Horizon Discovery Group plc (LSE: HZD), the world leader in the application of gene editing technologies, announces progress of its gene and cell therapy platform for contract service and therapeutic applications.

The new offering will make use of Horizon’s extensive suite of gene editing technologies, including CRISPR and its proprietary rAAV and Transposon technologies, to edit pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) and primary human lymphocytes.

Horizon is already working with three clients to support preclinical development across a variety of gene and cell therapy treatments in areas of high unmet medical need. This work is expected to contribute more than $2 million in revenue in 2017.

In addition, Horizon’s research biotech business is looking to exploit its unique IP and expertise to develop a universal cell therapy platform to support companies focused on developing autologous and allogeneic (“off the shelf”) cell therapy projects in areas of high unmet medical need. These include immuno-oncology, autoimmune diseases, rare genetic diseases, metabolic, neurological and blood disorders.

Dr Darrin M Disley, Chief Executive Officer, Horizon Discovery Group, commented: “Horizon is a world leader in gene editing, and our deep expertise combined with our suite of proprietary technologies makes us the perfect “go-to” partner for companies targeting gene and cell therapies across a range of diseases. The use of genetic screening approaches for novel target identification and precision gene editing for the subsequent development of gene and cell therapies are areas of burgeoning interest in biotech and pharma. Repairing the direct causes of genetic diseases, either at the DNA or cellular level will enable the personalised treatment of diseases at a lower cost and with better therapeutic results.”

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