Advancing Enzymes for Precision Therapeutics

The AdEPT project addresses the global need for safer, more sustainable and cost-effective production of RNA therapeutics, recently highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic's need for rapid vaccine production. By combining the expertise and resources of ArcticZymes Technologies ASA, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway and SINTEF, AdEPT aims to strengthen ArcticZymes' innovation capacity and develop improved enzyme solutions for efficient production of RNA-based vaccines and therapeutics. Key R&D challenges include the design and new essential enzymes in the mRNA production process using techniques such as molecular modeling and AI- and structure-guided modifications. Improvements to methodology in protein expression and purification are also needed to ensure that the functionality and quality of enzymes meet industry standards. A successful collaborative project will improve the production and analysis of RNA therapeutics for future better health.