Fraunhofer IMM, part of the globally renowned Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with CATUG, Basel, Switzerland. This strategic collaboration will drive joint research and development initiatives, particularly in the fields of nucleic acids and nanoparticle technology.

CATUG is a pioneering contract service provider in RNA therapeutics and LNP formulations. The collaboration between Fraunhofer IMM and CATUG will leverage their combined expertise in sustainable technologies, scalable nanoformulation systems, and advanced nanoanalytics. Together, the partnership aims to accelerate innovation in therapeutic solutions, particularly in RNA and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations.

The MoU outlines joint research projects and contract research opportunities in nucleic acid technologies, offering the possibility for both parties to work on groundbreaking R&D initiatives. Fraunhofer IMM and CATUG will exchange technical information, and explore new avenues for collaboration, with flexibility to allow third-party participation on a project-by-project basis.

“This MoU with CATUG opens up exciting new opportunities for joint research in nucleic acid technologies, an area with immense potential for therapeutic applications,” said Dr. Regina Bleul, Head of Nanomedicine at Fraunhofer IMM. “Our cutting-edge micromixer technology for nanoformulation development aligns perfectly with CATUG’s innovation-driven approach, and we look forward to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in this space.”

CATUG also expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. “We are thrilled to partner with Fraunhofer IMM, a leader in applied research with a proven track record of pushing the boundaries of scientific innovation,” said Lin Jin, Co-founder and President of CATUG. “By combining our strength in RNA therapeutics with Fraunhofer IMM's deep expertise in nanoparticle technology, we are positioning ourselves to make significant progress in the field of nanomedicine. This collaboration is a major step forward in our mission to bring next-generation therapies to patients faster and more effectively.”

Through this collaboration, Fraunhofer IMM and CATUG will work together to explore future opportunities in cutting-edge scientific areas that will have a profound impact on global health and sustainability. Both organizations are committed to driving innovation and creating new solutions that meet the challenges of tomorrow.

About Fraunhofer IMM:

Fraunhofer IMM, based in Mainz, Germany, focuses on critical areas such as clean energy, sustainability, and health. As part of Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, the world’s leading applied research organization, Fraunhofer IMM delivers cutting-edge R&D services across energy, chemistry, and diagnostics.

About CATUG:

CATUG, headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, is known for its rapid and flexible approach to providing contract research, development, and GMP manufacturing services across the RNA therapeutic pipeline. The company specializes in the development of plasmid DNA, mRNA, siRNA, lipid nanoparticles and offers a wide spectrum of analytical service for sample QC.