BioAgilytix acquires IPM Biotech
Expands and enhances the global reach and breadth of its bioanalytical capabilities
BioAgilytix, a US provider of contract bioanalytical testing services, has acquired Germany-based contract research laboratory IPM Biotech, which has expertise in large molecule bioanalysis, particularly in the area of immunogenicity, for an undisclosed sum.
BioAgilytix said IPM’s immunogenicity, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamics (PD) expertise will complement the firm's capabilities in biomarkers, cell-based assays, and immunogenicity and pharmacokinetics.
The deal also expands the Durham, NC-based firm's global footprint, by adding IPM’s planned GLP laboratory facility as its European headquarters.
Jim Datin, Chief Executive of BioAgilytix, said while IPM Biotech is continuing operations at its current GLP laboratory, construction of this new advanced laboratory facility is also underway. This new site will add GMP certification, and expand IPM’s capacity to more than triple its size by the end of the year.
'When completed this fall, IPM’s new facility will be the most technologically advanced bioanalytical laboratory in Europe supporting biotherapeutics development. We will be duplicating the expert resources and extensive platforms already available in BioAgilytix’s premier US laboratory, making it our European headquarters,' said Datin.
As a merged company we will truly be the most scientifically advanced CRL
'This gives customers in both North America and Europe ready access to our top-calibre scientific expertise and technology – plus the additional specialised services that the IPM team brings to the table.'
Afshin Safavi, Founder and Chief Scientific Officer of BioAgilytix, said the addition of IPM’s scientific expertise and European presence will enable the firm to more easily support customers who have sites on both continents – particularly in Phase II and III trials.
In addition to providing a site for BioAgilytix’s European headquarters, the acquisition integrates the IPM Biotech team’s specialised expertise in immune mediated diseases and disorders. Led by co-founder Arno Jens Kromminga, a pioneer and leader in immunological assays, IPM was involved in the first cases of immunogenicity and brought the first biosimilar erythropoietin (EPO) to approval in Europe. The company also supported the first biosimilar EPO submission in the US.
'As a merged company we will truly be the most scientifically advanced CRL, capable of supporting global studies for any type of large molecule need,' said Kromminga.
