Sigma-Aldrich and Sangamo BioSciences enacted an expansion of their existing license agreement to include the exclusive rights to develop and distribute zinc finger DNA binding protein (ZFP)-modified cell lines for commercial production of protein pharmaceuticals. Additionally, Sigma-Aldrich licensed rights to certain ZFP-engineered transgenic animals for commercial applications.
The companies first formed an alliance in 2007 focused on the development of laboratory research reagents based upon Sangamo’s ZFP technology. In July they reported development of the first genetically modified rats using zinc finger nuclease (ZFN) technology. Sigma-Aldrich markets Sangamo’s ZFN technology through its CompoZr™ line of products and services.