What is more beneficial for gaining admission to an MDPhD program?

1) Getting experience in a research lab that is similar (but not exactly) your interest or --

2) getting experience in a lab totally unrelated to one's professional interest, but the lab/researchers are well-published, working on exciting, potentially life-saving vaccines...and I already have a rapport with them?

I think working/volunteering for #2 would be very interesting even if not what I want to research for my PhD and it would help me understand in general the life of a research scientist. It just seems that if I can find an 'in' for #1, it would be more appropriate for my personal long-term goals/interests. I have a gut feeling that I could get more learning out of #2 and maybe more enthusiastic LOR as I know these people (friends).

As a non-trad applicant who was not a science major with a noncompetitive undergrad GPA, I feel the need to be strategic in what I do prior to applying. Any feedback is greatly appreciated!