Cipla boosts investment in Ethris to advance mRNA therapies in emerging markets

Cipla Limited has announced an additional investment of EUR 3 million in Ethris GmbH, further strengthening its involvement in the mRNA technology sector. This move follows an initial investment of EUR 15 million in 2022 and underscores Cipla’s commitment to advancing mRNA-based treatments, particularly for patients in emerging markets.

Ethris, recognized as a leader in developing mRNA therapies specifically designed for respiratory diseases, has partnered with Cipla to accelerate the development and distribution of these innovative treatments globally. The additional funds will be channeled through a convertible loan, aiming to enhance Ethris’s proprietary mRNA platform and expand its potential applications in various therapeutic areas including infectious diseases, cancer vaccines, and protein replacement therapies.

Umang Vohra, Managing Director & Global Chief Executive Officer of Cipla, emphasized the company’s strategy, stating, “At Cipla, we strive to dial-up our focus and investment towards innovative modalities and bring new age therapies to emerging countries, including India. The follow-on investment in Ethris will help get cutting-edge healthcare solutions like mRNA-based therapies to the Global South.” This partnership is expected to not only cater to the immediate needs of the healthcare sector but also prepare the ground for future advancements in mRNA technology.

Dr. Carsten Rudolph, CEO of Ethris, expressed gratitude for the continued partnership with Cipla, highlighting the broad potential of Ethris’s technology to transform the treatment landscape for respiratory and systemic diseases. Ethris’s work focuses on using its advanced RNA and lipidoid nanoparticle technology to develop new therapeutic proteins directly targeted at the respiratory system, optimizing delivery via nebulization.

This investment marks a significant milestone in the biotechnology industry, demonstrating Cipla’s ongoing commitment to fostering innovation in healthcare and providing advanced treatment options worldwide. The collaboration between Cipla and Ethris is poised to bring transformative solutions to the market, potentially improving the lives of millions suffering from severe health conditions.