RNA-based therapeutics maker Sarepta Therapeutics Inc. recently announced its plans to acquire a multifunctional manufacturing facility to manufacture investigational exon skipping therapies for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The approximately $25 million transaction is expected to close in July subject to conditions and extensions in the agreement.
Sarepta Therapeutics president and CEO Chris Garabedian explains, “This strategic acquisition complements our existing internal manufacturing capability and global network of suppliers. While we scale-up to address the potential U.S. commercial demand for our lead product candidate eteplirsen in the event of an approval next year, the addition of internal resources will enhance our ability to advance the development of our broader exon skipping platform and explore the potential of our technology platform in other therapeutic areas.”
Known for its development of phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomer (PMO) chemistries for RNA therapeutics, Sarepta plans to use the facility to enhance and scale its proprietary manufacturing processes for PMO chemistries.
Sited on 26-acres, the multifunctional facility was constructed in 1996 and upgraded in 2006, and was qualified under Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) regulations. When fully operational, the facility supports approximately 40 technicians and support staff.
Focused on developing RNA-based therapeutics to improve and save the lives of people affected by serious and life-threatening rare and infectious diseases, Sarepta’s diverse pipeline includes its lead program eteplirsen, for DMD, as well as potential treatments for some very lethal infectious diseases. Sarepta, says the company, is dedicated to translating its RNA-based science into transformational therapeutics for patients who face significant unmet medical needs.