Brazil Establishes First RNA Competence Center to Bolster Public Health Autonomy
São Paulo, Brazil – In a significant move to enhance national health security and technological sovereignty, Brazil has announced the accreditation of its first competence center dedicated to Messenger RNA (mRNA) technology. The initiative, unveiled by Minister Alexandre Padilha at the Federation of Industries of the State of São Paulo (FIESP) headquarters, aims to internalize knowledge, cultivate talent, and strengthen Brazil’s capacity in a critical area of public health. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) will also participate in this endeavor.
The growing popularity of mRNA technology, especially in vaccine progress during the COVID-19 pandemic, stems from its ability to enable the body to defend itself against viruses without requiring exposure to the actual microorganism, a departure from traditional vaccine production methods using inactivated agents.
Álvaro Prata, president of Embrapii, highlighted the center’s core mission: “The goal is for this center to help brazil internalize knowledge, form talents and strengthen its autonomy in a vital area of public health, to accelerate SUS’s ability to respond to future sanitary emergencies and consolidate Brazil’s technological sovereignty in a strategic area.”
The new center will foster collaborations with startups, universities, companies, and Institutes of Science and Technology (ICTs). Key objectives include the development of priority vaccines and providing support and training to institutions across the Americas.
For the domestic production of mRNA vaccines, the Ministry of Health is investing in initiatives spearheaded by the Butantan Institute and Fiocruz (oswaldo Cruz Foundation). Embrapii, an entity linked to the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, will oversee the construction of the center, with ICTs having until August 26 to submit thier proposals.
Further bolstering the nation’s health innovation landscape, R$ 30 million was allocated for six new Embrapii units focused on biopharmaceuticals, medical devices, and digital health, with a priority on addressing the demands of the Unified Health System (SUS).
An additional R$ 60 million has been earmarked for “high impact projects,” concentrating on the development of medical devices, advanced diagnostics, and the national manufacturing of drugs and pharmochemicals.
In a parallel effort to support clinical research, the Ministry of Science, in conjunction with Finep (financier of Studies and Projects), has launched a public call for R$ 300 million in funding for innovation projects within the health sector. This funding is designated for companies engaged in the development of inputs, technological platforms for advanced therapies, high-impact biological products for public health, and innovative medical equipment.
