to astonishing degrees. In humans mutations to tiny parts of our DNA can cause severe diseases or even death. In viruses mutations can change their structure, making them more infective and giving them a new coat. It gives them a survival advantage, the ability to evade our immune system and make our vaccines ineffective. This is why we need a new flu vaccine every year.

If it takes months to a year to develop a vaccine, it will be based off the virus found in December 2019. By this time the virus may have spread and mutated to such a degree that it is not effective. This does not mean all the effort was for nothing. Going through the steps and understanding the issues faced with making a COVID-19 vaccine can make the process quicker for subsequent vaccines against its mutated versions.

https://www.sciencealert.com/who-says-a-coronavirus-vaccine-is-18-months-away So Long to Develop a Vaccine

FAILURES FROM THE PAST

These issues were faced during the Ebola and Zika virus epidemics, and many large companies are understandably hesitant to develop vaccines for COVID-19. Ebola first broke out in 2014, and it was only in December 2019 that the first vaccine was approved for use by the European Commission and the United States. This is despite multiple large institutes in Canada and the UK working together to develop it.

13 different Ebola vaccine candidates had been identified soon after the outbreak, but none had been tested on humans. Unfortunately this is the most expensive part of development, and the area biopharmecuticals stand to loose the most money. Return on investments is also low, since epidemics usually take place in poorer countries, and the potential customers are unable to pay the high prices for these brand new treatments. It is an unfortunate realisation that research into medicines is driven by rich countries, for diseases that affect the rich.

https://newint.org/features/web-exclusive/2016/06/16/why-did-the-market-fail-to-produce-an-ebola-vaccine Ebola

WHERE ARE WE NOW?

This is all well and good, but what does it mean for COVID-19? We know we cannot rush a vaccine, because a poorly designed vaccine with unknown side effects can cause more harm than good, especially if given to children or the elderly. Currently the WHO are tracking 31 different attempts at making a COVID-19 vaccine, using different methods as discussed before. All of these are currently in the pre-clinical stage, focusing on isolating parts of the virus and creating a target the body will recognise and react to.

Researchers at the University of Queensland were one of the first to start using the genetic code of COVID-19, released openly by Chinese researchers. They have developed a test vaccine within 6 weeks using state-of-the-art genetic techniques, used for the first time. If animal models prove successful then human testing might begin within 6 months. In the pharmaceutical industry advancements this quick are almost unheard of.

Additionally over 293 clinical trials are taking place in China using existing drugs on the market. The advantage is we already know these drugs are safe to use in humans, but we are trying to work out if they will work against COVID-19. Some scientists are also looking at medications that were initially developed against SARS and MERS, but never completed because these outbreaks died down and the medication was no longer required.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/03/china-recovered-develop-effective-covid-19-treatments-200302082850237.html COVID-19 treatments

https://www.who.int/blueprint/priority-diseases/key-action/novel-coronavirus-landscape-ncov.pdf?ua=1 WHO news

https://www.theverge.com/2020/2/28/21156385/covid-coronavirus-vaccine-treatment-moderna-remdesivir-research COVID-19 treatment

Its not all doom and gloom. Challenges drive innovation, and we are already benefitting from this. New forms of genetic sequencing, new methods for extracting viral proteins, new techniques in creating a vaccine. These innovations are already benefitting us on the drive to create an effective vaccine for COVID-19, and they will benefit us in the future when the next pandemic hits.

Dr Rajan Choudhary, Product Manager Second Medic UK

www.secondmedic.com

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World Cancer Day 2025: The Role of Comprehensive Diagnostic Centers in Personalized Cancer Care

World Cancer Day, observed annually on February 4th, serves as a global initiative to raise awareness and promote action against cancer. The theme for 2025, "United by Unique," emphasizes the importance of personalized, patient-centered care in the fight against cancer. Comprehensive diagnostic centres play a pivotal role in this approach, offering tailored services that address the unique needs of each patient.

The Importance of Personalized Cancer Care Diagnostic Centers

Personalized cancer care diagnostic centres are at the forefront of modern oncology, providing individualized assessments that guide treatment decisions. These centres utilize advanced technologies to analyze the specific characteristics of a patient's cancer, including genetic mutations and molecular profiles. This detailed understanding enables healthcare providers to develop targeted therapies that improve outcomes and minimize side effects.

Comprehensive Cancer Diagnostics Services

Comprehensive cancer diagnostics services encompass a range of tests and evaluations designed to detect cancer at its earliest stages and monitor its progression. These services include imaging studies, laboratory tests, genetic screenings, and biopsies. By integrating these diagnostic tools, centres can offer a holistic view of a patient's health, facilitating timely and accurate diagnoses. Early detection through comprehensive diagnostics is crucial, as it significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival.

Advancements in Personalized Cancer Diagnostics

The field of personalized cancer diagnostics has seen remarkable advancements in recent years. Innovations such as liquid biopsies, which detect cancer cells or DNA fragments in blood samples, and AI-powered imaging analysis have revolutionized the way cancers are detected and characterized. These technologies allow for less invasive procedures, quicker results, and more precise treatment planning. For instance, AI-powered platforms have been developed to assist in the diagnosis and evaluation of lung cancer, providing fully automated and in-depth analysis of tissues.

The Role of Diagnostic Centers in Personalized Cancer Therapy

Diagnostic centres are integral to personalized cancer therapy, as they provide the essential information needed to tailor treatments to individual patients. By conducting thorough assessments, these centres identify specific biomarkers and genetic alterations that can be targeted with precision therapies. This approach not only enhances the effectiveness of treatments but also reduces the likelihood of adverse effects, leading to improved patient outcomes. Moreover, diagnostic centres often offer comprehensive cancer screening services, enabling the early detection of malignancies and the implementation of timely interventions.

Benefits of Personalized Diagnostics in Cancer Treatment

Personalized diagnostics offer numerous benefits in cancer treatment. By understanding the unique genetic makeup of a patient's tumour, clinicians can select therapies that are more likely to be effective, thereby increasing the chances of remission. Additionally, personalized diagnostics can identify patients who are unlikely to respond to certain treatments, sparing them from unnecessary side effects and allowing for alternative strategies to be pursued. This individualized approach ensures that each patient receives the most appropriate care based on their specific condition.

Advanced Cancer Diagnostic Technologies at Second Medic

At Second Medic, we are committed to providing state-of-the-art diagnostic services that support personalized cancer care. Our facility is equipped with advanced technologies, including high-resolution imaging systems, molecular testing laboratories, and AI-driven diagnostic tools. These resources enable us to perform comprehensive evaluations and deliver precise diagnoses, forming the foundation for effective, individualized treatment plans. Our team of experienced professionals works collaboratively to ensure that each patient receives care tailored to their unique needs.

World Cancer Day 2025 Events

In alignment with the "United by Unique" theme of World Cancer Day 2025, Second Medic is hosting a series of events aimed at promoting personalized cancer care. These events include educational seminars, free screening programs, and patient support workshops. By participating in these initiatives, individuals can gain valuable insights into the importance of personalized diagnostics and learn about the services available to them. We encourage community members to join us in these efforts to raise awareness and support those affected by cancer.

Conclusion

As we observe World Cancer Day 2025, it is essential to recognize the critical role that comprehensive diagnostic centres play in personalized cancer care. Through advanced diagnostics and individualized treatment planning, these centres empower patients and healthcare providers to combat cancer more effectively. At Second Medic, we are dedicated to advancing personalized cancer diagnostics and providing services that meet the unique needs of each patient. Together, united by our commitment to individualized care, we can make significant strides in the fight against cancer.