Biological E new recipient of mRNA technology through WHO technology transfer hub
WHO and partners will work with the Indian government and Bio E to develop a roadmap and put in place the necessary training and support so that the company can start producing mRNA vaccines as soon as possible.
New Delhi: Biological E has been selected as a recipient of mRNA technology from the World Health Organisation (WHO) technology transfer hub.
The objective of the technology transfer hub is to build capacity in low- and middle-income countries to produce mRNA vaccines through a centre of excellence and training (the mRNA vaccine technology hub). The hub is located at Afrigen, Cape Town, South Africa, and will work with a network of technology recipients (spokes) in low- and middle-income countries.
"After reviewing a number of proposals from India, WHO's Product Development for Vaccines Advisory Committee (PDVAC) has selected Biological E as a recipient of mRNA technology from the WHO technology transfer hub," the WHO said in a statement.
Read also: Biological E Corbevax safe, offers high antibody levels: NTAGI Chairman
Bio E already manufactures a number of critical vaccines, including Corbevax, a second generation vaccine for COVID-19.
WHO and partners will work with the Indian government and Bio E to develop a roadmap and put in place the necessary training and support so that the company can start producing mRNA vaccines as soon as possible.
"Primarily set up to address the COVID-19 emergency, the hub has the potential to expand manufacturing capacity for other products as well, including treatments, and target other priorities such as malaria, HIV and cancer," WHO added.
Established during the 'Swadeshi Movement' of India, Biological E. Limited (BE) started during a time when the nation sought access to critical healthcare products. Founded and led by Dr. DVK Raju, Biological E. Limited commenced its operations in 1953 as a biological products company manufacturing liver extracts and anti-coagulants. Currently, the company has four strategic business units: Branded Formulations, Speciality Generic Injectables, Synthetic Biology and Vaccines and Biologics.
Read also: Corbevax gets DCGI emergency use nod for 12-18 age group
