CSL secures access to mRNA vaccine technology

Biotechnology and vaccine manufacturer CSL has licensed late stage self-amplifying mRNA vaccine platform technology from global vaccine developer Arcturus Therapeutics Holdings.

Arcturus is developing next generation mRNA vaccines including a Covid-19 vaccine candidate that recently reported results from a major Phase 3 vaccine efficacy study.

The vaccine candidate met its clinical goals in the study of prevention of infection and severe disease with ‘a favourable safety and tolerability profile’, according to Melbourne-based CSL.

The agreement with CSL vaccine subsidiary CSL Seqirus offers a pathway for CSL to offer a Covid-19 booster option to patients in Australia and globally.

CSL COO Paul McKenzie said: “This collaboration is an exciting opportunity to complement CSL’s own next generation mRNA programme with a partner who developed a platform to deliver late stage clinical supplies at scale.

CSL will make an upfront payment to Arcturus of $200 million, further cash to follow on achieving development milestones and royalties/profit sharing on future product sales.

CSL head of R&D Dr Bill Mezzanotte said: “This collaboration on next generation mRNA is another example of CSL’s relentless pursuit of disruptive innovation when public health and patients can benefit.

“We look forward to working with Arcturus to shape the future landscape of influenza vaccines.”

Picture: CSL/Parkville Biomedical Precinct