August 1, 2026
NPR recently published an article featuring Rena Conti, Professor of Markets, Public Policy, and Law, discussing the implications of the FDA’s pending decision on Moderna’s experimental mRNA-based flu shot.
The article examines the FDA’s initial rejection of Moderna’s application and its subsequent decision to review the vaccine following industry outcry. An FDA advisory panel has since recommended approval, with the agency expected to make its final decision soon.
Conti emphasized the importance of regulatory consistency for investment in new medical technologies, saying, “They don’t want to spend money if they don’t think there’s going to be a way to actually make money on the other end.”
The FDA’s actions, along with nearly $500 million in canceled federal mRNA research funding, could affect investment and innovation in the field.
