Programme de transfert de technologie pour l'acide ribonucléique messager (ARNm)

This project aims to improve health security and increase vaccine manufacturing capacity in low- and middle-income countries by establishing a Messenger Ribonucleic Acid (mRNA) Technology Transfer Hub. The project focuses on a COVID-19 vaccine as proof-of-concept. It also aims to support a pipeline of future mRNA vaccine candidates -such as tuberculosis Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and malaria- to ensure long-term sustainability. Project activities include: (1) preparing the technology transfer hub facility in South Africa including training staff and technical assistance; (2) developing mRNA vaccine technology; (3) conducting research and development activities; (4) transferring the mRNA vaccine manufacturing platform and providing bio-manufacturing training and critical equipment to partner facilities in Bangladesh Kenya Nigeria Senegal and South Africa; and (5) supporting research to develop second-generation mRNA technology for different target diseases relevant to low- and middle-income countries. This project represents additional funds provided to a pre-existing project in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The description and expected results are the same.

The expected outcomes of the project include: (1) established or enhanced sustainable mRNA vaccine manufacturing capacity in regions with no or limited capacity; and (2) increased human capital for bio-manufacturing in low- and middle-income countries.