Novartis To Consolidate U.S. Cell And Gene Therapy Operations

Novartis has announced plans to consolidate the operations of its U.S. cell and gene therapy subsidiaries. SyStemix, Inc. (Palo Alto, CA) and Genetic Therapy, Inc. (Gaithersburg, MD) are to be combined under the direction of Dr. Michael Perry, president and CEO of SyStemix. Genetic Therapy will concentrate on developing delivery systems for gene therapy whilst SyStemix will continue to focus on cell-based gene therapy.

Dr. Jorg Reinhardt, head of Preclinical Development and Project Management at Novartis Pharma, stated, "This consolidation allows us to maintain critical mass and eliminate overlap. The freed resources will be channeled into value-adding activities to tackle the scientific hurdles to gene therapy, which we have identified through our broad experience, including clinical trials. At the same time, we will retain access to the scientific communities and expertise on both coasts."

GTI and SyStemix are involved in a full range of advanced scientific activities including vector development, scale-up and manufacturing, cell processing and device development. Projects are underway in HIV, oncology, multiple sclerosis and other fields.

For more information: Sheldon Jones, Novartis. Telephone: 908-522-6823.