Catalent to Acquire Delphi Genetics to Expand Plasmid DNA Capabilities

Catalent announced on Feb. 23, 2021 that it has acquired Delphi Genetics, a Belgium-based plasmid DNA (pDNA) cell and gene therapy contract development and manufacturing organization.

Through the acquisition, Catalent will establish pDNA development and manufacturing services at its Rockville, MD facility and will gain Delphi’s team of R&D and genetic engineering scientists, technicians, and regulatory specialists, Catalent said in a company press release. Additionally, Catalent will acquire Delphi’s proprietary STABY technology, an antibiotic-free selection system for plasmid and protein production in Escherichia coli.

“We are absolutely thrilled to team up with Catalent and, by combining with the companies it has already established in Belgium, create a European Center of Excellence in Cell and Gene Therapy,” said François Blondel, chairman of the board and CEO of Delphi Genetics, in the press release. “We believe Catalent will immediately benefit from our expertise and the recent investments we have made in CGMP [current good manufacturing practice] capacity.”

“Cell and gene therapy production is complex, and most developers prefer to use experienced partners with an integrated offering across the supply chain. Having integrated pDNA supply is a critical component for the fast and efficient production of viral vectors,” added Manja Boerman, PhD, president, Catalent Cell & Gene Therapy, in the press release. “By providing these capabilities in both Europe and the [United States], where the vast majority of genetic therapy companies are based, we will help our partners improve processes and reduce timelines as they bring their life-changing therapies to patients.”

Source: Catalent