Animal health company Merial has acquired biologics manufacturer Newport Laboratories of Worthington, Minn., Merial reported today. Newport Laboratories uses molecular diagnostic technology to identify pathogens and produces autogenous vaccines with a focus on swine and bovine production markets, according to Duluth, Ga.-based Merial, a subsidiary of Paris-based Sanofi. “Newport has demonstrated over time the ability to screen field samples and produce autogenous vaccines from large integrated producers with remarkable efficiency,” said Jose Barella, CEO of Merial. “The combination of Newport’s expertise and Merial’s strength in technology and geographic footprint will reinforce our exposure to the swine market segment and illustrates our strategy to expand our position in treatments for production animals.” Autogenous vaccines are developed and produced from a virus or bacteria strain that has been isolated from the tissue samples submitted from a particular farm, according to Newport Laboratories, which in 2010 launched its first commercial swine vaccine for Haemophilus parasuis called ParaSail. Newport Laboratories will continue to operate from its Worthington offices. <HOME>
