Immune dysregulation and loss of tumor surveillance.
Figure 5 illustrates how lipid nanoparticle–encapsulated mRNA can trigger strong localized and systemic immune activation, including cytokine release (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6). This immune shift reduces cytotoxic CD8⁺ T-cell and NK-cell activity while expanding immunosuppressive populations (Tregs, MDSCs, M2 macrophages), creating conditions that allow latent or controlled tumors to escape immune surveillance and rapidly progress.
Spike protein persistence and tumor-promoting effects.
Vaccine-derived spike protein can persist for months to years, disrupt tumor-suppressor pathways, induce DNA damage responses, and has been detected within tumor tissue without nucleocapsid protein, confirming vaccine origin. Persistent spike exposure within the tumor microenvironment can promote angiogenesis, immune evasion, and accelerated growth.
Residual DNA contaminants.
Independent analyses have identified plasmid DNA fragments, including SV40 regulatory elements, encapsulated within lipid nanoparticles. This delivery system enhances cellular uptake and raises concerns about genomic interaction and prolonged immune activation, further tipping the balance toward tumor hyperprogression.
These mechanisms converge to shift the immune system from tumor control to tumor promotion, favoring rapid progression and immune escape — risks that were never adequately evaluated prior to mass deployment.