Arcturus Therapeutics
Arcturus Therapeutics is a San Diego-based global late-stage clinical company specializing in mRNA medicines and vaccines, with a focus on rare diseases and infectious diseases. The company has developed the first approved self-amplifying mRNA COVID vaccine and has a diverse pipeline of RNA therapeutic candidates and partnered vaccine programs.
Company Overview
Arcturus Therapeutics is a San Diego, California-based global late-stage clinical company specializing in messenger RNA medicines and vaccines. The company's focus includes the discovery, development, and commercialization of therapeutics for rare diseases and vaccines. Arcturus is renowned for its proprietary technologies, strategic partnerships, and a veteran team skilled in RNA-based therapeutics. Their efforts have yielded the world's first approved self-amplifying messenger RNA (sa-mRNA) COVID vaccine, named Kostaive®.
Proprietary Technologies
Arcturus Therapeutics boasts several cutting-edge proprietary technologies. Key among them are the LUNAR® lipid-mediated delivery system and STARR® mRNA Technology platforms. These platforms support the development of various nucleic acid medicines, ranging from messenger RNA and small interfering RNA to gene editing therapeutics. The company maintains an extensive patent portfolio, with over 400 patents and applications across the U.S., Europe, Japan, China, and other markets.
Partnerships and Collaborations
Arcturus Therapeutics collaborates globally to advance its mRNA technology. Notably, the company is partnered with CSL Seqirus for innovative mRNA vaccine projects. Additionally, it has a joint venture in Japan called ARCALIS, which focuses on manufacturing mRNA vaccines and therapeutics. Arcturus also collaborates with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to develop mRNA therapies targeting cystic fibrosis.
Pipeline and Clinical Programs
Arcturus Therapeutics has a robust pipeline of RNA therapeutic candidates. Key programs include LUNAR-OTC for ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency and LUNAR-CF for cystic fibrosis. The LUNAR-OTC program is in Phase 2 clinical trials, and the LUNAR-CF program is in Phase 1. The company is also developing mRNA medicines for other rare diseases and collaborating with partners on preclinical developments. Their LUNAR-COV19 (ARCT-154) COVID-19 vaccine has received approval in Japan and has an active Marketing Authorization Application in the EU.
Vaccine Development
Arcturus Therapeutics is at the forefront of vaccine development, particularly through its mRNA technology. Their COVID-19 vaccine, LUNAR®-COV19 (ARCT-154), has demonstrated superior immunogenicity against the Omicron BA.4/5 variant compared to first-generation mRNA vaccine boosters. The company is also engaged in developing mRNA vaccines for influenza and other infectious diseases in collaboration with CSL Seqirus.