Meiji Seika Pharma Boosts mRNA Capabilities with ARCALIS Investment

Meiji Seika Pharma Co., Ltd., a leading Japanese pharmaceutical company, has recently announced its investment in ARCALIS, Inc., a joint venture specializing in mRNA pharmaceuticals and vaccines. This strategic move aligns with Meiji Seika Pharma's long-term goal of strengthening its mRNA vaccine production capabilities and improving the supply of mRNA vaccines in Japan.

ARCALIS, a collaboration between Axcelead, Inc. and Arcturus Therapeutics, Inc., brings advanced mRNA technology to Meiji Seika Pharma's portfolio. With expertise in mRNA pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) services, ARCALIS complements Meiji Seika Pharma's strengths in manufacturing, post-marketing safety management, and stable product supply. Together, they aim to significantly enhance the domestic production of mRNA vaccines in Japan.

The Japanese government's strategy for strengthening vaccine development and production systems has influenced this collaboration. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic's vaccine delays, the government adopted a strategy to ensure timely delivery of necessary vaccine quantities. Meiji Seika Pharma's investment in ARCALIS further strengthens their collaborative relationship, combining ARCALIS' advanced technology in mRNA pharmaceuticals and vaccines with Meiji Seika Pharma's manufacturing expertise.

Meiji Seika Pharma plans to supply the domestically produced next-generation sa-mRNA vaccine 'KOSTAIVE® for Intramuscular Injection' in December 2024. This vaccine will be formulated by a Meiji Seika Pharma Group company using the active pharmaceutical ingredient produced by ARCALIS. The supply will commence upon approval of the partial change in manufacturing and marketing authorization for the additional domestic manufacturing sites currently under application.

The collaboration between ARCALIS and Meiji Seika Pharma is expected to improve the supply of mRNA vaccines in Japan, ensuring the country's preparedness for future infectious diseases. By combining ARCALIS' advanced technology and operations with Meiji Seika Pharma's manufacturing prowess, they aim to significantly enhance the domestic production of mRNA vaccines.



In conclusion, Meiji Seika Pharma's investment in ARCALIS, Inc. is a strategic move that aligns with the company's long-term goals and the Japanese government's strategy for strengthening vaccine development and production systems. This collaboration is expected to significantly improve the supply of mRNA vaccines in Japan, ensuring the country's preparedness for future infectious diseases.