Genzyme

Genzyme is a pioneering biotechnology company that was founded in 1981. It is a subsidiary of Sanofi, a multinational pharmaceutical company. Genzyme has made significant contributions to the medical field, particularly in the development of treatments for rare genetic diseases.

History

Genzyme was founded in 1981 by Henri A. Termeer, a Dutch-American businessman who served as the company's CEO for nearly three decades. The company was initially focused on providing diagnostic enzymes for the healthcare industry. However, it soon shifted its focus to the development of treatments for rare genetic diseases, a field that was largely overlooked by the pharmaceutical industry at the time.

Products and Services

Genzyme's product portfolio includes treatments for a variety of rare genetic diseases, including Gaucher's disease, Fabry disease, Pompe disease, and Mucopolysaccharidosis I (MPS I). The company's first product, Ceredase, was a treatment for Gaucher's disease. It was followed by Cerezyme, a similar product that was easier to produce and administer.

In addition to its products for rare diseases, Genzyme also produces treatments for thyroid cancer, multiple sclerosis, and cholesterol management. The company's multiple sclerosis product, Lemtrada, has been particularly successful, with sales exceeding $1 billion in 2017.

Acquisition by Sanofi

In 2011, Genzyme was acquired by Sanofi, a multinational pharmaceutical company based in France. The acquisition was valued at $20.1 billion, making it one of the largest in the biotechnology industry. Since the acquisition, Genzyme has continued to operate as a subsidiary of Sanofi, with its headquarters remaining in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Impact

Genzyme's focus on rare genetic diseases has had a significant impact on the medical field. The company's products have provided life-changing treatments for patients with diseases that were previously untreatable. Furthermore, Genzyme's success has encouraged other companies to invest in the development of treatments for rare diseases, leading to significant advancements in this field.

File:Genzyme Building.jpg

The Genzyme Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts

See Also

• Biotechnology
• Sanofi
• Rare diseases
• Henri A. Termeer

References

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