The deal allows Lonza to integrate an additional, differentiated source of DNA into its end-to-end offering for customers developing messenger RNA (mRNA) therapeutics and vaccines. For Touchlight, the collaboration enables it to widen the channels through which customers can gain access to its novel doggybone DNA (dbDNA) technology.

“The strategic collaboration with Touchlight enables Lonza to further enhance its position as a global leader in mRNA manufacturing. Such an integrated solution can prove beneficial in speeding up time to market, which is critical in the fast-paced industry of mRNA manufacturing,” said Lonza’s vice president, business unit head mRNA, André Goerke.

Current mRNA-based therapeutics in development include vaccines for infectious diseases and immuno-oncology.

In July, Touchlight signed a non-exclusive patent license agreement with Pfizer, giving the US pharma global rights to its enzymatic dbDNA patent portfolio. Pfizer will use the dbDNA to manufacture and commercialize its mRNA-based vaccines, therapeutics and gene therapies.

Author: Elaine Burridge, Freelance Journalist