Definition

A vaccine consisting of a mRNA delivery vector encapsulating messenger RNA (mRNA) encoding an unspecified antigen of hepatitis B virus (HBV), with potential immunomodulating and antineoplastic activities. Upon administration of the HBV mRNA vaccine, the mRNA delivery vector releases HBV mRNA into the cells. The mRNA is then translated by the cellular protein translation machinery to produce the HBV antigen. This results in the induction of antigen-specific CD8+ and CD4+ T-cell responses against the HBV antigen. HBV infection is present in many hepatocellular carcinoma patients.