Don't blame the messenger

Overview

This short film captures the intricate dance of in vitro transcription (IVT)—the process of synthesising mRNA outside the cell, which is central to our research on mRNA vaccines. Through a blend of laboratory footage and storytelling, it reveals the steps required to bring mRNA to life. Each pipette movement and mRNA quantification echo the balance between science, success and challenge in this process. It highlights the beauty hidden in repetition, and the resilience and team culture needed to overcome the technical failures in this arduous procedure.