mRNA

noun

ˈem-ˈär-ˈen-ˈā 

plural mRNAs

: messenger rna

Microarrays that identify thousands of active genes at a time are now a standard tool for biologists. They detect the mRNAs produced by active genes.

—New Scientist

Examples of mRNA in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

What's more, the Department of Health and Human Services canceled nearly $500 million in mRNA vaccine research funding last summer. — Sydney Lupkin, NPR, 1 Aug. 2026

Incredible, considering Fauci relentlessly advocated for such policies and demanded everyone get mRNA shots to protect others. — Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 28 July 2026

Personalized mRNA cancer vaccines COVID-19 demonstrated the speed of mRNA technology. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 27 July 2026

Notably, its rival Ionis alleged last year that Arrowhead copied its patented mRNA technology to develop Redemplo, FiercePharma notes. — Meghana Keshavan, STAT, 23 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing mRNA

• mRNA vaccine

Medical Definition

mRNA

noun

ˈem-ˈär-ˈen-ˈā 

: messenger rna