In the new high-tech facility, Roche will drive the development of gene vectors for novel gene therapies. In addition, these will be manufactured here on an industrial scale for clinical trials. These gene vectors, also known as "gene ferries," open up completely new possibilities as transport vehicles for DNA to treat the causes of various serious diseases at the DNA level and even to cure them in the future.
According to the American Society of Gene & Cell Therapy (ASGCT), more than 2,000 gene therapies and genetically modified cell therapies were being researched worldwide at the end of 2023.
In the EU, and therefore in Germany, there are currently 15 gene therapies approved (Source: Association of Researching Pharmaceutical Companies, VfA, February 2024).
