4basebio PLC announced that it has commenced the development of its pilot clean room project for the purpose of manufacturing GMP standard DNA. The manufacturing capacity is being developed in a dedicated 4,400 square feet facility (“the Facility”) with the installation expected to be completed before the end of 2021. The Facility will provide for seven DNA production suites which, when fully operational, will be capable of generating quantities of DNA with a value in excess of £25 million per annum (based on current market prices and depending on customer order batch sizes). Once completed, the Facility will undergo testing and validation with a view to becoming operational during H1 2022. The Company then plans to manufacture and sell research and pre-clinical grade DNA while working towards securing GMP accreditation. The Company will initially focus on the sale of DNA for use in AAV vectors, a common method of delivering gene therapies; and In Vitro Transcription, where DNA is the template for the manufacture of mRNA. For both products, DNA is a critical starting material. The decision to develop the clean rooms in a dedicated facility was taken following consideration of the overall space requirements for the DNA and nanoparticle sides of the business. In order to develop the manufacturing capacity required, 4basebio UK, a subsidiary of the Company, has secured a long term lease for the Facility. The earmarked capital commitment for this project is about £1.5 million. Consistent with previous indications, the Company has a cash runway into 2023 and will also be able to draw on the £22m debt facility with its former parent company, if necessary.