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mRNA Characterization Services

Accelerate Your mRNA Therapeutic Development With Precise, High-Resolution Analytical Solutions

Messenger RNA (mRNA) therapeutics and vaccines require rigorous, science-driven analytical characterization to ensure identity, purity, potency, integrity, safety, and long-term stability across research, preclinical and commercial manufacturing stages. Our comprehensive mRNA characterization and analytical development platform combines industry-leading technologies, including LC-MS, HPLC/UPLC, CE, NGS, qPCR/ddPCR, and advanced LNP analytics, with deep expertise in CMC and method development. We support biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and RNA-based therapeutic developers with high-precision data, validated methods, and IND-ready analytical packages, empowering partners to accelerate development timelines, mitigate risks, and confidently advance high-quality mRNA candidates into commercial success.

mRNA Characterization Method mRNA Characterization Method

Why mRNA Characterization Matters

Accurate and comprehensive mRNA characterization is essential for developing safe, effective, and regulatory-ready mRNA therapeutics. High-quality analytical data ensures product consistency, de-risks CMC development, and supports smooth progression from research through preclinical and commercial manufacturing.

Identity Verification: Confirms the correct mRNA sequence, structure, 5' cap, and poly(A) tail to ensure proper biological function.

Purity & Impurity Profiling: Detects dsRNA, template DNA, enzymes, solvents, and other critical impurities that impact safety and immunogenicity.

Potency Evaluation: Measures translation efficiency and protein expression to validate therapeutic activity.

Stability Assessment: Determines how mRNA degrades under stress or storage conditions to define shelf life and formulation requirements.

Batch-to-Batch Consistency: Ensures manufacturing reproducibility and robustness across scales and production sites.

LNP-mRNA Quality Control: Evaluates encapsulation efficiency, particle size, and integrity for lipid nanoparticle-formulated mRNA products.

Our mRNA Characterization Capabilities

Our mRNA characterization platform delivers high-resolution, regulatory-aligned analytical testing designed to support every stage of mRNA therapeutic development—from early discovery to commercial manufacturing. We combine advanced analytical technologies with deep CMC and regulatory expertise to generate precise, actionable data for biotech and pharmaceutical partners.

Structural & Chemical Identity Analysis

We ensure that your mRNA molecule is structurally accurate and functionally competent.

Capabilities include:

  • Full-length integrity confirmation to detect truncation, degradation, or incomplete synthesis
  • 5' cap structure and capping efficiency analysis (Cap0/Cap1 ratio determination)
  • Poly(A) tail length distribution profiling to support translation efficiency
  • Nucleotide composition and sequence verification via NGS or LC-MS/MS
  • Secondary structure assessment to predict folding and functional stability

Business value: Ensures therapeutic effectiveness, reduces early development risks, and supports CMC documentation.

Purity & Impurity Profiling

We identify and quantify impurities that impact mRNA safety, immunogenicity, and regulatory compliance.

Capabilities include:

  • dsRNA impurity detection using ELISA or antibody-based assays
  • Residual template DNA quantification via qPCR/ddPCR
  • Enzyme residuals (T7 polymerase, RNase, DNase) measurement through ELISA
  • Solvent and small-molecule impurity analysis via GC-MS
  • Truncated RNA and aggregate profiling using Bioanalyzer/CE platforms

Business value: Establishes impurity control strategies required by FDA/EMA guidelines and strengthens submission packages.

Impurity Type Source / Cause Detection Method Technologies / Instruments Typical Acceptance Criteria
Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) IVT reaction by-productsdsRNA-specific dot blot / ELISAAnti-dsRNA antibody assay, ELISA readerAs low as technically feasible
Residual DNA (Template DNA) Plasmid template carryoverqPCR / ddPCRqPCR cycler, ddPCR systemTypically < 10 ng per dose
Enzyme Residuals (T7 polymerase, DNase, RNase) IVT or purification impuritiesELISAEnzyme-specific ELISA kitsBelow assay detection limit
Nucleotide & Capping Reagent Residues Incomplete purificationHPLC / UPLCHPLC-UV, UPLC-MSBased on process-specific limits
Solvent Impurities (Ethanol, buffers) Chromatography or LNP prepGC-MSGas Chromatography–MSRegulatory guideline–aligned
Truncated / Fragmented RNA Degradation or abortive transcriptionBioanalyzer / Fragment AnalyzerCE, BioanalyzerIntact RNA ≥ defined threshold
Uncapped / Partially Capped RNA Incomplete capping reactionLC-MS / HPLCLC-MS/MS, RP-HPLCCapping efficiency ≥ 90–95%
Protein Impurities Residual proteins from enzymesCE-SDS / ELISACE-SDS, microplate readerBelow assay detection limit
Lipid Residuals (LNP products) Unencapsulated lipids or excess excipientsHPLC / TLCHPLC-UV, Thin Layer ChromatographyProcess-specific limits
Particle Impurities / Aggregates LNP aggregation or RNA aggregationDLS / TEMDLS system, Cryo-TEMSize & PDI within target window

