CanSino Biologics to Provide CDMO Services to AstraZeneca for mRNA Vaccine Program

Zhitong Finance APP reported that CanSinoBIO (688185.SH) announced it has signed a "Product Supply Cooperation Framework Agreement" with AstraZeneca AB ("AstraZeneca"). CanSinoBIO will provide contract development and manufacturing services to support AstraZeneca's mRNA vaccine project, including the production and supply of specific products and related services. The term of the framework agreement starts from August 7, 2023, until (1) the corresponding day of the tenth anniversary or (2) the expiration date of the then-valid product supply plan.

It is reported that the company has established an mRNA technology platform, equipped with self-designed and developed sequence optimization software, which can identify key sites affecting stability and obtain the optimal sequence to effectively enhance antigen expression. The CMC process is streamlined, which can shorten product development time and quickly achieve the industrialization of scientific research results. The company has preliminarily completed the Phase I project of the mRNA vaccine production base to support the R&D and commercialization of products based on the mRNA platform. The signing of the agreement is an important sign that the company’s capabilities have been recognized by international pharmaceutical companies, affirming its R&D strength and competitive advantages in the mRNA technology platform.