Moderna Partners with Nanexa to Develop Long-Acting Injectable mRNA Medicines

December 12, 2025 — Moderna, the global leader in mRNA technology, has signed a strategic licensing agreement with Swedish biotech Nanexa to utilize the PharmaShell drug delivery platform. The partnership aims to engineer tailored release profiles for mRNA therapeutics, allowing for controlled, long-term delivery of mRNA-based drugs via a single injection.

Under the terms of the agreement, Moderna will pay an initial $3 million to develop five initial mRNA compounds, with the option to expand the deal to an additional four compounds. Nanexa is eligible to receive up to $500 million in development and commercial milestones, plus royalties, as the mRNA specialist integrates this protective coating technology into its pipeline.

Engineering Sustained Release for mRNA

The PharmaShell platform solves a critical challenge for mRNA medicines: the need for frequent dosing. By applying a nanometer-thick protective film of non-toxic materials—such as aluminum oxide or zinc oxide—around drug microparticles, the system creates a “depot” in the body.

• Tailored Release: As the protective film dissolves, the mRNA cargo is released in a pre-defined manner over time.

• Patient Compliance: This technology could transition mRNA treatments from frequent administrations to monthly or seasonal doses, significantly reducing the treatment burden.

• High Drug Load: The system allows for high concentrations of mRNA in small injection volumes, enabling the use of thinner needles for improved patient comfort.

Strategic Pivot Toward Chronic and Rare Diseases

The collaboration comes as Moderna shifts its strategic focus. While the company achieved global fame with its rapid-response mRNA vaccines, it is now diversifying its portfolio to include mRNA therapeutics for seasonal vaccines, experimental cancer treatments, and rare diseases.

“We are excited to partner with Moderna, a pioneer and leader in the field of mRNA medicines,” said Nanexa CEO David Westberg. “This agreement underscores the versatility of PharmaShell and its potential to address key challenges in the delivery of advanced biologics like mRNA.”

The market for long-lasting injectables is highly competitive, with major players like Novo Nordisk and Pfizer also aggressively pursuing “depot” formulations for chronic conditions. By incorporating PharmaShell technology, Moderna aims to ensure its mRNA medicines remain at the forefront of the industry’s shift toward less frequent, more accessible dosing.