Andelyn Biosciences, Inc., a leading cell and gene therapy Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), has entered into a strategic partnership with Amplo Biotechnology to manufacture novel AAV gene therapies targeting neuromuscular junction (NMJ) disorders. The collaboration will leverage Andelyn's suspension AAV Curator® platform to deliver scalable clinical-grade material, accelerating Amplo's mission to develop transformative treatments for patients worldwide.
Clinical Significance of Neuromuscular Junction Disorders
Diseases affecting the NMJ present significant clinical challenges, typically resulting in muscle weakness that can severely impact patient quality of life. In severe cases, patients require respiratory support, wheelchair assistance for ambulation, and tube feeding. Some NMJ disorders can be life-threatening, making the development of effective therapies critically important.
Genetic NMJ diseases are typically diagnosed in early childhood but can also manifest in adolescence or adulthood, creating a broad patient population in need of therapeutic interventions.
Manufacturing Platform and Technology
The partnership centers on Andelyn's suspension AAV Curator® platform, described as a highly characterized, scalable suspension AAV platform that leverages a data-driven approach to adapt and optimize customer processes. The platform provides a pathway to cGMP and commercial manufacturing, addressing one of the key challenges in gene therapy development.
By adopting this platform, Amplo Biotechnology aims to advance its AAV gene therapy programs toward clinical evaluation, focusing on the safety and efficacy requirements for upcoming trials.
Strategic Partnership Benefits
"As a leading clinical and commercial CDMO, we are honored to support Amplo Biotechnology's efforts to bring hope to patients affected by debilitating NMJ diseases," said Matt Niloff, Chief Commercial Officer at Andelyn Biosciences. "Our Curator® platform and end-to-end capabilities are designed to help partners achieve key development and clinical milestones."
Amplo Biotechnology stated that this partnership strengthens its ability to deliver high-quality AAV material and supports its mission to develop transformative therapies for families impacted by genetic NMJ disorders worldwide.
Pipeline Development
Amplo Biotechnology is positioned as a late-stage preclinical company developing regenerative AAV gene therapies with an initial focus on restoring NMJ function in rare, genetically defined disorders. The company's lead program, AMP-101, is advancing toward a first-in-human trial in Dok7 congenital myasthenic syndrome, built on research from the University of Tokyo and Oxford.
Manufacturing Capabilities
Andelyn operates from its development and manufacturing facilities in Columbus, Ohio, with more than 20 years of experience in the field. The company's expertise has resulted in the production of cGMP material for more than 450 clinical batches and 75 global clinical trials. The company's capabilities include cGMP manufacturing for suspension processes up to 2,000 liters and adherent processes, supported by a rigorous quality system, regulatory support, and supply chain vertical integration.
This partnership represents a significant step forward in advancing gene therapies for neuromuscular junction disorders, combining Amplo's therapeutic expertise with Andelyn's proven manufacturing capabilities to potentially bring life-changing treatments to patients with these debilitating conditions.
