Novo Nordisk expands agreement with Millipore

Novo Nordisk has extended its partnership agreement with Millpore, granting the firm long-term exclusive global rights to its insulin for use in cell culture applications.

Under the terms of the expanded agreement, Millipore has acquired the commercialisation and sales rights to recombinant human insulin for use in cell culture media applications.

Known as Incelligent SG (standard grade) and Incelligent AF (animal free), these insulin products are produced in independent facilities, offering improved supply chain security to consumers.

The existing supply agreement between Novo Nordisk and Millpore has been expanded for a number of years, with biopharmaceutical manufacturers now having a guaranteed supply of insulin for use in new cell line development and biologic drug production.

Jesper Hoiland, senior vice-president of international operations at Novo Nordisk, said: “Novo Nordisk is committed to manufacturing high quality insulin products for the cell culture media market, and given the importance of its use for patients beyond the diabetes area, we are expanding our relationship with Millipore.”

He added that the firm’s ability to reduce supply risk offers a unique benefit to clients, while the deal highlights the broad portfolio of cell culture supplements on offer from the company.

In June 2007, Novo Nordisk announced the results of a new study assessing the efficacy and safety of Levemir (insulin detemir [rDNA origin] injection), with patients successfully self-dosing the compound to achieve glycaemic control.