Horizon Discovery Group plc (LSE: HZD), a global leader in the application of gene editing and gene modulation to deliver inspired cell solutions, announces that it has entered into a partnership with Genewell Biotechnology Limited (“Genewell”), an innovative life science company focused on accelerating the standardisation of diagnostic testing in China.

Under the terms of the agreement, Genewell will manufacture Horizon reference standards within China and distribute them as Research Use Only (RUO) products to Chinese diagnostic companies for use in their assay development programmes.  Genewell will simultaneously pursue approval for the use of Horizon’s reference standards with the Chinese Food and Drug Administration (CFDA). Once approved, these reference standards have the potential to be sold directly to the broader clinical laboratory market through Genewell’s existing reach within China. Horizon will receive a royalty on all reference standards sold.

Mr. Richard Vellacott, Interim CEO and CFO, Horizon Discovery, commented: “As part of our global leadership strategy, Horizon has established the relationships and reputation needed to succeed in China. Our partnership with Genewell enables us to accelerate the process of bringing our high quality reference standards, both pre-existing and newly developed, to the whole of the Chinese market.”

Jing Liang, Founder and Spokesperson, Genewell Biotechnology, commented: “Genewell seeks to help drive improvements in clinical diagnostic testing, and so we are pleased to be able to make Horizon’s high quality Reference Standards more broadly available within China.”