The Enzyme Play That Could Rewrite RNA Manufacturing

New data shows Codexis’ enzyme-based process scaling RNA drug manufacturing with cleaner, faster results.

29 Jun 2025

Codexis is giving RNA drug manufacturing a major upgrade. The company has unveiled fresh results on its ECO Synthesis platform, an enzyme-driven method for producing siRNA therapies that promises to make the process faster, cleaner, and easier to scale.

The new data, presented in six sessions at TIDES USA 2025, highlighted improvements in batch consistency and production efficiency. First introduced in 2023, ECO Synthesis replaces traditional chemical methods with engineered enzymes, cutting down on waste and reducing environmental impact.

“Our platform answers a growing industry need for both quality and sustainability,” a company spokesperson told attendees. Codexis says its process can be scaled up without overhauling existing workflows, a key advantage as drugmakers navigate tighter manufacturing rules in the US and Europe.

The timing is strategic. RNA-based treatments are surging in popularity for their ability to target genetic diseases, but producing them in large volumes remains a challenge. By avoiding problematic by-products and trimming inefficiencies, Codexis’ enzyme-first approach aims to remove that bottleneck.

Analysts note the potential for reduced costs and faster timelines to market, two top priorities for pharmaceutical companies. Still, questions linger about how the process performs in full industrial production and how Codexis will protect its proprietary enzymes from rivals.

One factor setting Codexis apart is its openness. By sharing performance data early, the company is helping shape new standards for RNA drug manufacturing. That transparency is drawing industry attention and adding to its credibility.

If ECO Synthesis continues to deliver at scale, it could redefine how RNA medicines are made—and how quickly they can reach patients who need them.