December 13, 2023

Chinese biotechnology firm Jinyu Bio-Technology experienced a 2.4% surge in its share price after unveiling ambitious plans to develop an mRNA vaccine for African swine fever (ASF), YiCai Global reported.

The stock reached its highest closing price since late May, closing at CNY 10.61 (US$1.48).

The company's subsidiary, Spirit Jinyu Biological Pharmaceutical, recently entered a collaborative agreement with Shanghai-based RNA Cure to create a safe and effective mRNA vaccine targeting African swine fever. While no globally approved mRNA vaccine for animals currently exists, Jinyu Bio-Tech acknowledges uncertainties and risks associated with the project.

The Hohhot-based company did not disclose specific financial details of the project but emphasized that both firms have defined rights, interests, intellectual property rights, and payment periods for research and development funds. The joint ownership of the antigen technology obtained in the project was also confirmed.

RNA Cure brings its mRNA drug development technology platform to the collaboration, with a focus on mRNA vaccines for animals since 2019. They have already validated the safety of mRNA jabs for various species, including swine. Notably, Chinese regulators recently granted emergency use authorization for an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine developed by RNA Cure in partnership with human vaccine maker Walvax Biotechnology.

-      YiCai Global