Scientists at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences in Dublin have delivered the world's first preclinical proof-of-concept for an mRNA vaccine targeting neuroblastoma — the deadliest form of childhood cancer. In animal models, the experimental vaccine shrank tumors by 70% and delayed aggressive tumor growth by 10 to 11 days.
The vaccine works by training the immune system to attack Glypican 2 (GPC2), a protein found on the surface of neuroblastoma cells. Peptide nanoparticles deliver the mRNA directly to tumor sites. Lead researcher Dr. Olga Piskareva likened the approach to "LEGO bricks" — modular components that can be tailored to an individual patient's cancer profile.
The stakes are high: neuroblastoma causes 15% of all childhood cancer deaths, and around 80% of patients respond poorly to current treatments. Because GPC2 also appears on other cancer types, researchers believe this platform could eventually extend beyond neuroblastoma to treat other pediatric and adult cancers. The study was published June 18, 2026 in Molecular Therapy Oncology.