The United States has seen significant changes in its foreign and domestic policies since the inauguration of US President Donald Trump in January. Among the groups most affected by these changes are scientists who rely on federal grants for their work. Researchers from various fields, including LBGTQ+ health and gender identity, climate and environmental studies, and medical research, have experienced reductions in research funding.

Most recently, research into vaccine hesitancy has been impacted, with over 30 grants for studying public mistrust in immunizations being terminated, according to several US media outlets. There is concern over Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s role in these funding decisions; he is known for his skepticism towards vaccines.

The controversy extends to the mRNA vaccine research field, which serves as the foundation for COVID-19 vaccines developed by BioNTech-Pfizer and Moderna. These vaccines utilize mRNA, a genetic molecule that instructs the body’s cells to produce specific proteins. The significance of mRNA technology also spans other medical developments, including potential treatments for malaria and certain cancers. However, the reduction in federal funding may jeopardize ongoing research into these critical areas.

In consideration of these developments, it is important to note that any halt in federal funding for mRNA research would likely impede progress in fields that depend on such research for medical advances.

Source: https://www.dw.com/en/crucial-mrna-vaccine-research-at-risk-in-the-us/a-71989604?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf