The University of Florida reported successful preclinical testing of a universal mRNA cancer vaccine that activates immunity against different types of tumors. In experiments on mice, the vaccine eliminated cancer cells in the skin, brain, bones, and melanoma—even without any additional treatment.
The key mechanism involves increasing tumor visibility to the immune system through the PD‑L1 molecule. Unlike personalized approaches, the new vaccine is designed to build a general immune response and targets a wide range of cancer types. The researchers are now preparing for the first phase of trials in people.
In parallel, the first phase of clinical trials has been completed for a personalized mRNA vaccine against glioblastoma. In four patients, it triggered a rapid immune response, and the study is now expanding to a broader group.
