Green manufacturing in pharma: Sustainable oligonucleotide production on an industrial scale

Philipp Markolin, Scientific Marketing Manager at peptide and oligonucleotide manufacturers Bachem, shares their expertise on sustainable production methods in the pharma industry

- Philipp Markolin

Oligonucleotides are at the forefront of modern medicine, and have emerged as powerful tools in treating diseases in recent years. Oligonucleotides - short DNA or RNA molecules that host a range of applications in genetic testing, research, and forensics have seen a marked growth in significance as therapeutics. As their clinical application widens, methods of production must be robust to ensure demand is met.

Demand for oligonucleotides in medicines is steadily increasing, with a pressing need for an eco-friendly manufacturing process which satisfies green manufacturing standards without compromising yield or process efficiency. Thus, the responsibility lies with manufacturers to ensure end users receive their medications, while striving for sustainable production methods.

The importance of sustainable oligonucleotide synthesis

The need for sustainability in oligonucleotide manufacturing is increasing rapidly, driven by the growing use of these therapeutics to treat a diverse variety of conditions. With the oligonucleotide and peptide therapeutics market projected to grow at an annual rate of 17.5 per cent through 2030, the industry faces significant challenges such as high production costs, waste, and energy-intensive processes.

With new oligonucleotide-based drugs being approved for development on a regular basis, the need for affordable and eco-friendly methods of production becomes more ur- recycling, process efficiency, gent.

The benefits of green manufacturing are twofold: sustainable practices help reduce environmental impact, but also address economic and regulatory demands, leading to improved efficiency and accountability.

What steps can pharma manufacturers take to improve sustainability?