IDT Biologika acquires Aeras’ vaccine manufacturing facility

The partnership allows each organization to focus on what it does best, with the non-profit Aeras concentrating on TB (tuberculosis) vaccine development and IDT working to grow the manufacturing facility in Rockville, MD, for vaccine development. Within the partnership Aeras will collaborate with IDT on the process development and manufacturing of candidate TB vaccines. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"We plan the expansion of capacity for new development projects and small scale product batches through internal investment and by acquisitions​," said Ralf Pfirmann, CEO of IDT Biologika.  "Aeras contract manufacturing activities complement IDT's capabilities, they enable clinical Phase I and II projects and provide early development capabilities to enhance IDT´s vaccine business pipeline​."

IDT and Aeras will jointly share occupancy of the Aeras location in Rockville.

Andreas Neubert, VP of IDT's Vaccine Business, added:  "IDT Biologika and Aeras believe that this facility within the IDT organization will continue to be an important and agile manufacturing asset supporting global health. Therefore we intend to upgrade the manufacturing infrastructure soon​."

 Aeras and IDT will work closely over the next few months to ensure a successful transition of ongoing projects, the companies said.

Jacqueline Shea, Aeras COO, added: "This transition enables continued stewardship of the facility, maintains skills and expertise, and retains access for Aeras to process development and manufacturing expertise for the pipeline of TB vaccine candidates, as well as ensures the continued availability of the facility for other global health needs​."