Genzyme to collaborate with Sunway on gene therapy

Genzyme and biotechnology company Sunway have announced plans to collaborate on manufacturing, developing and commercialising an experimental gene therapy in China.

Genzyme’s most advanced gene therapy candidate, Ad2/HIF-1a, is currently in Phase-2 clinical testing in the US and Europe.

With more than 300 patients involved in trials across the two continents, Ad2/HIF-1a is designed to promote the growth of new blood vessels and improve circulation in the limbs of those with peripheral arterial disease.

The trials are examining the safety and effectiveness of its local delivery to patients with intermittent claudication, a form of peripheral arterial disease that results in disabling pain or fatigue in the legs, brought on by exercise.

Under the collaboration with Sunway, Genzyme will transfer its process for manufacturing Ad2/HIF-1a to Sunway, who will produce it at its Shanghai facility for clinical trials.

"Our work with Sunway represents one of many ways that we hope to participate in the dynamic Chinese biotechnology industry and to contribute to its growth," commented Duke Collier, Genzyme’s executive vice-president.

An established leader in the gene therapy field, Genzyme recently completed its phase-3 trial of Mozobil in non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, "robustly meeting" its primary and secondary endpoints.