VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc. (VLPT Japan) and the Research Foundation for Microbial Diseases of Osaka University (BIKEN Foundation) together announced on September 14 the conclusion of a memorandum of understanding between them on a potential business alliance on research, development, production, and sales of “replicon” RNA COVID-19 vaccines. Based on this memorandum the two organizations will negotiate the terms and conditions of the alliance, in a bid to reach a definitive agreement by the end of 2023. Currently a series of discussions on the framework for cooperation in the R&D to sales processes and other items are underway.

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About VLP Therapeutics Japan: VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc. (VLPT Japan), founded in 2020 by Dr. Wataru Akahata originally as a wholly owned subsidiary of US-based VLP Therapeutics, Inc. (VLPT), is a Tokyo-based biotech company. VLPT Japan is currently engaged in research and development of prophylactic vaccines against infectious diseases, including COVID-19, influenza, and dengue. The COVID-19 project is funded by the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED) and the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. | VLPT, co-founded in 2013 by Drs. Wataru Akahata, Ryuji Ueno, and Sachiko Kuno, is a Maryland, US-based biotech company with a mission to address unmet medical needs worldwide and expand the frontiers of vaccine treatment. VLPT is currently engaged in research and development of a cancer treatment vaccine as well as prophylactic vaccines against infectious diseases including malaria and dengue.

About the Research Foundation for Microbial Diseases of Osaka University (BIKEN Foundation): The BIKEN is a Specialty Bio-Pharmaceutical Organization engaged in the Research, Development and Supply of Vaccines. Since its establishment in 1934, BIKEN has contributed to public health by developing, manufacturing and supplying a number of first vaccines made in Japan and providing advanced laboratory test services. Based on its mission “Protect the precious lives of people around the world through excellent vaccines.” the BIKEN will continue to pursue the advancement of advanced science and unique biotechnology toward a healthy society free from disease anxiety.

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