Ethris and Lonza Partner to Develop Spray-Dried mRNA Vaccines for Respiratory Disease Prevention
Monday, April 07, 2025
Ethris, a biotechnology company focused on developing next-generation RNA-based treatments and vaccines, has partnered with Lonza, a global contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO), to create spray-dried mRNA vaccine candidates. These formulations are designed for mucosal delivery and aim to offer an effective way to protect against respiratory diseases.
The collaboration centres on developing room-temperature stable formulations, which can help overcome major supply chain issues linked to some mRNA vaccines. These issues include the need for ultra-low temperature storage and complex delivery systems. Improving stability at room temperature is expected to simplify logistics, lower costs, and support faster and broader vaccine production.
Spray-dried mRNA formulations are intended for nasal administration, offering a needle-free method that could help produce immune responses at the site of virus entry. This mucosal approach may not only provide protection similar to traditional intramuscular vaccines but also reduce virus transmission.
The first project under this partnership will focus on developing a nasal mRNA vaccine candidate for influenza. This non-invasive method aims to deliver a strong local immune response, potentially improving the effectiveness of vaccination against respiratory infections.
As part of the agreement, Lonza will use its site in Bend, United States, to carry out spray-drying and particle engineering of vaccine candidates based on Ethris’ SNIM® RNA and SNaP LNP technology platforms. This site is known for addressing bioavailability challenges and adjusting pharmacokinetics to meet specific product goals. Lonza’s experience in formulation development supports the delivery of mRNA to the respiratory system while maintaining its stability and activity.
This partnership combines Ethris' RNA technology with Lonza's formulation and manufacturing expertise, aiming to advance the development of innovative nasal vaccines that could offer a new approach to preventing respiratory diseases worldwide.
Source: businesswire.com
