Cobra Biologics embarks on £15 million gene therapy manufacturing expansion

Cobra Biologics, an international contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) of biologics and pharmaceuticals, is to expand operations at its sites in the UK and Sweden to meet the increased demand of gene and immunotherapy companies to fast track their portfolios through to in-market supply.

Over the next two years Cobra will invest up to £15 million ($19 million) on a phased expansion plan, supporting the company’s R&D expertise in developing rapid and cost effective viral vector and DNA plasmid production platforms. The initial phase, will be in the UK and will extend the company’s viral vector Phase III and commercial manufacturing capabilities to support more customers to rapidly advance their products through clinical trials to in-market supply. The second phase, in Sweden, will double capacity for high quality (HQ) DNA plasmid production and characterization, essential for supporting early clinical phase Adeno-associated virus (AAV) and lentivirus manufacture being used by pioneering CAR T-cell therapy companies targeting acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia.

The third phase of investment will see the addition of larger clinical and commercial capabilities for Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) DNA production. In total, it is anticipated these investments will create up to 50 new jobs, in addition to the 135 jobs already created in the UK and Sweden since 2011 and will also benefit the wider supply chain companies which provide Cobra with services and facilities.