Lonza, one of the world’s leading contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs), and Genetix Biotherapeutics Inc. (Genetix), a commercial-stage biotech specializing in genetic therapies for rare diseases, announced the extension of their long-term commercial manufacturing agreement. Under the renewed agreement, Lonza will expand its manufacturing capacity to meet the growing demand for ZYNTEGLO™, the only FDA-approved gene therapy for pediatric and adult patients with transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia.
Strengthening a Strategic Collaboration
The extension builds on a partnership that began in 2013, which paved the way for ZYNTEGLO™’s FDA approval in 2022. Commercial manufacturing will continue at Lonza’s Houston facility, a dedicated cell and gene therapy site with nearly a decade of experience supporting both clinical and commercial production. The collaboration also includes plans to scale manufacturing capacity for future Genetix therapies, reinforcing the long-term strategic alignment between the two organizations.
Expanding Commercial Production Capabilities
Daniel Palmacci, Head of Specialized Modalities at Lonza, commented, “Our extended agreement with Genetix underscores the value of our expertise in commercial cell and gene therapy manufacturing. We are proud to continue our collaboration by expanding ZYNTEGLO™ production at our state-of-the-art Houston facility.” The expansion ensures that Lonza can reliably meet growing patient demand while maintaining high-quality standards in gene therapy manufacturing.
Meeting Growing Patient Demand
Brian Riley, President and Chief Technology Officer at Genetix, added, “Our long-standing partnership with Lonza reflects our shared commitment to commercial excellence and operational discipline. Their scientific rigor and quality focus have been essential in delivering a reliable supply of ZYNTEGLO™. With patient demand growing rapidly, extending the agreement and expanding capacity provides a solid foundation to meet current and future needs.” As per the press release, the renewed collaboration positions Genetix to scale production efficiently and support long-term manufacturing strategies for innovative gene therapies targeting rare diseases.
