AGC Biologics, a global Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisation for Biopharmaceuticals, has collaborated with Japan-based Takara Bio, it was reported on Thursday.

The firms are collaborating on a COVID-19 prophylaxis DNA vaccine, with AGC Biologics manufacturing the plasmid DNA intermediate for the vaccine. The vaccine will be produced based on Osaka University and AnGes Inc's expertise of developing plasmid DNA products.

AGC Biologics CBO, Mark Womack, said, 'AGC Biologics is delighted to be working with Takara Bio on a project that will make a big difference for countless people. Our organisation looks forward to partnering with Takara Bio to successfully fight this global threat.'