Integrated solution aims to reduce time and cost to lead candidates, advancing safer and more effective gene therapies to patients faster.

Azenta, Inc.announced a strategic partnership between GENEWIZ from Azenta Life Sciences, a global provider of multiomics and synthetic solutions services, and Form Bio, a leading artificial intelligence (AI) life sciences technology company, to enhance adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy development through a fully integrated sequencing and data analysis solution.

This partnership brings together GENEWIZ's industry-leading next-generation sequencing services for AAV gene therapy with Form Bio's AI- and machine learning-powered analysis pipelines. The integration of these capabilities aims to provide gene therapy developers with data-driven insights into AAV capsid contents, improving safety, efficacy, and manufacturability.

GENEWIZ will provide synthesis and packaging of transgene expression cassettes, complemented by high-quality, long-read sequencing services for AAV gene therapy. Form Bio will conduct comprehensive AAV Genome Integrity Characterization using Long-read AAV Analysis (LAAVA) software, identifying key opportunities to enhance vector integrity and safety, while providing actionable insights through detailed reporting. This combination enables a streamlined process that integrates sequencing, vector design, and development workflows, ultimately reducing time and cost to reach lead candidates, accelerating the path to market for innovative therapies.

"Our collaboration with Form Bio marks a major step forward in simplifying AAV gene therapy workflows," said Ginger Zhou, President at GENEWIZ. "By combining our sequencing expertise with their cutting-edge analysis, we are enabling researchers to make more informed decisions and break through traditional hurdles found in gene therapy development."

"Partnering with GENEWIZ allows us to embed our genome integrity insights directly into sequencing workflows," said Andrew Busey, Co-Founder and CEO at Form Bio. "By integrating analysis earlier in the process, we're helping gene therapy developers accelerate timelines, enhance vector safety, and improve the likelihood for clinical success."