Lonza, a CDMO, and Genetix Biotherapeutics Inc., a commercial-stage biotechnology company developing genetic therapies for severe rare diseases, have extended their long-term commercial manufacturing agreement. 

Lonza will expand manufacturing capacity to support growing demand for Genetix’s ZYNTEGLO, the only FDA-approved gene therapy for pediatric and adult patients with transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia.

The agreement extends the strategic collaboration established in 2013 between the companies, which later supported ZYNTEGLO’s approval in 2022. Under the renewed agreement, commercial manufacturing for Genetix will continue at Lonza’s Houston, TX facility, a dedicated cell and gene therapy site. The collaboration also makes provisions to scale up manufacturing in the future for additional Genetix therapies.

Daniel Palmacci, Head of Specialized Modalities at Lonza, said: “Our extended agreement with Genetix underscores the value of our services and expertise in commercial cell and gene therapy manufacturing. We are proud to continue our collaboration by expanding the commercial production of ZYNTEGLO at our manufacturing facility in Houston.”

Brian Riley, President and Chief Technology Officer at Genetix, added: “Lonza’s scientific rigor, quality focus and consistent execution have been important in enabling a reliable supply of ZYNTEGLO. In the last year, patient demand for Genetix’s therapies has grown consistently and rapidly. Extending the agreement with Lonza and expanding capacity provides a strong foundation as we invest to meet the growing patient demand and broaden our long-term manufacturing strategy.”