mRNA Quantification & Potency Testing

We measure the functional performance and therapeutic potential of your mRNA.

Capabilities include:

  • Accurate mRNA quantification (RiboGreen, UV spectroscopy, qPCR/ddPCR)
  • In vitro translation efficiency assays to evaluate functional potency
  • Protein expression assays using flow cytometry or ELISA
  • Encapsulation efficiency evaluation for LNP-formulated mRNA

Business value: Delivers data needed for dose justification, potency assays, and release testing.

Stability Testing & Degradation Pathway Analysis

We evaluate mRNA behavior under a range of environmental and stress conditions.

Capabilities include:

  • Accelerated and long-term stability studies aligned with ICH Q1
  • Freeze-thaw cycle robustness testing
  • Thermal, enzymatic, and UV stress degradation analysis
  • Degradation product identification via UPLC and MS
  • Shelf-life and storage condition determination

Business value: Supports formulation optimization, storage strategy, and stability-indicating method development.

LNP-mRNA Characterization

For mRNA delivered via lipid nanoparticles, we provide full analytical support.

Capabilities include:

  • Particle size, distribution, and PDI measurement via DLS
  • Morphology assessment using Cryo-TEM
  • Encapsulation efficiency quantification
  • Residual solvent testing for manufacturing quality
  • LNP integrity and release profile evaluation under stress conditions

Business value: Essential for vaccine and therapeutic developers using LNP delivery systems, ensuring robust formulation performance.

Method Development, Optimization & Validation

We develop, refine, and validate analytical methods aligned with regulatory expectations.

Capabilities include:

  • De novo assay development customized to your mRNA construct
  • Analytical method optimization and robustness testing
  • Method qualification or validation
  • Method transfer to internal or external GMP manufacturing partners

Business value: Critical for progressing into IND/IMPD submissions and GMP manufacturing.

Capability Area Key Tests / Assays Technologies / Instruments Typical Outputs
Structural & Chemical Identity Analysis
  • Full-length mRNA integrity
  • 5' cap structure & capping efficiency
  • Poly(A) tail length analysis
  • Sequence verification
  • Secondary structure assessment
  • LC-MS/MS
  • HPLC (RP/IE)
  • CE
  • NGS / Sanger Sequencing
  • Bioanalyzer / Fragment Analyzer
  • Structural maps
  • Cap0/Cap1 ratio
  • Poly(A) distribution curves
  • Sequence confirmation
  • Integrity electropherograms
Purity & Impurity Profiling
  • dsRNA impurities
  • Template DNA residuals
  • Enzyme/protein residuals
  • Solvent/chemical impurities
  • Aggregates and truncated RNA
  • Dot blot / ELISA
  • qPCR/ddPCR
  • CE-SDS
  • GC-MS
  • HPLC/UPLC
  • Impurity quantification
  • dsRNA levels
  • Residual DNA values
  • Chromatographic purity profiles
mRNA Quantification & Potency
  • mRNA concentration
  • In vitro translation efficiency
  • Protein expression potency
  • LNP encapsulation efficiency (if applicable)
  • RiboGreen fluorescence
  • qPCR/ddPCR
  • LC-MS protein quantification
  • Flow cytometry / ELISA
  • Concentration values
  • Potency index
  • Expression data/curves
  • Encapsulation
Stability Testing & Degradation Analysis
  • Thermal degradation
  • Freeze–thaw cycles
  • UV and enzymatic stress
  • Long-term/accelerated stability
  • Degradation pathway mapping
  • UPLC
  • CE
  • MS
  • Electrophoresis
  • Bioanalyzer
  • Stability curves
  • Degradation profiles
  • Stress-condition comparisons
LNP-mRNA Characterization
  • Particle size & PDI
  • Zeta potential
  • Encapsulation efficiency
  • Residual solvent
  • LNP integrity & release profile
  • DLS
  • Cryo-TEM
  • HPLC
  • GC-MS
  • Fluorescence assays
  • Particle size charts
  • Morphology images
  • Encapsulation data
  • Residual solvent results

