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NewsSan Diego Business JournalJuly 29, 2026San Diego

Arcturus Therapeutics Partners with Thermo Fisher to Produce New Cystic Fibrosis Drug

Arcturus Therapeutics has entered a manufacturing agreement with Thermo Fisher Scientific to produce its experimental mRNA-based cystic fibrosis treatment, ARCT-032. The drug is currently in Phase 2 clinical trials, with the company aiming to begin Phase 3 testing by early next year.

biotechnologycystic fibrosispharmaceuticalsmRNA therapyclinical trials
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Why It Matters

This partnership secures the manufacturing capacity needed for a potential new treatment for Class 1 cystic fibrosis patients, a group that currently lacks effective options for protein-modulating therapies.

Key Facts

  • Arcturus Therapeutics is developing ARCT-032, an inhalable mRNA treatment for cystic fibrosis.
  • The drug is currently in Phase 2 clinical trials, with a Phase 3 trial planned for early next year.
  • ARCT-032 is designed for 'Class 1' cystic fibrosis patients who lack the CFTR protein and do not respond to existing modulators.
  • The treatment requires a daily dose of 10 milligrams (10,000 micrograms) over 12 weeks.
  • Thermo Fisher Scientific will fund the production of ARCT-032 for the Phase 3 trial in exchange for exclusive commercial manufacturing rights.
  • The deal does not involve equity in Arcturus or royalty payments to Thermo Fisher.
  • Cystic fibrosis affects approximately 40,000 people in the U.S. and 100,000 worldwide.
  • Arcturus reported $232.8 million in cash on hand for FY2025.
  • Arcturus employs 170 people and is headquartered in Torrey Pines, San Diego.

Who's Mentioned

organizationArcturus Therapeutics“Biotechnology company developing mRNA-based medicines.”organizationThermo Fisher Scientific“Manufacturing partner for ARCT-032.”personJoseph Payne“CEO of Arcturus Therapeutics.”organizationAmerican Lung Association“Source for cystic fibrosis prevalence statistics.”otherARCT-032“Flagship mRNA drug candidate for cystic fibrosis.”