Peptides, built from amino acids, are being used to break new ground in the field of medicine. Bachem Holding is poised to push the boundaries as it takes peptides applications from scientific research to development of new active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), supply of generic drug substances - and beyond. The partner of choice of some of the world's most successful biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, Bachem is the leader in the process, development and manufacture of biologically active peptides. "More than 40 years of know-how and technologies have raised us among the only three major players in the peptide API industry worldwide," says Bachem CEO Dr Thomas Fruh. "It is our passion to keep ahead of the game that enables us to be the best partner for equally driven companies." One of Bachem's breakthroughs is the development of synthetic aprotinin. This small protein API could only be produced from animal sources prior to the company's innovation. Bachem also produces the peptide goserelin, which goes into Zoladex, an injectable gonadotropin-releasing hormone superagonist marketed by AstraZeneca for the treatment of endometriosis, breast and prostate cancers and other diseases. While 90 per cent of its business is in Europe and the United States, Bachem forecasts that Asia - with its fast-growing economy and quality of life - may soon become its biggest growth opportunity. Bachem's strategy is to gradually build relationships through its Asian network, allowing the "natural evolution" of its presence, particularly in China, whose 12th five-year plan highlights strategic industries such as pharmaceuticals. Apart from pursuing geographical expansion, Bachem looks forward to exploring peptides application in diagnostics, cosmetics, animal health and material science. "The best work with the best," Fruh says. "When it comes to peptides, we bring value to our potential partners' businesses wherever they are in the world." Bachem Holding www.bachem.com
