Salt-tolerant endonucleases, the benefits for viral vector manufacturing and a comparison of two marketed enzymes
Cell & Gene Therapy Insights 2025; 11(3), 305–317
DOI: 10.18609/cgti.2025.035
Recombinantly produced Serratia marcescens endonucleases, such as DENARASE® and Benzonase®*, are widely used for DNA removal in viral vector production processes. To achieve higher vector yields, manufacturers are increasingly using higher salt concentrations, up to 500 mM, which adversely impacts the activity of S. marcescens endonucleases. Consequently, producers of viral vectors are seeking alternative, more salt-tolerant enzymes for nucleic acid digestion.
In this article, we describe the making of DENARASE® High Salt, an engineered variant of the Serratia marcescens wild-type enzyme, and its potential to streamline viral vector manufacturing processes. In addition, we present test results from an independent, not-for-profit CGT research and technology organization, comparing the new enzyme with another commercially available salt-tolerant endonuclease.
c-LEcta, a leading international supplier of enzymes for the biopharmaceutical industry, proudly announces the launch of the GMP-grade version of DENARASE® High Salt, a strategic extension of its DENARASE® portfolio. Following the launch of the R&D grade in March 2024, DENARASE® High Salt is now also available as GMP-grade, intended to serve customers with clinical and commercial stage processes that require compliance with the highest quality standards. More information on www.denarase.com