New acquisition strengthens downstream processing capabilities 

Merck has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the chromatography business of JSR Life Sciences, strengthening its portfolio in Protein A chromatography and downstream bioprocessing. The move is set to enhance Merck’s ability to accelerate antibody purification, supporting the efficient production of next-generation biopharmaceuticals, including monoclonal antibodies. The acquisition is expected to close by the end of Q2 2026.

“This acquisition strengthens our position in bioprocessing and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to monoclonal antibody production technologies,” said Sebastián Arana, Head of Process Solutions, Life Science business at Merck. “By integrating JSR’s Protein A expertise with our portfolio, we can help customers increase the speed, efficiency, and reliability of antibody therapy manufacturing.”

Protein A chromatography is a critical step in purifying monoclonal antibodies and therapeutic proteins for the treatment of cancers, autoimmune diseases, and infectious conditions. By improving purity, safety, and production reliability, the process ensures faster patient access to vital therapies.

Based in Belgium, JSR Life Sciences’ chromatography business employs more than 50 people and is renowned for its high-performance Amsphere™ A3 and A+ Protein A resins. These resins deliver robust purification performance across a wide range of monoclonal antibodies. “Under Merck’s global platform, our Amsphere™ Protein A technologies can reach more customers worldwide, accelerating therapies to market with greater confidence,” said Tim Lowery, President of JSR Life Sciences.

Merck’s comprehensive downstream portfolio spans filtration technologies, chromatography resins, buffers, chemicals, hardware, integrated systems, and validation services, helping customers optimize drug development and manufacturing with speed, safety, and reliability.

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