Ginkgo Bioworks Holdings, Inc. reports developments around cell engineering, autonomous laboratory infrastructure, and contract research services that make biological R&D more programmable. Its updates cover Ginkgo Cloud Lab, Datapoints and Solutions services, Reconfigurable Automation Carts, Catalyst automation software, and AI-enabled workflows for protein engineering, nucleic acid design, cell-free systems, and biological manufacturing.
Company news also includes financial-results presentations, customer and research collaborations, agricultural biotechnology manufacturing work, and capital or governance updates. Following the completed divestiture of its Biosecurity business, recurring coverage centers on Ginkgo's autonomous lab strategy, remote wet-lab access, microbial strain engineering, fermentation processes, and the commercial use of lab-generated biological data.
Ginkgo Bioworks (NYSE: DNA) announced preliminary performance updates for 2022, anticipating total revenue within the range of $460-480 million. The company reported a year-end cash balance of approximately $1.3 billion, enhancing its liquidity amidst economic challenges. Ginkgo expects to add 55-60 new Cell Programs and noted growth in biopharma customer engagement, particularly through the launch of Ginkgo Enzyme Services and the opening of Bioworks7 for mammalian cell engineering. A detailed financial report is set for March 2023.
On January 9, 2023, Prokarium and Ginkgo Bioworks (NYSE: DNA) announced their partnership to create a bactofection platform for delivering RNA-based therapeutics. This innovative gene delivery system utilizes genetically modified Salmonella bacteria to target and transfer therapeutic agents directly into mammalian cells, circumventing challenges associated with viral delivery methods. The collaboration aims to unlock new possibilities in immuno-oncology and enhance treatment options for cancer. Both companies emphasize the potential of this approach to revolutionize therapeutic modalities.
Ginkgo Bioworks (NYSE: DNA) has announced the opening of Bioworks7, a new facility in Boston aimed at enhancing its capabilities in biopharmaceutical manufacturing and mammalian programming. This expansion increases the company's capacity to support partners in cell and gene therapy and lowers costs associated with biological design. The Bioworks7 facility spans 6,600 square feet and features advanced robotics for stem cell engineering. Ginkgo's growth is further backed by new team expertise and recent partnerships with major biotech firms.
Esperovax and Ginkgo Bioworks (NYSE: DNA) have formed a partnership to develop circular RNAs (circRNAs) targeted at colorectal cancer. This collaboration focuses on using circRNAs to deliver therapeutic payloads that induce cell death specifically in cancerous cells, minimizing harm to healthy cells. Ginkgo's high-throughput screening and computational approaches will optimize Esperovax's mechanisms for therapeutic delivery. Ginkgo's expertise in cell and gene therapy enhances their capacity to innovate in RNA therapeutics, addressing critical needs in oncology.
Ginkgo Bioworks (NYSE: DNA) announced that CEO Jason Kelly will present at the 41st Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference on January 11, 2023, at 11:15 a.m. PT. Kelly will discuss Ginkgo's biopharma capabilities, including its Ginkgo Enzyme Services and high throughput pooled screening for CAR-T designs. The company offers end-to-end services in cell programming across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals and food. Further details, including a webcast link, will be available on their investor relations website.
Ginkgo Bioworks (NYSE: DNA) and Botswana's Ministry of Health have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance biosecurity in Botswana. The collaboration aims to equip local health institutions with advanced biosecurity tools, training, and data infrastructure. This initiative focuses on developing pathogen monitoring programs at key locations and reinforcing Botswana's public health capabilities. Both parties recognize the necessity of international cooperation for effective biosecurity in response to emerging biological threats.
On December 8, 2022, Ginkgo Bioworks (NYSE: DNA) announced the launch of Ginkgo Enzyme Services, a platform aimed at enhancing enzyme engineering through machine learning and high-throughput screening. This service will assist R&D teams in identifying and optimizing novel enzyme activities for various industries, including pharmaceuticals and agriculture. A virtual event on December 15, 2022 will further detail this service. Ginkgo's innovative approach supports cost-effective and environmentally friendly enzyme production, potentially impacting market dynamics.
Ginkgo Bioworks (NYSE: DNA) announced the granting of 18,173,253 restricted stock units as part of its recent employee compensation strategy related to the acquisitions of Bayer CropScience LP and Zymergen Inc. Specifically, 9,868,143 units were awarded to former Bayer employees, and 8,305,110 units to former Zymergen employees. These grants were issued without stockholder approval as inducements to new hires. Vesting schedules vary by employee type, with some units vesting fully upon termination without cause. This move aims to bolster employee retention and align interests.
Ginkgo Bioworks (NYSE: DNA) announced a public offering of its Class A common stock, expecting to raise approximately $100 million with BTIG, LLC as the underwriter. The last sale price was $2.67 per share on November 15, 2022. The offering includes a 30-day option for BTIG to purchase an additional $15 million worth of shares. Proceeds will be used to offset costs associated with acquiring assets from Bayer CropScience LP and for general corporate purposes. The offering is expected to close around November 18, 2022.
On November 15, 2022, Ginkgo Bioworks (NYSE: DNA) announced a proposed underwritten public offering of $100 million of its Class A common stock. The company is also granting underwriters a 30-day option to purchase an additional $15 million. Ginkgo plans to use the net proceeds to offset costs related to the acquisition of Bayer CropScience LP's assets and for general corporate purposes. The offering will occur under an effective shelf registration statement previously filed with the SEC.