Cell Genesys manufacturing operation acquired by Genzyme

Genzyme plans to use the acquired assets and the new facilities to support its ongoing research and clinical trials, and to broaden the company’s manufacturing capabilities related to both adenovirus and adeno-associated virus vectors. These vectors are used to deliver genes to the appropriate cells in patients.

The most advanced gene therapy program at Genzyme is an ongoing phase II clinical trial examining the safety and effectiveness of locally-delivered Ad2/HIF-1 alpha, an engineered form of the HIF-1 alpha gene, for patients with peripheral arterial disease.

Most of the approximately 40 employees at the 47,000 square-foot facilities have now become Genzyme employees.

“Addition of this state-of-the-art manufacturing facility will support the growth of our gene therapy program and significantly strengthen our ability to produce quantities of both adenovirus vectors and adeno-associated virus vectors,” said Blair Okita, senior vice president of manufacturing and development at Genzyme.