SINGAPORE – The Nucleic Acid Therapeutics Initiative (NATi), a national platform hosted by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), officially launched the non-GMP NATi mRNA BioFoundry today. Located at the A*STAR Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI), this state-of-the-art facility marks a significant milestone in Singapore’s efforts to build self-reliance in mRNA technology and strengthen the country’s position in nucleic acid therapeutics.
Officiating the launch, Second Minister for Trade and Industry Dr Tan See Leng highlighted the facility’s impact: “The NATi mRNA BioFoundry will position Singapore at the forefront of mRNA manufacturing, providing critical infrastructure to support nucleic acid therapeutics research and production. This marks an important first step towards realising RNA therapies that are not only discovered but also manufactured right here in Singapore, contributing to our ambition of becoming a leading hub for biomedical innovation.”
The non-GMP NATi mRNA BioFoundry is a first-of-its-kind facility in Asia dedicated to mRNA manufacturing. As part of the $97 million NATi programme announced by Minister Tan during this year’s MTI Committee of Supply debate, this facility supports NATi’s mission of advancing nucleic acid therapeutics. Built in collaboration between NATi, A*STAR, and Wellcome Leap, the facility will strengthen Singapore’s leadership in nucleic acid therapeutics and potentially pave the way for a commercially sustainable GMP Biofoundry in Singapore.
Singapore is also a key research performer in the Wellcome Leap R3 Program, which brings together researchers from around the world. Wellcome Leap R3 aims to develop and deploy RNA technologies and innovations, to realise RNA’s potential in new vaccines and therapeutic applications. By being part of the R3 global network, Singapore can enhance local NATi efforts, positioning itself as a regional hub for RNA therapeutics. This collaboration allows Singaporean researchers to connect with international institutions and companies, advancing RNA technologies and accelerating their application in vaccines and therapeutics.
Advancing Health Solutions with Cutting-Edge Technology and Automation
The non-GMP NATi mRNA BioFoundry provides vital infrastructure for developing and producing mRNA-based products, such as vaccines. While currently focused on research and preclinical production, the NATi mRNA BioFoundry is equipped to scale up swiftly during national health crises, ensuring Singapore’s ability to respond effectively to future emergencies.
"The non-GMP NATi mRNA 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."
What sets the non-GMP NATi mRNA BioFoundry apart is its focus on automation. The facility integrates advanced technologies developed or tested during the Wellcome Leap R3 Program to streamline production, improve efficiency, and reduce costs.
“The 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 Program Director. “This is a critical step in a partnership that will benefit from further technology developments towards a multi-scale, fully automated, continuous flow GMP manufacturing platform.”
As the facility grows and continues to innovate, it will play a pivotal role in attracting new research opportunities, fostering partnerships, and advancing the country’s capabilities in healthcare and biomanufacturing.
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