How Abzena's Microbiology Labs Boost Biologic Development

In a significant move to enhance quality control capabilities in biologic manufacturing, Abzena, a global leader in integrated contract development and manufacturing (CDMO) for complex biologics and bioconjugates, announced the expansion of its microbiology laboratory in San Diego, California. 

The new laboratory space will strengthen Abzena's quality control (QC) testing, adding advanced analytical tools for antibodies and faster microbiology release testing to support biologic production for pharmaceutical clients.

Enhanced QC testing for complex biologics

With the new expansion, Abzena's QC facility now supports faster, more efficient testing processes tailored explicitly for biologic manufacturing.

The added space separates product-specific microbiology testing, creating a dedicated environment for high-volume clinical materials. 

Sean O'Brien, SVP and San Diego Site Head, comments: "Our new QC testing laboratory is a significant milestone for our San Diego site and a further addition to Abzena's global laboratory network." 

"This expansion enhances our ability to provide state-of-the-art analytical services that continue to drive progress in testing and report development for our customers."

By adding specialised equipment such as new incubators and a biosafety cabinet (BSC),

Abzena aims to improve scalability, reduce cross-contamination risks and maintain high-quality standards in a market with increasing regulatory demands.

Supporting a full range of biologic development services

Abzena offers end-to-end services for the biotech and biopharma industries, supporting customers through every stage of the development cycle—from discovery through to commercial launch.

The company's integrated programs are designed to reduce the risks involved in biologic development, providing clients with tailored strategies that accelerate the delivery of innovative medicines to patients.

Operating research, development and cGMP facilities in San Diego, California; Bristol, Pennsylvania; and Cambridge, UK, Abzena combines a global presence with deep expertise. The recent expansion reflects Abzena's commitment to building a robust infrastructure that meets client needs, improves process efficiencies and enables customers to scale up production without sacrificing quality.

Meeting the growing demand for quality testing and regulatory compliance

In response to heightened regulatory demands across the pharmaceutical landscape, Abzena's expanded QC microbiology lab is also part of a broader strategy to address industry needs.

Separating product testing from other types of testing helps Abzena stay aligned with industry standards, ensuring its processes meet current regulatory requirements while maintaining room for future growth. The lab's design improves operational efficiency with an enhanced focus on ecological impact and scalability.

By prioritising streamlined, effective testing environments, Abzena is helping reduce the industry backlog of quality testing, delivering results with both speed and precision. 

Troy Wright, SVP and Global Head of Quality at Abzena remarked on the significance of the expansion, stating: 

"This announcement comes at a very timely moment with World Quality Month quickly approaching. As an organisation focused on quality excellence, increasing our QC footprint is a testament to our commitment to continuous improvement and innovation."

A forward-thinking approach to biologic development

The dedicated microbiology laboratory in San Diego allows Abzena to ensure sample integrity throughout microbiological testing, positioning the company as a responsive partner in the fast-paced biologics industry.

The larger facility can accommodate new technologies and tools to support advancements in QC testing, enabling the company to scale up as industry demands increase.

The lab's structure ensures critical separations between utility and environmental microbiological testing, helping Abzena maintain its high standards for purity and accuracy.

With these enhanced facilities, it aims to bring clients closer to faster product launches by providing comprehensive testing solutions that meet the highest levels of quality and compliance.

Quality and continuous improvement

Abzena's microbiology lab expansion provides client support, innovation and advanced medical knowledge. The move reflects a proactive response to industry challenges and alignment with the highest standards in the CDMO space, ensuring that clients can bring safe, compliant treatments to market.

Through its new San Diego facility, Abzena reinforces its position as a leader in biologics development and manufacturing, fully equipped to support the needs of biotech and biopharma companies worldwide.

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