Sigma-Aldrich launches CHOZN Platform for drug research

Sigma-Aldrich has announced the launch of its new CHOZN Platform system for use in the acceleration of recombinant protein drug development.

The Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell expression system allows for faster, simpler selection and scale-up of high-producing clones for drug development, offering various means of maximising production of r-proteins.

Created by Sigma-Aldrich's custom manufacturing and services business unit SAFC, the platform offers the first commercially available glutamine synthetase knockout CHO line proven to shorten bioproduction times, enabling customers to decrease costs and bring products to market quicker.

Bruce Lehr, SAFC's director of cell sciences and development, said the new product offers "a solid foundation for SAFC's continued cell and media development programme".

"It has been proven to show a reduction in product development timelines, enabling customers to get their molecules into the clinic faster," he added.

Earlier this month, the firm announced the acquisition of Research Organics, which will be integrated into the SAFC business unit once the transaction is finalised.