Professor Olivier Michielin Discusses mRNA Advances in Le Temps

Professor Olivier Michielin, vice-coordinator of the CRTOH and Head of Oncology and Precision Oncology at Geneva University Hospitals (HUG), was recently interviewed by the Swiss newspaper Le Temps. In the article, he discusses the rapid advances of mRNA technologies and their potential to transform cancer treatment.

As clinical trials progress, mRNA-based cancer vaccines are emerging as a promising new therapeutic approach. Unlike conventional prophylactic vaccines, these personalised treatments are designed to target tumour-specific mutations identified in each patient. According to Prof. Michielin, this level of adaptability could represent a major step forward for precision oncology. 

However, he also highlights key challenges ahead — including the complexity of manufacturing personalised vaccines, the logistics required for sequencing and production, and the need for robust supply chains compatible with the fragility of mRNA. Despite these hurdles, ongoing research and improving technologies continue to push the field forward.

The full interview is available in Le Temps (21 March 2026).

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