CDMOs enhancing capabilities

CDMOs are elevating their game by enhancing their capabilities and capacities, investing in facilities exclusively dedicated to CGT manufacturing. Avid Bioservices, Inc., a biologics CDMO, has recently completed construction of cGMP manufacturing suites within its new CGT-focused facility located in Orange County, CA. Forecyte Bio, a CGT CDMO, has inaugurated a brand-new GMP facility in Shanghai to bolster its manufacturing capabilities. Lonza is also expanding its global presence in cell and gene therapy, with expansions in the US and The Netherlands, including nearly doubling the size of its Cell and Gene Therapy Development laboratories in Houston. AGC Biologics is ramping up its Milan site to support viral vector development for large-scale clinical and commercial demands. Additionally, AstraZeneca plans to establish a major R&D centre in Hong Kong dedicated to developing cell and gene therapy drugs. In the US, Thermo Fisher Scientific has unveiled a new viral vector manufacturing facility in Plainville, MA, expanding its CGT capabilities. In the APAC region, Fujifilm is investing $200 million into cell therapy development and manufacturing in the U.S., while Catalent adds cryogenic capabilities in Japan to support cell and gene therapy development. OBiO Technology has opened a super factory in China to accelerate cell and gene therapy, and Curocell has launched a 'CAR-T Manufacturing GMP Facility' in Korea. SK pharmteco is also expanding its capabilities with the acquisition of a controlling interest in a U.S.based Center for Breakthrough Medicines.