Evonik partnered with evitria to launch a ready-to-use transient protein expression kit based on CHO cells for biopharmaceutical research and development. The collaboration aims to deliver faster, more reliable and scalable protein production, helping researchers overcome common challenges in transient protein expression workflows. At the same time, the partnership expands access to evitria’s CHO expression expertise while strengthening Evonik’s precision biosolutions portfolio for biopharma customers.
New eviCHO Expression Kit Simplifies CHO Workflows
The eviCHO Expression Kit is based on CHO-K1 (Chinese Hamster Ovary) cells, which are widely used for producing antibodies and other therapeutic proteins. In early-stage biologics research, scientists often rely on transient protein expression because it enables rapid protein production without the lengthy process of generating stable cell lines. However, CHO-based transient expression can be complex and time-consuming.
The eviCHO kit addresses these challenges by providing:
Ready-to-use components
Commercially validated protocols
Faster and more consistent protein production
Reduced troubleshooting requirements
As a result, researchers can streamline laboratory workflows and accelerate the development of new biologics.
Supporting Faster Biologics Development
Guido Skudlarek, Head of the Health Care business line at Evonik, said the partnership combines evitria’s proven protein expression capabilities with Evonik’s extensive biopharma experience. “Our goal is to simplify processes, enable faster biologics development and further strengthen our position in the biopharma value chain,” said Skudlarek. The collaboration therefore strengthens Evonik’s role in supporting pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies during the critical early stages of biologics development.
evitria Brings Extensive CHO Expertise
Based in Zurich, evitria specializes in CHO-based transient antibody expression. The company’s experience includes more than 1,25,000 transfections, over 25,000 antibodies and antibody-based molecules expressed and purified and customers across the Americas, Europe, Asia and Australia. Its client base ranges from academic institutions and emerging biotech firms to leading global biopharmaceutical companies.
Focus on Consistent, High-Quality Results
Stefan Schmidt, CSO of evitria and the Atlas Antibodies group, described the eviCHO Expression Kit as a natural extension of the company’s CHO-based expression expertise. “Together with Evonik, we are making it easier for customers to achieve consistent, high-quality results in their own lab,” Schmidt informed.
Evonik Expands Precision Biosolutions Portfolio
The partnership forms part of Evonik’s strategic focus on Advance Precision Biosolutions, a growth area aimed at strengthening the innovation pipelines of pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies. In addition, Evonik continues to expand its biomanufacturing solutions portfolio. Earlier in 2025, the company partnered with recombinant protein developer InVitria to add recombinant human serum albumin (rHSA) to its offering.
Comprehensive Biomanufacturing Solutions
With more than 60 years of experience, Evonik provides a broad portfolio of non-animal-derived, chemically defined bioprocess ingredients, including amino acids, dipeptides, lipids and surfactants. These materials are designed to support the next generation of biomanufacturing and biologics production.
Strengthening the Biopharma Value Chain
Overall, the Evonik–evitria partnership aims to simplify CHO-based transient protein expression and help researchers accelerate early-stage biologics development. As per the press release, by combining validated CHO expression technology with precision bioprocess ingredients and commercial expertise, the collaboration is expected to support faster development timelines and more consistent protein production for biopharmaceutical innovators worldwide.
