Genzyme

Genzyme Corporation is a biotechnology company based in Massachusetts.

On June 16, 2009, Genzyme announced they had shut down a production facility near Boston while they disinfection the site from a viral contamination. According to Genzyme, the virus that was detected is not dangerous to people but they are temporarily shutting down the facility as a precaution.

The prescription drugs Cerezyme and Fabrazyme are produced at Boston facility and supplies will be limited due to the shutdown.The facility is expected to be closed until the end of July 2009.WSJ: Genzyme Plant Closure Hits Key Drugs, Raises Issues (June 16, 2009)

• Genetic Diseases

• Cardiometabolic and Renal

• Oncology

• Orthopaedics/Biosurgical Specialties

• Transplant

• Genetics/Diagnostics

On June 16, 2009, Genzyme Corp. announced a viral contamination was discovered in one of six bioreactors at a production facility near Boston and as a precaution, the site would be closed until the end of July 2009 while it is cleaned.

Living cells are produced by the bioreactors and those cells are used to create biotech-based drugs Cerezyme and Fabrazyme. Due to the temporary closure, supplies of those drugs will be limited.

Fabrazyme may be used as a treatment for Fabry disease. A buildup of a specific fat in the body's cells causes the inherited genetic disorder.

Cerezyme may be used in the treatment of Gaucher disease, an enzyme disorder may cause liver and neurological problems.Forbes: Genzyme faces production delays for key drugs (June 16, 2009)