In mRNA vaccine, what is the meaning of 'm'?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → Messenger
mRNA stands for messenger RNA, the molecule that carries the genetic instructions from DNA to the ribosomes, where proteins are made. An mRNA vaccine gives the body’s cells a short mRNA with the instructions for a harmless piece of the virus (for COVID-19, the spike protein); the cells make that protein, and the immune system learns to recognise it.
Why the other options are incorrect
Option (2) Moderna — Incorrect. Moderna is a company that makes an mRNA vaccine; its name is not what the ‘m’ stands for.
Option (3) Membrane — Incorrect. A membrane is the covering of a cell; it has no place in the name of the molecule.
Option (4) Modeling — Incorrect. There is no RNA type named after modelling.