Modifications in an Emergency: The Role of N1-Methylpseudouridine in COVID-19 Vaccines

  • ACS Cent Sci. 2021 May 26;7(5):748-756. doi: 10.1021/acscentsci.1c00197.
Kellie D Nance  1 ,  Jordan L Meier  1
Affiliations
  • 1. Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 538 Chandler Street, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States.
PMID: 34075344 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.1c00197
Abstract

The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, the cause of the COVID-19 pandemic, has inspired one of the most efficient vaccine development campaigns in human history. A key aspect of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines is the use of the modified nucleobase N1-methylpseudouridine (m1Ψ) to increase their effectiveness. In this Outlook, we summarize the development and function of m1Ψ in synthetic mRNAs. By demystifying how a novel element within these medicines works, we aim to foster understanding and highlight future opportunities for chemical innovation.

Products