ARCT-021

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

ARCT-021 is an investigational vaccine candidate developed by Arcturus Therapeutics for the prevention of COVID-19. It is based on the mRNA technology and utilizes the company's proprietary LUNAR platform for delivery.

Overview[edit | edit source]

ARCT-021 is a self-replicating RNA vaccine, which means it can produce multiple copies of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein within the body to stimulate an immune response. This is different from traditional vaccines, which often require a booster shot to achieve the desired level of immunity.

Development and Clinical Trials[edit | edit source]

The development of ARCT-021 began in early 2020, following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The vaccine entered Phase 1/2 clinical trials in August 2020, with preliminary results showing a strong immune response with a single dose.

In December 2020, Arcturus Therapeutics announced that it would proceed to Phase 2 trials, with plans for a Phase 3 trial to follow. The company is also exploring the potential for ARCT-021 to be used as a booster vaccine for individuals who have already received a different COVID-19 vaccine.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

ARCT-021 works by introducing a small piece of the SARS-CoV-2 virus's genetic material into the body. This genetic material instructs cells to produce the spike protein found on the surface of the virus. The immune system then recognizes this protein as foreign and produces antibodies to fight it. If the individual is later exposed to the actual virus, their immune system is prepared to fight it off.

Safety and Efficacy[edit | edit source]

In the Phase 1/2 clinical trials, ARCT-021 was generally well-tolerated with no serious adverse events reported. The most common side effects were mild to moderate and included fatigue, headache, and injection site pain.

The vaccine demonstrated a strong immune response in participants, with high levels of neutralizing antibodies and T cell responses observed. Further studies are needed to confirm these results and to determine the duration of immunity provided by the vaccine.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD