Merck Introduces Single-Use Reactor to Speed Up ADC Production

Merck, a prominent player in science and technology, has introduced the first scalable single-use reactor specifically crafted for the production of antibody drug conjugates (ADCs). These ADCs are a groundbreaking category of therapeutic agents that target and eliminate tumor cells while sparing healthy ones. The newly launched Mobius® ADC Reactor is designed to address the unique challenges associated with ADC manufacturing, aiming to enhance the efficiency and safety of biopharmaceutical production processes.

Sebastian Arana, the Head of Process Solutions for Merck’s Life Science business, states, “We have been pioneers in providing single-use solutions for flexible biopharmaceutical manufacturing for over 15 years. Leveraging this extensive experience, we are now ready to expedite the production of antibody-drug conjugates. The Mobius® ADC Reactor will enable our customers to deliver essential therapies to a global audience more rapidly.”

Traditional ADC manufacturing methods rely on stainless steel or glass reactors, which are not only labor-intensive but also expensive due to the rigorous cleaning procedures required. Single-use technology, on the other hand, offers a cost-effective, flexible, and faster alternative. However, its adoption in ADC manufacturing has faced challenges due to specific chemical compatibility and quality requirements. The Mobius® ADC Reactor overcomes these hurdles by providing quicker turnaround times and minimizing cross-contamination risks, all while ensuring high product quality. This innovative reactor improves performance by eliminating potent liquid waste and boosting efficiency by 70%. It also features single-use assemblies made with Ultimus® Film technology, ensuring enhanced bag strength, durability, and leak resistance.

Merck provides a comprehensive range of solutions tailored to the needs of ADC manufacturing. This includes Mobius® single-use systems for chromatography and tangential flow filtration (TFF), particularly effective in closed-mode operations, along with consumables like the Pellicon® capsule. Additionally, Merck offers contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) and testing services for ADCs and high-potent active pharmaceutical ingredients (HPAPIs).

ADCs are specialized medications that target specific cells, such as cancer cells, within the body. They function by combining a monoclonal antibody (mAb), which acts as a targeting guide, with a drug. The mAb identifies and binds to specific antigens on the surface of targeted cells, enabling the direct delivery of the drug, which then destroys the cell. This targeted mechanism minimizes damage to surrounding healthy cells, thereby reducing side effects compared to other treatments. Consequently, ADCs offer a more precise and safer approach to treating diseases. The potential of ADCs has led to significant growth in the field, with 13 ADCs currently approved by the FDA, eight of which have been approved since 2019.

Merck is a global leader in science and technology, operating across various sectors including life science, healthcare, and electronics. With a workforce of around 63,000 employees, the company is dedicated to making a positive impact on millions of lives by fostering sustainable and innovative solutions. In 2023, Merck reported sales of €21 billion across 65 countries. Since its founding in 1668, Merck has thrived on scientific exploration and responsible entrepreneurship, with the founding family remaining the majority owner. Merck holds global rights to its name and brand, with the exception of the United States and Canada, where its life science, healthcare, and electronics sectors operate as MilliporeSigma, EMD Serono, and EMD Electronics respectively.