The partnership will see Axio BioPharma, based in Madison, WI, add Likarda’s proprietary drug delivery technologies, including its Core-Shell Spherification (CSS) hydrogel platform, into its existing discovery-to-GMP services. In turn, Kansas City-based Likarda will offer Axio’s high-quality protein manufacturing capabilities to its own client base.
The companies say the alliance will allow drug developers to align delivery strategies with scalable manufacturing earlier in development, potentially speeding up timelines, boosting efficiency, and improving therapeutic outcomes.
Justin Byers, chief executive officer of Axio BioPharma, said the deal could help reduce development friction: “This partnership brings delivery innovation directly into the development process, helping our clients move faster and make better decisions. By aligning earlier on both delivery and manufacturing, we reduce friction, shorten timelines, and provide integrated solutions that truly support our clients’ goals.”
Likarda’s CSS platform enables encapsulation, stability, and controlled release of biologics. The technology is suitable for use with monoclonal antibodies, bispecifics, and Fc-fusion proteins—key formats in the biopharma pipeline.
Dr Stella Vnook, chief executive officer of Likarda, said: “Delivery should never be an afterthought—it should be part of the development strategy from day one. Partnering with Axio allows us to integrate our encapsulation and formulation technologies earlier in the drug development process, where they can have the greatest impact on stability, efficacy, and patient experience. Importantly, it provides seamless integration to scaled manufacturing for our clients. Together, we’re creating a smarter, more connected path from discovery to clinic.”
Axio BioPharma focuses on transforming biologic manufacturing through digital-first process development and predictive science, while Likarda is known for its expertise in precision drug delivery platforms, especially for difficult-to-deliver therapeutics.
The companies said that by combining capabilities, they will be better positioned to support biopharma clients in developing more effective and scalable biologic therapies.