Technologies & Instrument Platforms

High-quality mRNA characterization relies on advanced, high-resolution analytical instrumentation capable of detecting subtle structural variations, impurities, degradation pathways, and functional performance differences. Our platform integrates a broad suite of industry-standard technologies—including mass spectrometry, chromatography, electrophoresis, sequencing, PCR-based quantification, and nanoparticle characterization systems—to generate accurate, reproducible, and deeply informative data. This robust analytical infrastructure ensures that every mRNA sample is evaluated with the sensitivity, precision, and scientific rigor required for modern RNA therapeutics and delivery systems.

Platform Category Instrument / Technology Applications Key Features
Mass Spectrometry LC-MS/MS, Q-TOF MSIdentity, capping analysis, modified nucleotide detectionHigh sensitivity, structural elucidation
Chromatography HPLC (RP, IEX), UPLCPurity, nucleotides, solvent residuesHigh resolution separation
Electrophoresis Bioanalyzer, Fragment Analyzer, CEIntegrity, size distribution, truncated RNAFast, high accuracy of RNA sizing
PCR Platforms qPCR, ddPCRResidual DNA, quantificationUltra-sensitive quantification
Sequencing NGS, Sanger SequencingSequence verificationHigh-accuracy base calling
Immunoassays ELISA, Western blotdsRNA, protein/enzyme impuritiesHigh specificity detection
Spectroscopy UV-Vis, Fluorescence (RiboGreen)RNA quantificationRoutine QC measurement
LNP Characterization DLS, Cryo-TEM, NanoSightParticle size, PDI, morphologyCritical for LNP-mRNA quality
Gas Chromatography GC-MSResidual solventsSensitive to volatile impurities
Cell-Based Assays Flow cytometry, plate readerPotency, protein expressionFunctional potency verification
Thermal & Stress Platforms Stability chambersStability, degradation pathwaysCompliant stability conditions

mRNA Characterization Service Workflow

Our mRNA characterization workflow is designed for clarity, regulatory compliance, and seamless collaboration across R&D and preclinical development. Each step is transparent, auditable, and aligned with industry expectations for CMC and analytical development.

1Project Consultation & Technical Scoping

We begin with a detailed scientific consultation to understand your project goals, development stage, and regulatory requirements.

Scope includes:

  • mRNA type (IVT mRNA, saRNA, circRNA, LNP-mRNA)
  • Target use (research, IND, GMP release)
  • Required analytical assays
  • Sample quantity & specifications
  • Timeline and reporting format

Deliverable: Customized technical proposal & quotation.

2Method Development & Optimization

Our analytical team designs or transfers assays based on your molecule's characteristics.

Activities include:

  • Assay design for identity, purity, potency, and impurity profiling
  • Optimization of LC-MS, HPLC, CE, qPCR, NGS, etc.
  • Establishing detection limits, specificity, repeatability
  • Method robustness testing

Deliverable: Validated or qualified analytical methods ready for sample testing.

3Sample Receipt & Quality Verification

Upon sample arrival, we perform:

  • Integrity confirmation
  • Quantity and concentration verification
  • Storage condition assessment
  • Chain-of-custody documentation

Deliverable: Sample verification report prior to analytics.

4Analytical Testing & Data Generation

This is the core phase of characterization.

Testing may include:

  • Structural identity (cap structure, poly(A) tail, full-length mapping)
  • Purity / impurity profiling (dsRNA, residual DNA/RNase, solvents)
  • Potency / translation efficiency
  • Stability studies (accelerated, long-term, freeze-thaw)
  • LNP-specific assays (particle size, encapsulation efficiency)

Deliverable: Raw data, chromatograms, gel images, and preliminary results.

5Data Analysis, Review & Interpretation

Our senior scientists perform in-depth data review to ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance.

