WuXi Biologics, a leading global contract research, development and manufacturing organisation (CRDMO), has announced the launch of WuXia293Stable, a new platform designed to develop and manufacture innovative, difficult-to-express molecules using HEK293 cells. Featuring high titers, robust stability and superior quality, the platform enhances both the developability and manufacturability of complex biologics, providing an efficient chemistry, manufacturing and controls (CMC) solution for sophisticated structures and functions.

While Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells have been the industry standard for recombinant protein expression due to their high titers and proven scalability, certain complex modalities often face challenges in CHO systems, such as low yields and protein truncation caused by CHO-specific host cell proteins (HCPs). HEK293 cells, by contrast, can mitigate or eliminate these truncation issues while maintaining high expression levels, making them better suited for some advanced therapeutics.

Developed from WuXi Biologics’ proprietary HEK293 cell line and building on its proven WuXia mammalian cell line development platform, WuXia293Stable matches the productivity, quality and stability of its predecessors while being fully compatible with existing processes. It achieves fed-batch titers of up to 5.0 g/L for monoclonal antibodies, improves purity, and offers flexible scalability for research and pre-clinical needs. The platform supports stable expression and consistent quality during long-term cell passages, enabling manufacturing at scales of up to 2000L for fed-batch and 1000L for perfusion processes.

WuXi Biologics also offers end-to-end support for WuXia293Stable, including cell bank testing and viral clearance validation, as part of its integrated CMC service package. The addition of WuXia293Stable further expands the WuXia platform family, which already includes WuXiaADCC Plus for enhanced antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and WuXia RidGS for non-antibiotic cell line development.

Dr Chris Chen, CEO of WuXi Biologics, said the launch represents a significant milestone in enabling customers to accelerate the delivery of next-generation biologics. “WuXia293Stable exemplifies our commitment to technological innovation and our vision that every biologic can be made. We remain dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of the biopharmaceutical industry and supporting clients worldwide,” he said.

The WuXia platform family, which has generated over 1,000 cell lines accepted by global regulators for clinical and commercial manufacturing, continues to evolve to meet the diverse demands of the biologics sector. With WuXia293Stable, WuXi Biologics aims to unlock new possibilities in the efficient manufacturing of complex therapeutic proteins for patients across the globe.