Currently, there is no cure for celiac disease other than strict gluten avoidance, with intravenous fluids being the only treatment for severe dehydration.

Researchers are aiming to develop a 'tolerizing vaccine' that helps the immune system recognize gluten as safe, contrasting with traditional vaccines that provoke an immune response.

Weissman emphasizes the ease of modifying mRNA sequences, which allows for the creation of targeted vaccines against evolving viruses.

Drew Weissman, motivated by his own experience with type 1 diabetes, is leading efforts to adapt mRNA technology for chronic diseases like celiac disease.

Weissman, along with Jilian Melamed from Penn Medicine, is exploring the use of mRNA technology to develop treatments for celiac disease, building on their success with vaccines for infectious diseases.

However, Melamed has raised concerns about recent federal funding cuts to research, which could hinder advancements in mRNA technology.

Both Weissman and Melamed highlight the broad potential of mRNA technology in medicine, noting its cost-effectiveness compared to traditional therapeutics.

Celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder affecting approximately 3.3 million people in the U.S., causes damage to the small intestine upon gluten consumption, leading to severe symptoms and potential long-term health complications like cancers.

The daily struggles of individuals with celiac disease are exemplified by Jax Bari, an 11-year-old who recently experienced severe symptoms after accidentally consuming gluten.

In the realm of cancer treatment, mRNA therapeutics are also being developed for immunotherapy and potential cancer vaccines, showcasing the versatility of this technology.

Recent studies confirm that individuals with celiac disease are at an increased risk of developing various types of cancers, including lymphoma and small bowel cancer.

Bioengineering Professor Michael Mitchell is enhancing treatment adaptability by utilizing lipid nanoparticles to deliver mRNA directly to targeted cells.