Making the next generation of therapeutics: mRNA meets synthetic biology

Abstract

The development of mRNA-based therapeutics centers around the natural functioning of mRNA molecules to provide the genetic information required for protein translation. To improve the efficacy of these therapeutics and minimize side effects, researchers can focus on the features of mRNA itself or the properties of the delivery agent to achieve the desired response. The tools considered for mRNA manipulation can be improved in terms of targetability, tunability, and translatability to medicine. While ongoing studies are dedicated to improving conventional approaches, innovative approaches can also be considered to unleash the full potential of mRNA-based therapeutics. Here, we discuss the opportunities that emerged from introducing synthetic biology to mRNA therapeutics. It includes a discussion of modular self-assembled mRNA nanoparticles, logic gates on a single mRNA molecule, and other possibilities.