New Facility Opens for San Diego Biotech Company Producing mRNA for COVID-19 Vaccine

TriLink BioTechnologies, a San Diego-based biotech company, has made significant strides in the field of mRNA production, playing a crucial role in the global distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine. From working with local biotechs to partnering with pharmaceutical giants like Pfizer-Biontech, TriLink has now opened a new manufacturing site to meet the growing demand for mRNA-based treatments.

The new 32,000 square feet manufacturing site, located at 10247 Flanders Court, is focused on mRNA production and is part of a larger investment of approximately $130 million into expanding mRNA manufacturing. With the success of the COVID-19 vaccine, more companies are exploring mRNA as a potential vehicle for new treatments, and TriLink is ready to meet that demand.

Drew Burch, president of nucleic acid products at TriLink, highlighted the shift towards using mRNA for other diseases beyond COVID-19. Companies are now applying this technology to flu and RSV vaccines, with approvals expected in the coming year.

Kevin Lynch, who heads operations at the new facility, emphasized TriLink’s role in supporting companies from clinical trials to commercial drug production. The company also plays a crucial role in quality control during production, ensuring that medicines meet regulatory standards before reaching consumers.

In addition to TriLink’s success, other local biotech companies in San Diego are also making waves in the industry. Endeavor BioMedicines raised over $132 million to advance its lead drug candidate for lung diseases, while Alterome Therapeutics secured $132 million in funding to develop small molecule therapies for cancer. Enlaza Therapeutics also received $100 million to develop a new approach to treating cancer and other diseases.

Overall, the biotech industry in San Diego is thriving, with companies like TriLink leading the way in innovative treatments and technologies.