Diosynth To Produce Plasminogen for Talecris Trials

Diosynth Biotechnology has signed an agreement with Talecris Biotherapeutics for process development and cGMP production of clinical trial material for a specific form of recombinant Plasminogen. Recombinant Plasminogen is an intermediate material used in the manufacture of recombinant Plasmin, a second-generation therapy Talecris is developing for ophthalmic and thrombolytic indications.

“We are pleased to have the opportunity to work with Talecris, a dynamic, global company with an increasing interest in the development of recombinant therapeutics,” said Jacques van Kimmenaede, president of Diosynth Biotechnology.

“We were confident in the selection of Diosynth Biotechnology as our CMO, said Steve Petteway, senior vice president, R&D, Talecris Biotherapeutics. “They have a strong track record in process development and cGMP production of both clinical and commercial products, which demonstrates a level of excellence in manufacturing and quality systems, “Additionally, they have accomplished this across a range of molecule classes that goes beyond a typical CMO offering.”

Also, Talecris has entered a long-term distribution agreement with Crucell N.V. Under the terms of the agreement, Crucell will serve as the exclusive distributor of Talecris’ Prolastin in nine western European countries, replacing Bayer.

Dr. Ronald H.P. Brus, Crucell’s president and chief executive officer, commented, “We are very proud to work with such a well-established and respected company and take over the distribution from Bayer. Not only does this deal match with our mission to advance in the therapeutic proteins arena but it also strengthens Crucell’s global credibility and serves as a major step on our expansion path.” Crucell will make use of its newly integrated European marketing and sales organization created through the acquisitions of Berna Biotech and SBL Vaccines in 2006.