Biotechnology journalOct 27, 2025

mRNA Stability Remains a Key Challenge for Wide Medical Use

mRNA Technology Weekly Brief ↗PubMed ↗DOI ↗

Updated Jan 7, 2026

Abstract

mRNAs have shown therapeutic potential for a wide range of diseases, but their single-stranded structure makes them vulnerable to degradation.

The inherent instability of mRNA presents a significant challenge for therapeutic applications.
Strategies to enhance mRNA stability include eliminating degradative enzymes and adding protective substances.
Optimizing the sequence and structure of mRNAs, particularly in specific untranslated regions, can improve stability.
Innovative mRNA designs, such as circular mRNA and self-amplifying RNA, may enhance stability.
The use of specific delivery materials is being explored to further improve mRNA stability.

Simplified

From infectious diseases and cancers to various rare diseases, mRNAs have demonstrated considerable therapeutic potential for a wide range of diseases. However, due to their single-stranded structure, mRNA molecules are vulnerable to enzyme-mediated degradation. Therefore, the inherent instability of mRNA poses a significant challenge. In this review, we explore strategies to slow down the degradation rate, such as removing degradative enzymes, adding protective substances, and optimizing storage and transport conditions to enhance mRNA stability. Furthermore, optimizing the sequence and structure of mRNAs is crucial for improving stability, which can be significantly aided by fine-tuning the sequences of the 5' untranslated region, open reading frame, and 3' untranslated region, along with introducing various RNA modifications. The design of novel mRNA structures, including circular mRNA and self-amplifying RNA, also offers novel approaches for enhancing mRNA stability. Additionally, we briefly introduce the use of mRNA delivery materials for improving stability and discuss current challenges and future directions in mRNA development. With ongoing technological advancements and the gradual maturation of the market, mRNA is set to play an increasingly significant role in versatile biotechnology fields.

Full Text

Full text is available at the source.

View Full Text ↗

mRNA Stability Remains a Key Challenge for Wide Medical Use

Abstract

Full Text

You found one interesting study. We’ll send the next 7.

What Lands in Your Inbox Each Week:

Recent issues from the mrna technology brief

Abstract

Full Text

Related papers

You found one interesting study. We’ll send the next 7.

What Lands in Your Inbox Each Week:

Recent issues from the mrna technology brief