The EIC-funded Yscript project, running from April 2022 to September 2025, has successfully demonstrated the proof-of-concept for producing messenger RNA (mRNA) using yeast cells, marking a significant milestone and paving the way for a groundbreaking shift in mRNA manufacturing.
Yscript set out with a bold and pioneering mission: to create a tailor-made yeast-based “mRNA factory” platform capable of producing low-cost, large-scale mRNA for drugs and vaccines – an alternative to the costly and complex in vitro transcription (IVT) methods currently in use. Although yeast is widely used in biopharmaceuticals, it had never before been employed to produce mRNA. This made the undertaking highly innovative – but also inherently risky.

To mark the project’s conclusion, a closing video has been released featuring partner reflections, lab insights, and the journey from idea to result: ▶ Watch the video: Yscript Voices – Project partners summarise 3.5 years of mRNA manufacturing

Project Facts

• Title: Yeast Cell Factory for mRNA Bioproduction

• Duration: April 2022 – September 2025

• Budget: €3,078,249.75

• Coordinator: Université d’Orléans, Prof. Chantal Pichon

• Partners: UO, INRAE-TWB, UAVR-CICECO, UBI, TRON, EURICE, IBCH-PAS, BIASep

• Website: Yscript | Yscript

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/yscript-eu

• YouTube: Yscript YouTube Channel