"We are delighted to be working with Alexandria as they are a leader in their field and it allows us to reduce the upfront capital required for the building of our new U.S. commercial grade facility," added Mr. Sheldon.

"This collaboration further highlights the emergence of plant-based platforms as viable technologies for the production of valuable products like vaccines," said Doug Dean, Senior Vice President R&D of Philip Morris International. "As Medicago have clearly demonstrated, their plant-based technology has significant benefits over traditional manufacturing methods."

During the recent H1N1 influenza outbreak, Medicago's rapid plant-based VLP vaccine technology was able to successfully develop a vaccine candidate in less than a month after identifying the H1N1 strain and is therefore one of the few technologies that can provide a solution in the case of a pandemic.

"It's vitally important to our Homeland Security that we have a robust domestic vaccine supply, and this facility will add to our production capacity helping mitigate future threats," said Congressman David Price. "Medicago's facility will ultimately bring hundreds of good paying jobs to the region, and DARPA's investment in this project is another significant contribution to local recovery efforts. This is a welcome confirmation that the Triangle continues to lead the way delivering innovative high-tech products and creating the jobs that will power a 21st Century economy." Rep. Price is the Chairman of the House Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee.

SOURCE Medicago Inc.