Analysis includes:

  • Peak assignment and impurity quantification
  • Statistical evaluation
  • Method performance assessment
  • Interpretation of functional relevance

Deliverable: Scientific summary highlighting key analytical findings.

6Ongoing Technical Support & Follow-Up

We provide continued support throughout your development pipeline.

Services include:

  • Method transfer to your facility or CDMO
  • Additional batch testing
  • GMP upgrade options
  • Assistance with regulatory submissions

Deliverable: Continuous partnership ensuring long-term project success.

What Sets Our Platform Apart

Our mRNA characterization platform is purpose-built for biotechnology and pharmaceutical innovators who need fast, accurate, and high-resolution analytical insights. We combine scientific depth, advanced instrumentation, and a customer-centric service model to accelerate your mRNA development with confidence.

  • High-Resolution Analytical Precision: We leverage advanced LC-MS, HPLC/UPLC, CE, sequencing, and LNP characterization technologies to deliver exceptionally clear and reliable data for every assay.
  • Deep Scientific Expertise in mRNA Technologies: Our team brings extensive experience in mRNA synthesis, modification, purification, and analytical workflows—ensuring meaningful interpretations and problem-solving support.
  • End-to-End Characterization Coverage: From structural identity and impurity profiling to potency, stability, and LNP analysis, we offer a full analytical portfolio under one integrated platform.
  • Flexible, Customizable Testing Strategies: We tailor every analytical package to your molecule, platform, and development needs, ensuring optimal methods for each unique construct or formulation.
  • Fast Turnaround and Streamlined Communication: Clear timelines, dedicated project coordination, and efficient reporting keep your programs moving without delays.
  • Scalable Support for Programs of Any Size: Whether you are optimizing early research candidates or expanding into pilot-scale production, our scalable solutions adapt to your evolving mRNA development needs.

Applications Across the Entire mRNA Product Lifecycle

Our mRNA characterization platform supports every stage of therapeutic development—from early discovery to commercial manufacturing. Each application area is backed by specialized analytical capabilities and regulatory-aligned methodologies.

mRNA Vaccines (Infectious Diseases & Oncology)

  • Verification of antigen-coding sequence integrity
  • Capping efficiency & poly(A) tail analysis for enhanced translation
  • dsRNA impurity profiling to reduce innate immune activation
  • Potency evaluation via in vitro translation or protein expression
  • LNP characterization for vaccine formulation stability

mRNA Protein Replacement Therapies

  • Full-length transcript confirmation for therapeutic proteins
  • Purity assessment to ensure safety in chronic dosing regimens
  • Stability testing to support long-term storage and logistics
  • Residual DNA, RNase, and reagent quantification
  • Structural analysis to correlate mRNA features with expression efficiency

Self-Amplifying mRNA (saRNA) Therapeutics

  • Genome-length RNA integrity verification
  • dsRNA and abortive product profiling
  • Cap structure and replication element analysis
  • Potency testing including replicon-driven expression
  • Stability and degradation pathway characterization

Circular mRNA (circRNA) Development

  • Circularization efficiency measurement
  • Detection of linear RNA contaminants
  • Sequence confirmation and junction-site mapping
  • Potency testing for sustained protein expression
  • Stability studies under various stress conditions

LNP Formulation Development & Optimization

  • Encapsulation efficiency quantification
  • Particle size, PDI, and morphology assessment
  • LNP integrity during freeze-thaw and accelerated stability studies
  • N/P ratio optimization through analytical readouts
  • Release and degradation profiling under different formulation conditions

Process Development & Scale-Up Support

  • In-process control (IPC) assays for mRNA synthesis steps
  • Impurity tracking during purification workflow optimization
  • Comparability studies for process changes or tech transfer
  • Analytical method development for pilot-scale and GMP batches
  • Batch-to-batch consistency evaluation

Advance Your mRNA Therapeutics With High-Precision Analytical Expertise

High-quality mRNA characterization is the foundation of safe, potent, and regulatory-ready mRNA therapeutics. Whether you are developing a vaccine, protein-replacement therapy, saRNA platform, or next-generation LNP formulation, our analytical scientists provide the accuracy, depth, and regulatory alignment required for confident decision-making at every development stage.

Partner With a Scientific Team That Understands Your Molecule.

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