Singapore set to extend its mRNA manufacturing capabilities by opening its non-GMP NATi mRNA BioFoundry

Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) has launched the Nucleic Acid Therapeutics Initiative (NATi) which will include the non-GMP NATi mRNA BioFoundry. The BioFoundry is a first-of-its-kind facility in Asia dedicated to mRNA manufacturing. Located at the A*STAR Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), this state-of-the-art facility is set to underpin the country’s strategy to expand a homegrown industry for mRNA technology.

“The non-GMP NATi mRNA BioFoundry (the BioFoundry) will position Singapore at the forefront of mRNA manufacturing, providing critical infrastructure to support nucleic acid therapeutics research and production. Novel therapies [can then be] manufactured right here in Singapore,” said Dr Tan See Leng a minister for trade and industry from the Singapore government.

The BioFoundry provides vital infrastructure for developing and producing mRNA-based products, such as vaccines. While currently focused on research and preclinical production, it has been equipped to allow it to rapidly scale up, for example, if there was a health crisis, ensuring Singapore’s ability to respond to emergencies.

“The BioFoundry demonstrates Singapore’s commitment to building critical infrastructure for nucleic acid drug development and future pandemic preparedness,” said Dr Koh Boon Tong, Executive Director of A*STAR BTI and NATi.

“The shift from manual to automated mRNA manufacturing processes has enhanced productivity and lowered production costs, making it possible to accelerate breakthroughs in both research and commercialisation."

The BioFoundry forms part of a S$97 million NATi programme which was announced by Dr Tan earlier in 2024. This facility will the nation’s stated mission of advancing nucleic acid therapeutics in-country.

The facility has been developed as a collaboration of A*STAR and Wellcome Leap ─ a US not-for-profit unit of the Wellcome Trust founded in 2020 ─ and it is intended to pave the way for commercial sustainability.

“Automated processes allow for prompt scaling of mRNA production, ensuring a steady supply for preclinical research and clinical trials,” said Dr Duccio Medini, Wellcome Leap R3* Programme Director, which is part funded by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations.

*   ‘R3’ = RNA, Readiness and Response

-- pmo.gov.sg