South Korean Biotech Chaperone Partners With Swiss Nonprofit to Develop Long-Acting Malaria Prevention Drug Using Nanobody Technology

News | 2025-10-29 17:23:11
[medi・K / HEALTH IN NEWS] Chaperone, a South Korean biotechnology company, announced on Tuesday that it has entered into a strategic research collaboration with the Swiss nonprofit Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) to develop a long-acting malaria prevention drug based on nanobody technology.

The partnership was established after MMV recognized Chaperone's NanoMab platform as an innovative technology. The project combines the NanoMab platform with mRNA technology to create a vaccine that can be rapidly produced and supplied on a large scale worldwide, particularly in low-income countries.

The two organizations will design NanoMab candidates that simultaneously target single or multiple antigens of the malaria parasite, aiming for preventive effects across various stages of the parasite's life cycle.

Chaperone and the global nonprofit Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) pose for a commemorative photo after signing a joint research agreement. (Photo provided by Chaperone)
Chaperone and the global nonprofit Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) pose for a commemorative photo after signing a joint research agreement. (Photo provided by Chaperone)


Chaperone will leverage MMV's global network and resources to develop an mRNA-based NanoMab vaccine requiring only a single administration. MMV will provide financial support for clinical entry and commercialization.
The collaboration is expected to mark a turning point for Chaperone in establishing itself as a global leader in nanobody solutions for infectious diseases.

Malaria causes approximately 600,000 deaths and 250 million infections annually, with the heaviest economic burden in sub-Saharan Africa. Infants, young children, and pregnant women are the primary victims, while the social and economic toll on families—particularly women caring for patients—remains immense.

Sora Song / press@themedik.kr
Copyright © 2020 mediK. All rights reserved.

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