Nektar Therapeutics Transfers PEGylation Business to Gannet BioChem for Strategic Focus Shift
- Nektar Therapeutics transitioned its PEGylation reagent business to Gannet BioChem, streamlining focus on core therapeutic development.
- Gannet BioChem, now independent, specializes in PEG reagents with over 30 years of manufacturing expertise.
- The acquisition underscores Nektar's commitment to quality and innovation in the evolving biotechnology landscape.

Nektar Therapeutics Transitions PEGylation Reagent Business to Gannet BioChem
Nektar Therapeutics has officially transitioned its PEGylation reagent manufacturing division to Ampersand Capital Partners, which rebrands the operation as Gannet BioChem. This acquisition marks a significant strategic shift for Nektar, allowing the company to streamline its focus on core therapeutic development while entrusting its PEGylation capabilities to a dedicated entity. Gannet BioChem, now an independent Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), operates out of a cutting-edge facility in Huntsville, Alabama, which has been established as a leader in the production of polyethylene glycol (PEG) reagents critical for biopharmaceutical products.
Gannet BioChem brings over 30 years of expertise in PEG reagent development and manufacturing, ensuring that it meets the stringent requirements of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) production. With a robust portfolio that includes contributions to nine FDA-approved therapeutics, the newly formed company is well-positioned to support a wide array of biopharmaceutical needs. The facility boasts a flexible production capability, allowing for both small-scale and commercial-scale manufacturing, which is essential for meeting the diverse demands of the industry. Gannet BioChem's team, with an average tenure of 13 years, emphasizes a culture of quality and innovation, ensuring that the company can maintain high standards throughout its production processes.
Additionally, Gannet BioChem benefits from its strategic location near the USA's second-largest life sciences research park, fostering collaboration with other biotechnology ventures. The facility's 124,000 square foot infrastructure is designed for future expansion, positioning the company for growth in a rapidly evolving market. The company’s commitment to quality is underscored by its FDA-inspected status and an impressive compliance record, which are paramount for maintaining trust and reliability among its global customer base. David Anderson, General Partner at Ampersand Capital Partners, expresses confidence in Gannet BioChem’s potential to excel as a specialized PEG reagents provider, emphasizing the importance of quality and reliability in their operations.
The transition of Nektar's PEGylation business to Gannet BioChem not only showcases the company’s commitment to quality and innovation but also highlights the growing importance of specialized CDMOs in the biotechnology landscape. As the industry continues to evolve, Gannet BioChem is set to play a crucial role in the development and manufacture of PEG reagents, supporting the advancement of therapeutic products that improve patient outcomes globally.
In the wake of this acquisition, Gannet BioChem appears poised for success, leveraging its extensive expertise and state-of-the-art facilities to meet the increasing demands of the biopharmaceutical industry. As the market for advanced therapeutics expands, the independent operation of Gannet BioChem allows for a more focused approach to PEGylation, potentially leading to enhanced efficiencies and innovations in drug development.