Polish RNA Technology Platform

RNA: a breakthrough that makes it possible to treat disease at its source

The development of RNA technology is one of the most important breakthroughs in modern medicine. For the first time, it is becoming possible to address the root cause of disease at the level of genes. Instead of acting on already formed abnormal proteins, these therapies work by intervening in genetic information or in the way it is read. This means we can modify the instructions for protein production or block the formation of harmful proteins. As a result, the body produces the correct proteins or prevents the production of abnormal ones, which is often enough to halt disease progression and opens the way to treating conditions previously considered incurable—especially where traditional medicines fall short.

New infrastructure, greater security: Poland joins the group of countries developing RNA medicines

The investment carried out by Polpharma, in cooperation with scientific partners and with public funding support, is an important step in building Poland’s capabilities in this strategic area. The launch of the RNA drug development line is a milestone that goes beyond a single industrial project. It marks Poland’s entry into the narrow group of countries developing the most advanced therapeutic technologies, while also tangibly strengthening the country’s medicine security and technological independence.

“Polpharma’s ambition is for the technologies of the future not only to be developed, but also implemented in Poland. The launch of the RNA-based drug development line is a unique investment—the only operating facility of its kind in the country—and one that translates into a real strengthening of medicine security and technological sovereignty. Thanks to cooperation with scientific partners and the support of public funds, we are able to build in Poland the capabilities needed to compete in the most advanced areas of the pharmaceutical industry,” says Sebastian Szymanek, CEO of the Polpharma Group.

“Pomerania has consistently strengthened its position as a region open to modern technologies, innovation, and cooperation between science, business, and public administration. The investment carried out by Polpharma in Starogard Gdański shows that projects of strategic importance—not only for the Polish economy, but also for Europe’s health security—can be developed in our region. It is also an excellent example of the effective use of public funding and European funds, which not only strengthen medicine security but also support the development of the Polish economy, modern capabilities, and innovation. We are pleased that the private capital and expertise of Polish companies can serve as a driver for the development of advanced technologies right here in Pomerania. The Pomeranian Voivodeship self-government declares its readiness to continue supporting initiatives that build the region’s economic and technological potential,” says Mieczysław Struk, Marshal of the Pomeranian Voivodeship.

Scale of the investment: PLN 238.7 million for the RNA platform and capabilities in Poland

The total value of Polpharma’s investments in the development of the RNA platform amounts to PLN 238.7 million, of which approximately PLN 152 million is the company’s own contribution, while PLN 86.7 million comes from public funding (the Medical Research Agency and the National Centre for Research and Development). The project is an example of the effective use of public financing to unlock significant private capital and build lasting assets in the economy—namely infrastructure, technological capabilities, and intellectual property.

Distinctive capabilities: from API to the finished medicinal product

The key differentiator of this investment is not infrastructure alone, but its comprehensive, end-to-end nature. Polpharma is building in Poland a full technological and analytical platform that covers the entire value chain: from active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) synthesis, through process development and quality control, to the manufacturing of finished medicinal products. The company is developing its own medicines, building a project portfolio and intellectual property in Poland. Under this model, Polpharma remains the only entity in Poland combining API and finished product development in the RNA field.

Flexible manufacturing and real therapeutic impact—from rare diseases to larger volumes

The investment is also highly significant in the context of the global market structure. At present, RNA technologies and oligonucleotide production are largely dominated by entities outside the European Union, particularly in Asia. The development of capabilities in Poland forms part of the broader effort to build European technological sovereignty and reduce dependence on external suppliers, while also creating a basis for exporting technologies and products and strengthening Poland’s position in the European biotechnology value chain.

The new infrastructure will enable the implementation of Single Use Systems, ensuring a high degree of flexibility—from very small batches typical of therapies for rare diseases to larger volumes. This approach makes it possible to adapt processes more quickly to the needs of clinical development and the market, reduce changeover times, and maintain high quality standards in an environment where every stage of manufacturing is of critical importance.

What this means for patients and the healthcare system?

The development of RNA technology has direct significance for patients and for the healthcare system. RNA-based therapies are used, among others, in neurology, metabolic diseases, cardiology, and hepatology, increasing the chances of treating genetically based diseases as well as conditions requiring precise intervention in specific molecular mechanisms.

“There is an intense global race underway to develop RNA technologies. Countries that build capabilities in this area today will be the beneficiaries of this market in the decades to come. The investment carried out by Polpharma positions Poland in this strategic segment of the future economy, strengthening its competitiveness and innovation potential. The ceremonial opening of the Polish RNA Technology Platform marks a symbolic moment in Poland’s transition from a recipient of RNA technology to its co-creator,” adds Sebastian Szymanek, CEO of the Polpharma Group.