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

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

The goal is to figure out how the presence or absence of a particular gene, the matching mRNA transcripts or cellular biochemicals that a gene codes for relates to blight resistance. — Steve Strauss, The Conversation, 22 July 2026

But Kennedy despises the technology and has spread significant misinformation about mRNA technology. — Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 16 July 2026

The reforms include winding down mRNA vaccine development, withdrawing funding for an international vaccine alliance and tightening access to COVID shots. — CNN Money, 16 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