The site will be dedicated to cGMP manufacturing capacity for mammalian biologics, and will be the sixth site across Abzena’s global network. The Sanford site will contain up to 12 x 2000L bioreactors.
Phased construction process
San Diego-headquartered Abzena specializes in the integrated development and manufacture of complex biologics and bioconjugates. The design of the Sanford facility has been optimized for phase 3 and commercial manufacturing of biologics.
Four modular suites will initially be constructed: with each suite including up to two 2000L bioreactors. A further phase will add two 2000L suites. Additionally, the site will be equipped to handle existing and new advances in manufacturing such as continuous manufacturing and perfusion. GMP manufacturing will commence in mid-2022.
The new facility is set to generate approximately 325 jobs in Sanford.
“Our goal is to support our partners and the patients they serve with this expansion in cGMP biologics manufacturing services,” Jonathan Goldman, MD, CEO of Abzena said. “We are pleased to provide integrated asset development with a full suite of in-house services from discovery through clinical and commercial phases without the need for technology transfer.”