Project description
Yeast-based bioproduction of RNA therapeutics
Ribonucleic acid (RNA) molecules are gaining momentum for the treatment of various conditions including in the generation of antiviral vaccines. However, RNA production relies on costly in vitro transcription methods. The EU-funded Yscript project proposes an alternative method for production of messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules, using yeast. Given the similarity in the structure between yeast and human mRNA, researchers will set up a technology for producing, isolating and purifying mRNA in yeast cells. This bioproduction platform will guarantee high purity and stability of target mRNA molecules – at a fraction of the cost. Importantly, it will lay the foundation for advancing the use of RNA therapeutics in medicine.
Objective
Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines have become a game-changer in the fight against COVID-19, providing an exit strategy to the global crisis of our age. mRNA is now considered a promising biopharmaceutical for a vast array of medical applications. Currently, in vitro transcription (IVT) is the only available technology for mRNA production; however, it relies on a complex supply chain and costly purification process. Reliable large-scale IVT production is challenging and high production costs are an issue for low-income countries, and this will be even more critical for clinical mRNA applications requiring high doses. Yscript’s groundbreaking nature lies in the generation of a specific mRNA bioproduction process in yeast, integrating innovative extraction and purification processes, representing a complete shift of paradigm compared to IVT production and a revolutionary new use of yeast. Although yeast possesses a similar mature mRNA structure as humans and is recognized as safe for pharmaceutical production, mRNA bioproduction and isolation have never been attempted. Yscript will provide groundbreaking technological improvements by: i) decreasing the mRNA production supply chain; ii) increasing the purity yield of long mRNA by avoiding premature termination occurring during IVT; and iii) guarantying mRNA stability through integrated extraction-purification processes. This will ensure the generation of high-quality mRNA therapeutics, while streamlining production and reducing costs. Yscript brings together world-class expertise in molecular biology, biophysics, biotechnology, chemistry, chemical engineering, mRNA therapeutics, yeast Ty biology, bioproduction and purification processes. The project will significantly advance the current state of the art of mRNA manufacturing. Yscript will foster citizens’ well-being and health, while decreasing economic and social disparities associated with biopharmaceutical-based therapies, in which mRNA is nowadays a key element.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- medical and health sciences basic medicine pharmacology and pharmacy pharmaceutical drugs vaccines
- natural sciences biological sciences biophysics
- engineering and technology chemical engineering
- natural sciences biological sciences molecular biology
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Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.3.1 - The European Innovation Council (EIC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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HORIZON.3.1.1 - The Pathfinder for Advanced Research
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-EIC - HORIZON EIC Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-EIC-2021-PATHFINDEROPEN-01
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
45067 Orleans Cedex 2
France
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.