# mRNA

CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mrna
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a molecule in your cells that carries instructions for making proteins. It acts like a messenger that tells your body how to build specific parts it needs to stay healthy.

For teachers: a single-stranded molecule of RNA that corresponds to the genetic sequence of a gene and is read by a ribosome in the process of synthesizing a protein.

## Examples

- The vaccine uses mRNA to teach the body how to fight the virus.
- Scientists spent decades researching how to stabilize mRNA so it could be safely delivered into human cells.
- By utilizing synthetic mRNA, researchers can instruct cells to produce specific antigens, effectively bypassing the need to introduce a weakened or inactivated pathogen into the patient's system.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a modifier before another noun, such as 'mRNA vaccine' or 'mRNA technology'.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.