Life science platform company VION Biosciences has announced the acquisition of US-based Echelon Biosciences, known for its supply of materials such as lipid-based excipients, to expand its portfolio.

This marks the second investment under the VION Biosciences umbrella, following the strategic framework set by the Aldon acquisition in 2023.

Echelon's expertise in lipid synthesis and lipid nanoparticles is crucial for the development of mRNA-based therapies, including vaccines and gene therapies.

The acquisition of Echelon Biosciences will bolster VION's capabilities in drug discovery and pre-clinical development and propel the company into the drug manufacturing arena.

The move is expected to enhance access to specialised products and technologies for VION's customers.

Echelon's role in VION's growth strategy is significant, as it will serve as a growth engine while maintaining its high standards of product quality, customer relationships and service.

Echelon's portfolio and team of experts in lipidomics are aligned with VION's long-term strategy to support the development of next-generation therapeutics and diagnostics.

The acquisition will also aid VION in advancing domestic and global expansion efforts to become a speciality products platform.

Echelon will continue to operate as a VION subsidiary, serving its existing customer base while leveraging the latter’s resources and infrastructure.

The technical and commercial leadership within Echelon will remain intact during the transition.

VION Biosciences CEO Mark Thornton stated: “Our customers are moving science forward daily, and our role is to look ahead to the future for what they need. The acquisition of Echelon Biosciences allows us to more effectively serve our customers who are focused on the delivery of a variety of mRNA and other gene-based biotherapeutics.

“Echelon’s long history as a market leader in ionisable and other critical lipids necessary to various stages of drug development pairs nicely with VION’s growth goals to expand its portfolio offering in the biopharma, diagnostic and clinical research segments. This is the first of many decisions that will continue to evolve VION as an innovative leader in the life science industry.”