First high-performance line for the aseptic production of microneedle patches

Microarray Patches (MAPs) contain thousands of microneedles. Vaxxas and Harro Höfliger are developing lines for their production. (Photo: Vaxxas)

The Australian biotech company Vaxxas and Harro Höfliger have announced a strategic partnership. As part of the collaboration, the world's first high-performance line for the production of micro-needle patches (Microarray Patches, MAPs) will be established. The pilot line is scheduled to go into operation in 2021; planned output is up to five million MAPs per week.

Micro-needle patches could, among other things, contribute to rapid and widespread vaccination during pandemics – they immunize with a lower vaccine dose than conventional methods, do not require a cold chain, and can be self-administered by the patient. Vaxxas' HD-MAP measures only 9x9mm and contains thousands of micro-needles coated with vaccine. Initial studies have demonstrated the stability of the vaccine over a period of 12 months at a temperature of 40 degrees.

"We look forward to working with Harro Höfliger on the high-performance production of micro-needle patches," says David L. Hoey, President and CEO of Vaxxas. "A particular challenge in the commercialization of MAPs with vaccine is to maintain strict sterility and quality standards even at high production volumes. With our new patch design combined with an innovative coating technology and Harro Höfliger's sterile production platforms, we are perfectly equipped for this."

Thomas Weller, CEO of Harro Höfliger, is also looking forward to the collaboration: "Our engineers and aseptic experts have extensive experience in developing tailored processes for fully automated production of new products, even under sterile conditions. We are excited to develop these new production lines together with the Vaxxas team."