COVID Precisely how does Pfizer's Covid-19 mRNA vaccine work?

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The Pfizer mRNA vaccine BNT162b2 encodes the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, prompting an immune response that prepares the body for future exposure to the virus. The mRNA is encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) that protect it from degradation and facilitate its delivery into cells via endocytosis. Once inside, the mRNA is translated into the spike protein, which is then transported to the cell membrane using signal peptides. The spike proteins do not permanently reside in the body, as they are eventually degraded, preventing the immune system from recognizing them as normal proteins. Overall, the design of BNT162b2, including modifications for stability and immune response, showcases advanced biotechnological strategies.
  • #31
markar said:
Is the sequence of the mRNA (including modified nucleotides) in the public domain? Does it code any enzymes in addition to the spike protein?

Here's a good piece describing the components of the vaccine (though, again, the exact sequence of the mRNA appears to be proprietary): https://www.technologyreview.com/20...-the-ingredients-of-pfizers-covid-19-vaccine/

aheight said:
I assume the " trimerised SARS-CoV-2 S glycoprotein RBD antigen " is the spike protein consisting of three protein chains?
Yes. The S glycoprotein is another name for the spike protein (S stands for spike). A glycoprotein is a protein that has sugars attached to it. Most proteins on the surfaces of cells have sugars attached to them, and the spike protein in no exception. The RBD stands for the receptor binding domain, and refers to a specific part of the spike protein that binds to the ACE2 protein on the surface of cells. You want antibodies to target the RBD of the spike protein because these antibodies could interfere with attachment of the virus to cells. On the surface of the viruses, three spike proteins come together to form an active trimer, so timerization of the antigen in the vaccine helps to mimic how the spike protein looks on the outside of viruses.
 
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  • #32
markar said:
Is the sequence of the mRNA (including modified nucleotides) in the public domain? Does it code any enzymes in addition to the spike protein?

Here's a source that apparently has the sequence of the Pfizer mRNA vaccine:
 

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