A biomedical research facility in New South Wales is expanding to a commercial scale to produce life-saving therapies and vaccines. The goal is to make the city a global research hub. The lab at Sydney’s Westmead specializes in using viral vectors for treating cancer, genetic diseases, and infections. Viral vector technology utilizes harmless viruses to transport genetic therapies to target organs and systems that cause significant human diseases. Establishing a commercial company is seen as a way to ensure the facility’s sustainable and long-term success, according to the government.
The first stage of the expansion is operational for gene therapy research, with the first clinical trial expected in 2025 using vectors from the facility. The second stage, currently under construction, will provide commercial-scale viral vector manufacturing for New South Wales, ensuring the ability to meet growing demand. The company will produce the vectors and supply them to specialized healthcare staff who will administer the therapies to patients. The state government has committed $134.5 million to establish the facility and manufacture viral vector products for research and clinical trials.
Health Minister Ryan Park highlighted the life-changing benefits of the facility for those suffering from genetic diseases, cancers, and viral infections. He emphasized the rapid expansion of therapies targeting a variety of conditions, underscoring the need for increased manufacturing capacity. Treasurer Daniel Mookhey praised New South Wales as a global leader in gene therapies, cell therapies, and vaccines using viral vectors. The facility in Western Sydney is seen as key in meeting local manufacturing demand and further solidifying the region’s leadership in the field.