The current tools available for AAV capsid capture and purification have been based on technologies developed for monoclonal antibodies production, and in general are not optimized for viral vectors. The majority of methods available for AAV capture employ affinity chromatography using antibody ligand technology. These products are costly and are not adapted for high yield of quality capsids.
Astrea is a UK based SME company with over 30 years history of successful development of affinity adsorbents targeting the separation of biomolecules. A collaboration with the NRC would focus on the development of more cost effective, robust, and scalable AAV particle separation methods, using novel chromatography techniques. The NRC has significant experience in producing AAV viral vectors together with associated assay techniques and purification methodologies, and Astrea has significant experience in the development of robust and effective chromatography adsorbents and downstream processes. Collaboration will provide benefit to both parties and place the UK and Canada as leading developers of improved manufacturing processes for advance biotherapies