American Gene Technologies (AGT), a private Maryland biotechnology company developing cures and treatments for Infectious diseases, cancers and monogenic disorders hosted a ribbon cutting October 23, 2017 celebrating the grand opening of its new 24,000 sq. ft. laboratory and offices. From its new location, AGT will begin clinical trials for its HIV Functional Cure therapeutic in the next six months.
The new AGT expansion will allow for acceleration of gene and cell therapeutic development laboratories supporting the HIV Functional Cure project that is expected to enter the clinic early next year, as well as to sustain the momentum of phenylketonuria and immuno-oncology therapeutics anticipated for clinical activities in late 2019. These early-stage programs represent substantial assets backed by an impressive IP portfolio. The new offices will support the company’s expected growth through early 2020.
Specialized laboratories within the building will cover an impressive 11,500 sq. ft. of space. These include both a Vector Production Facility that allows the company to reliably produce research-grade lentivirus vector batches for cell and animal experiments, and a Translational Science Laboratory to enable broad validation of gene therapy drug candidates to further build AGT’s extensive vector asset library.
The company’s commitment to the local economy and job market is reflected in its plans to fill several positions over the coming months and into the first quarter of 2018. These include roles in clinical affairs, research and development, laboratory technicians, and others. In addition to providing space for new employees, AGT’s new location has office clusters to inspire greater collaboration and interaction among groups, as well as extensive meeting space for vendor and/or collaborator interactions.