Transferra Nanosciences Inc. operated as a specialized contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) focused on lipid-based drug delivery systems, with particular expertise in liposomal and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations for parenteral pharmaceuticals.
Founded in 1991 in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada, initially as Northern Lipids Inc., the company evolved to offer comprehensive Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) services to biotechnology and pharmaceutical firms globally. Key activities included lead prototype identification, formulation development using lipid nanoparticle science, scale-up and process optimization, analytical method development and qualification, production of materials for toxicology studies, and cGMP manufacturing of clinical trial supplies.
Additionally, Transferra manufactured and supplied LIPEX extruders for liposome preparation at various scales, supporting both research and commercial production. The company played a pioneering role in advancing nanomedicine technologies, developing numerous formulations for applications in oncology, gene therapy, and other therapeutic areas.
In June 2016, Evonik Industries AG acquired the business and assets of Transferra Nanosciences Inc. The transaction closed later that year, integrating the Canadian operations into Evonik's Health Care business line. Today, the site continues as Evonik Vancouver Laboratories, building on Transferra's legacy of innovation in lipid-based delivery systems while expanding Evonik's global capabilities in this sector.
With its headquarters in Burnaby near Vancouver, Transferra established itself as a key Canadian player in the international CDMO landscape for advanced drug delivery prior to its acquisition by the German multinational specialty chemicals company.
Also known as Northern Lipids Inc. and Northern Lipids.
New plant adds clinical-scale lipid nanoparticle drug product capacity with federal support; production is planned to start at the end of 2029.
