Enhancing T Cell Responses with mRNA Vaccines Incorporating Cytokine IL-12

Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have made significant advances in vaccine technology by modifying mRNA vaccines to include the cytokine IL-12, a protein produced naturally by immune cells during infections. This modification has been shown to boost the immune response, particularly increasing the activity of CD8+ T cells, which are crucial for killing infected or cancerous cells. The study, published in Science Immunology, demonstrated that adding IL-12 to vaccines enhances the body's defense mechanisms against various pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, as well as against melanoma and listeria infections in mice.

The inclusion of IL-12 as a vaccine adjuvant is especially promising because this cytokine plays a vital role in stimulating cellular immunity. Historically, inducing strong CD8+ T cell responses has been challenging, but the advent of mRNA vaccine technology has changed the landscape. Data over the past four years indicate that individuals who generate robust T cell responses through mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are less susceptible to breakthrough infections and hospitalization.

One practical advantage of incorporating IL-12 into mRNA vaccines is the potential to reduce the vaccine dosage and frequency, minimizing adverse effects associated with higher doses. Experts like Anthony T. Phan highlight that this approach could also inform the development of targeted therapeutics for cancer, as well as vaccines aimed at protecting the gut and lung tissues.

The collaboration among experts in cytokine biology, nanoparticle design, and vaccine development underscores the interdisciplinary effort driving this innovation. The researchers are also exploring other cytokine mRNA combinations to further enhance immune responses, with future applications targeting HIV and avian influenza. Overall, this breakthrough showcases the potential of cytokine-modified mRNA vaccines to provide more durable and effective immunity against a wide range of diseases.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-mrna-vaccines-cytokine-il-cell.html