The program will utilize IRDI's expertise in infectious diseases with Amyris' fermentation platform technology to create semisynthetic squalene-based adjuvants at scale.

The IDRI is a nonprofit global health organization that works to develop solutions for infectious diseases. IDRI's vaccine platform uses a replicating RNA molecule to express viral antigens, formulated and delivered to injection sites with a nanostructured lipid carrier system that can be stockpiled for use in future epidemic situations.

The fermentation platform replaces shark-based squalene with lower-cost sugarcane-derived squalene. Amyris' squalene adjuvant has the potential to provide large quantities to meet demand for COVID-19 vaccines. The sugarcane squalene will be certified in the late stages of commercialization.

Currently, Amyris and IDRI are working informally to advance the vaccine at an accelerated timeline. The organizations anticipate the execution of a comprehensive agreement where details of the program will be formally disclosed.