MilliporeSigma has signed a commercial supply agreement to manufacture viral vectors for bluebird bio for its use in potentially transformative gene therapies.

“We look forward to collaborating with bluebird bio to bring to market breakthrough therapies to fight diseases for which there are limited or no options,” said Udit Batra, chief executive officer of MilliporeSigma. “With 30 years’ experience in viral vector manufacturing, we remain committed to innovating with academia, hospitals and cell therapy manufacturers to accelerate access to personalized cell therapy for the patients who need it most.”

Under the multi-year agreement, MilliporeSigma will manufacture lentiviral vectors for bluebird bio’s drug products developed to treat a variety of rare genetic diseases. 

Gene therapy involves the delivery of genetic material into patient cells to produce a therapeutic effect such as correction of a mutated gene or retargeting of an immune cell to fight cancer. 

MilliporeSigma has been involved in gene and cell therapy manufacturing tools and services for close to three decades. Their investment in the gene therapy space includes a recent expansion at their Carlsbad facility to nearly double its former production capacity.