New player in RNA manufacturing: Aurora Biosynthetics launches in Australia

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Image credit: Aurora Biosynthetics

Aurora Biosynthetics, an advanced RNA therapeutics manufacturing company, has officially launched, marking a significant step forward in RNA production within the Asia-Pacific region. 

Positioned to meet the growing demand for RNA-based therapies, the company will provide a comprehensive Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) solution for plasmid DNA (pDNA), messenger RNA (mRNA), and lipid nanoparticles (LNP) production.

The launch of Aurora Biosynthetics is the result of a public-private partnership involving the New South Wales (NSW) Government, RNA Australia, and Myeloid Therapeutics, a leader in RNA immunotherapies. 

This collaboration combines state-of-the-art RNA manufacturing technologies with government backing, enabling Aurora to swiftly enter the global RNA manufacturing market.

Supported by AUD 200 million from the NSW Government, the project aims to bolster Australia’s RNA ecosystem. 

Aurora’s new facility, located at Macquarie University in Sydney, is expected to create an environment conducive to collaboration with academic researchers while ensuring access to a skilled workforce, all vital to maintaining Australia’s competitive edge in RNA manufacturing.

In a media release, Aurora Biosynthetics stated it is positioned to offer end-to-end solutions for RNA therapeutics manufacturing, which includes:

  • GMP Plasmid Production: Crucial for mRNA production and cell and gene therapies.
  • GMP RNA Production: Specialising in large-scale RNA manufacturing.
  • GMP Lipid Nanoparticle Production: Utilising advanced technologies for LNP encapsulation of mRNA and other active ingredients.
  • Fill-Finish Services: Providing final formulation and preparation for clinical and commercial use.

With the RNA therapeutics market projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 20 per cent, Aurora Biosynthetics said it aims to become the go-to GMP manufacturer for the Asia-Pacific region. 

According to Aurora, its leadership team, composed of experts in RNA technology and manufacturing, is focused on scaling operations to meet global demand while fostering financial stability for the business.

The company is set to boost Australia’s biotech landscape, with clients able to take advantage of the country’s R&D tax credit, offering a 43 per cent cash rebate on R&D expenditures.