Moderna to Acquire OriCiro Genomics for $85 Million

By Dean Seal

Moderna Inc. has signed an agreement to purchase Tokyo-based OriCiro Genomics K.K. for $85 million.

The biotechnology company said Wednesday that OriCiro, which it describes as a pioneer in cell-free DNA synthesis and amplification technologies, would bolster its suite of mRNA manufacturing and research and development.

"With this acquisition, we obtain best-in-class tools for cell-free synthesis and amplification of plasmid DNA, a key building block in mRNA manufacturing," Moderna Chief Executive Stéphane Bancel said.

Moderna shares rose 1.3% to $181.33 in premarket trading.

Write to Dean Seal at [e-mail]

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

01-04-23 0739ET