LIVE FROM CPhI: SAFC introduces first novel CHOZN GS knockout CHO cell line

SAFC is introducing a novel CHOZN GS^-/- Zinc Finger Nuclease (ZFN) modified Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cell line. Designed for use in the production of biopharmaceuticals, the new CHOZN GS^-/- cell line is the first commercially available glutamine synthetase (GS) knockout CHO cell line proven to shorten bioproduction times in early development, the company says, enabling customers to enhance their speed-to-market and increase cost efficiency.

CHOZN GS^-/- was developed using SAFC's proprietary CompoZr ZFN technology that inactivates the glutamine synthetase gene rendering the cells dependent on L-glutamine. Development timelines for biopharmaceuticals can be shortened, as the cells do not require MSX (or L-Methionine-D, L-sulfoximine) selection for production clone development.

“Knocking out” the GS gene that produces this enzyme means the addition of this MSX inhibitor is no longer required for r-protein clone selection, providing enhanced supply chain security, decreasing development time for identification of producing clones, and enabling customers to file Investigational New Drug (IND) applications sooner. The parental cell line is cGMP banked using Animal Component Free (ACF), Chemically Defined (CD) media and has extensive viral testing, along with a traceable history.

'The CHOZN GS^-/- CHO cell line provides a solid foundation for SAFC’s continued cell line development programme,' said Bruce Lehr, SAFC director of cell sciences and development. 'It is expected to reduce production timelines, enabling customers to take their molecules to the clinic faster. Furthermore, it sets the stage for future products and capabilities in the area of upstream biopharmaceutical process development.'

This new line follows the release in July 2011 of the CHOZN DHFR^-/- CHO line.