Crucell in Star acquisition
Dutch biotechnology company Crucell has completed the acquisition of ChromaGenics, a biotechnology company based in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
Dutch biotechnology company Crucell has completed the acquisition of ChromaGenics, a biotechnology company based in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
ChromaGenics was founded by UvA Holding, Dr. Arie Otte, and Dr. Niek Roosdorp as a spin-off company of the University of Amsterdam. It is focused on (epi-)genetic discoveries relevant to recombinant DNA protein production in mammalian cells. Dr. Arie Otte discovered genetic elements (STAR elements) that are of particular importance to stable and 'high-yield' gene expression. The STAR technology is particularly useful for the production of recombinant human antibodies. Crucell will make an up front cash payment as well as additional, deferred consideration subject to the achievement of future revenues.
'ChromaGenics' STAR technology involves higher-order gene regulation mechanisms and thereby has the potential to take biopharmaceutical production technology to a higher level of sophistication,' says Ronald Brus, ceo of Crucell. 'The potentially broad applicability of the STAR technology may lead to early additional licensing revenues for Crucell.' Jaap Goudsmit, chief scientific officer of Crucell, added: 'We believe that ChromaGenics' STAR technology will reduce the cost of industrial scale production of proteins and antibodies, to levels otherwise difficult to achieve.'
Dr Arie Otte, the discoverer of the STAR technology,1 will join Crucell part time as director Epigenetics Technology, and five of his team will join Crucell fulltime.