Québec City-based Aramis Biotechnologies has raised $80 million CAD to develop plant-based vaccines for influenza and pandemic preparedness.
The funding includes a $40 million repayable contribution from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) through the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF), a $30 million Series A round, and $10 million in loans and local government funding.
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A Second Chance for Plant-Based Vaccines
Aramis Biotechnologies was founded in 2023 by former employees of Medicago, a failed biotech firm shuttered by Mitsubishi Chemical Group. The company acquired Medicago’s intellectual property, technology platform, and manufacturing facility, aiming to advance the same cutting-edge technology that once earned Medicago international acclaim.
The company’s vaccines use recombinant vector technology, producing virus-like particles from proteins grown in Nicotiana plants, making them entirely plant-based and highly adaptable.
Nathalie Charland, Senior Director at Aramis, noted: “Our platform allows us to develop vaccines against virtually any pathogen within 20 days, provided the genetic sequence is available.”
Addressing Current Vaccine Gaps
Aramis aims to improve influenza vaccines, which currently offer only 30-60% effectiveness, particularly for older adults. Its plant-based approach promises faster production and greater efficiency compared to traditional methods.
While no vaccine doses were purchased under this agreement, Aramis is poised to play a pivotal role in Canada’s pandemic response capabilities, building on the lessons from Medicago’s challenges.
Oversight and Strategic Partnerships
The SIF funding will focus on Aramis’ vaccine development project, not the company’s operations. Aramis is also collaborating with local and international entities to build partnerships and optimize its processes.
Benjamin Kreitman, Principal at Broadview Ventures, commented: “This innovative approach to plant-based vaccines could significantly enhance preparedness for future pandemics while addressing ongoing gaps in flu vaccine efficacy.”
With this funding, Aramis Biotechnologies is set to reinvigorate the promise of plant-based vaccines, providing a sustainable and scalable solution for global health challenges.
