Centocor Ortho Biotech, Inc.

Centocor Ortho Biotech, Inc. was a biotechnology company that played a significant role in the development of innovative biomedicines. The company was known for its work in the field of biologics, focusing on treatments for chronic inflammatory diseases, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. Centocor Ortho Biotech, Inc. was a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, one of the world's largest healthcare companies.

History

Centocor was founded in 1979 with a focus on research in monoclonal antibody technology. Over the years, the company made significant strides in biotechnology, leading to the development of several key pharmaceuticals. In 1999, Centocor became a part of Johnson & Johnson in a move that expanded J&J's capabilities in the biotechnology sector. Following the acquisition, Centocor continued to operate as a semi-autonomous entity, maintaining its focus on biomedicine.

In 2008, Centocor's name was changed to Centocor Ortho Biotech, Inc. after it merged with Ortho Biotech, another Johnson & Johnson subsidiary known for its work in the field of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents and oncology support products. This merger was aimed at consolidating J&J's biotechnology endeavors under a single, more efficient entity.

Products

Centocor Ortho Biotech, Inc. was responsible for the development and marketing of several important biologic treatments. Among its most notable products were:

• Remicade (infliximab) - A monoclonal antibody used in the treatment of autoimmune diseases such as Crohn's Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Psoriasis.
• Simponi (golimumab) - Another monoclonal antibody targeting autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.
• Stelara (ustekinumab) - A biologic treatment for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, targeting the interleukin-12 and interleukin-23 pathways.

These products have had a significant impact on the management of chronic inflammatory diseases, offering patients new hope and improved quality of life.

Research and Development

Centocor Ortho Biotech, Inc. was committed to advancing the field of biotechnology through rigorous research and development. The company's R&D efforts were focused on identifying new targets for biologic therapy and developing innovative treatments that could address unmet medical needs. Centocor Ortho Biotech's research pipeline included potential treatments for a variety of conditions, including cancer, infectious diseases, and cardiovascular disorders.

Acquisition and Legacy

In 2011, Centocor Ortho Biotech, Inc. underwent another name change, becoming Janssen Biotech, Inc., as part of a broader rebranding effort by Johnson & Johnson to unify its biotechnology and pharmaceutical businesses under the Janssen brand. Despite the name change, the legacy of Centocor Ortho Biotech, Inc. lives on through its contributions to the field of biomedicine and the ongoing impact of its products on patient care.