ProChon Biotech Opts Lonza To Manufacture BioCart

ProChon Biotech has selected Lonza’s Hopkinton facility to manufacture its proprietary fibroblast growth factor (FGF2v) variant in the US. FGF2v is a key regulator of cellular processes involved in blood vessel formation, wound healing and the remodeling of bone and cartilage.

FGF2v is a critical component of ProChon’s BioCart Cartilage Regeneration System that enhances a patient’s cells to grow more predictably and in only 10 to 14 days, compared to up to six weeks with other technologies.

Patrick Donnell, chief executive officer of ProChon, said: “With an unparalleled track record in contract manufacturing, Lonza is the ideal partner to manufacture our fibroblast growth factor system. As we accelerate the BioCart clinical program at medical centers across the country, it is vitally important to have immediate access to our core technology and working with Lonza will make this a reality.

“ProChon is committed to growing the company in Massachusetts and bringing additional revenue and jobs to the commonwealth, as evidenced by this announcement and our recent partnership with our contract research organization, Southborough-based Averion International. We look forward to working with Lonza to develop FGF2v as we move toward our goal of bringing mobility to millions of people who suffer from cartilage injuries.”

Stephan Kutzer, head of Lonza custom manufacturing, said: “We are very pleased to enter this collaboration with ProChon to advance a critical new biotherapy for cartilage regeneration. We look forward to supporting ProChon with innovative development services and the latest in biopharmaceutical manufacturing technologies and expect this to be the basis for a successful, long-term relationship.”