China has commenced clinical trials for its self-developed tuberculosis (TB) mRNA vaccine at Beijing Chest Hospital. The vaccine, a significant advancement in TB prevention, has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in preclinical studies, surpassing traditional vaccines by a considerable margin.
Animal trials indicate that the protective capability of this vaccine is more than 20 times greater than that of the widely used Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine and other foreign-developed TB vaccines. This innovation is expected to provide a new vaccination option for individuals of all age groups while significantly reducing TB infection and incidence rates.
The research team is now focusing on further studies related to immunization strategies, administration routes, and vaccine adaptation. Experts aim to optimize the effectiveness of the vaccine through comprehensive analysis and trials to determine the best application methods.
In addition to vaccine development, a cutting-edge AI-based diagnosis model for TB detection has been introduced. The model enables remote, non-invasive early diagnosis of pulmonary diseases, including TB. This technology is still in its preclinical stage but has the potential to transform how TB is detected and managed.
Furthermore, a rapid detection method for tuberculosis-causing bacteria has been developed. Utilizing tongue swabs, this method allows for quick and accurate TB detection. The technique is set to be gradually implemented across the country, starting in July.
These advancements in TB prevention and diagnosis mark a significant step toward better disease control. The integration of innovative vaccines and AI-powered diagnostic tools is expected to enhance public health efforts and contribute to the global fight against tuberculosis.
