Merck has announced the signing of a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with Chinese biotech company GenScript for a strategic alliance focusing on plasmid and viral vector manufacturing.

“Manufacturing of high-quality plasmid and viral vectors is one of the most critical components in the commercialization of cell and gene therapy,” saidUdit Batra, Member of the Merck Executive Board and CEO, Life Science. “Aswe are one of the world's largest manufacturers of viral vectors, this collaboration will give GenScript access to our leading experience of nearly three decades in gene and cell therapy manufacturing.”

The parties envision an alliance that will accelerate the industrialization and commercialization of cell and gene therapy inChina. GenScript, the biotech company headquartered inNanjing,China, aims to create a global-standard platform of plasmid and virus manufacturing service in the country. Merck plans to provide GenScript with comprehensive products, training and consulting services covering process design, facility concept design and quality management system set-up from lab development to large-scale GMP manufacturing.

Merck plans to provide a complete set of process products, services and staff training to support GenScript in building a world-class plasmid and viral vector manufacture platform to accelerate the industrialization of cell and gene therapy in China.

Merck has signed an MoU with Chinese biotech company GenScript for a strategic alliance focusing on plasmid and viral vector manufacturing.