Genzyme Corporation

Genzyme Corporation

Genzyme Corporation was a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It was one of the world's leading biotechnology companies, known for its development of treatments for rare genetic disorders. Genzyme was acquired by Sanofi in 2011.

History

Genzyme was founded in 1981 by Sheridan Snyder and George M. Whitesides. The company initially focused on developing enzyme replacement therapies for rare genetic disorders. Over the years, Genzyme expanded its research and development efforts to include treatments for a variety of diseases, including multiple sclerosis, cancer, and renal disease.

In 2011, Genzyme was acquired by the French pharmaceutical company Sanofi for approximately $20.1 billion. This acquisition allowed Sanofi to expand its presence in the biotechnology sector and gain access to Genzyme's innovative therapies.

Products and Research

Genzyme was known for its development of enzyme replacement therapies, particularly for lysosomal storage disorders. Some of its notable products include:

• Cerezyme (imiglucerase) - used to treat Gaucher's disease.
• Fabrazyme (agalsidase beta) - used to treat Fabry disease.
• Myozyme (alglucosidase alfa) - used to treat Pompe disease.

In addition to these therapies, Genzyme also developed treatments for other conditions, such as:

• Aubagio (teriflunomide) - an oral treatment for multiple sclerosis.
• Campath (alemtuzumab) - used in the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia and multiple sclerosis.

Impact and Legacy

Genzyme was a pioneer in the field of biotechnology, particularly in the development of treatments for rare diseases. The company's focus on rare genetic disorders helped to bring attention to these conditions and spurred further research and development in the field.

The acquisition by Sanofi allowed Genzyme's therapies to reach a broader market and provided Sanofi with a strong foothold in the biotechnology industry. Genzyme's legacy continues through its contributions to the development of innovative therapies and its impact on the biotechnology sector.

See Also

• Biotechnology
• Enzyme replacement therapy
• Sanofi

References

• "Sanofi Completes Acquisition of Genzyme." Sanofi Press Release, April 2011.
• "Genzyme: A History of Innovation." Genzyme Corporate Website.