mRNA Technology: Trump Administration's War on Medical Breakthroughs?

2025-03-27 12:00:10.377

The Trump administration's approach to mRNA technology, crucial for COVID-19 vaccines and future medical advancements, is alarming scientists. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is collecting data on mRNA research funding, sparking fears of defunding. Scientists report informal warnings against applying for mRNA grants, creating a climate of fear and secrecy. While the NIH claims it's a data call, concerns center on the administration's apparent mistrust of mRNA, fueled by misinformation and conspiracy theories surrounding COVID-19 vaccines. This distrust extends to a review of a large contract with Moderna for flu vaccine research. The situation is worsened by the appointments of mRNA vaccine skeptics to key positions within the administration, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at HHS and potential appointments of Jay Bhattacharya at NIH and Martin Makary at the FDA. These individuals have previously voiced concerns about COVID-19 responses and vaccines. Experts fear this opposition could impact FDA approvals of future mRNA-based drugs and therapies, potentially hindering medical progress and jeopardizing preparedness for future pandemics. Despite these concerns, the FDA maintains its commitment to a science-based approach, and some remain hopeful that the drug approval process will remain protected from politicization.