A newly developed mRNA vaccine for tuberculosis, created in China, has entered clinical trials at Beijing Chest Hospital. The trial, which commenced on Monday, marks a significant step in the country’s efforts to combat tuberculosis, according to the Beijing Evening News.
Results from previous animal studies indicate that the vaccine provides a protective effect more than 20 times stronger than both the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine and other tuberculosis vaccines produced internationally.
With independent intellectual property rights, this vaccine is designed to serve as a viable immunisation option for individuals of all age groups. Researchers believe it could play a crucial role in reducing both tuberculosis infections and overall disease incidence.
Following the start of the clinical trial, the research and development team is set to investigate various immunisation approaches, modes of administration, and vaccine adaptation symptoms to determine the most effective application of the new treatment.
According to the report, Pang Yu, head of bacteriological immunology at Beijing Chest Hospital, confirmed these developments.
In a related effort, the hospital has introduced an artificial intelligence-based diagnostic model and a rapid detection technique for tuberculosis using tongue swabs.
This AI-powered diagnostic system is capable of remotely detecting pulmonary diseases, including tuberculosis, through a non-invasive method. While still in the preclinical stage, the rapid detection method is expected to be rolled out nationwide beginning in July, the report stated.