Mirus Bio’s GMP transfection re-agents complement Merck’s upstream bioprocessing portfolio. Credit: Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany and/or its affiliates.

Germany-based Merck KGaA has concluded the acquisition of Mirus Bio for €500m ($600m), enhancing its viral vector bioprocessing capabilities.

The companies entered a definitive agreement in May 2024 under which Merck’s Life Science business in the US and Canada, MilliporeSigma, would acquire Mirus Bio.

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The deal aligns with Merck’s strategy to offer comprehensive solutions across the entire viral vector manufacturing spectrum, from preclinical stages to commercial production.

Mirus Bio, previously part of Gamma Biosciences, focuses on the development and commercialisation of transfection re-agents, essential in the production of viral vector-based gene therapies.

The acquisition of Mirus Bio’s transfection re-agents, such as TransIT-VirusGEN, will enhance Merck’s upstream portfolio, enabling the company to offer an integrated approach to viral vector manufacturing.

The integration of Mirus Bio’s transfection technologies into Merck’s portfolio strengthens the company’s position in the viral vector manufacturing market.

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Merck’s Life Science business sector is already known for its wide-ranging solutions that support the advancement of cell and gene therapies.

The sector’s portfolio includes cell lines, cell culture media, process materials such as chemicals, buffers and enzymes, as well as systems, filters, hardware and consumables.

Merck’s expertise spans viral vector types, including adeno-associated virus (AAV), lentivirus and adenovirus.

In addition to its product offerings, Merck also provides contract testing and comprehensive contract development and manufacturing organisation services for viral vector manufacturing.

Merck Life Science business Process Solutions head Sebastian Arana said: “Novel modalities like cell and gene therapies offer tremendous potential for bringing new curative treatments to patients.

“Mirus Bio’s advanced technology, combined with our bioprocessing expertise and broad portfolio, will enable us to deliver integrated solutions across the viral vector value chain and help meet the growing demand for these life-saving therapies.” 

Cell & Gene Therapy coverage on Pharmaceutical Technology is supported by Cytiva.

Editorial content is independently produced and follows the highest standards of journalistic integrity. Topic sponsors are not involved in the creation of editorial content.