Catalent makes Belgian acquisition, expands Md. facility to grow pDNA offerings

Catalent, the Somerset-based provider of drug delivery technologies, has agreed to acquire Delphi Genetics, a Belgian contract development and manufacturing organization.

The company said in a news release that it has entered into a final and definitive agreement with Delphi to acquire 100% of its shares. The company is a bioproduction CDMO capable of handling the entire plasmid DNA and current good manufacturing processes, Catalent said. It is headquartered in a 17,000-square-foot facility adjacent to Catalent’s current facilities in Gosselies.

Under the terms of the agreement, Catalent will also acquire the company’s proprietary STABY technology. Delphi’s team, including research & development and genetic engineering scientists and technicians, regulatory specialists and others, will join Catalent’s Cell & Gene Therapy business.

In a related development, Catalent also announced the launch of plasmid DNA development and manufacturing services at its Rockville, Maryland, facility.

“Cell and gene therapy production is complex, and most developers prefer to use experienced partners with an integrated offering across the supply chain,” Manja Boerman, president of Catalent Cell & Gene Therapy, said in a prepared statement. “Having integrated pDNA supply is a critical component for the fast and efficient production of viral vectors. By providing these capabilities in both Europe and the U.S., where the vast majority of genetic therapy companies are based, we will help our partners improve processes and reduce timelines as they bring their life-changing therapies to patients.”

Achelous Partners served as mergers & acquisitions adviser to Delphi.