Biotechnology and Vaccine Development
Biotechnology, as one of the most dynamic fields of modern medicine, continues to drive transformative advancements in both diagnostics and therapeutic applications. In particular, developments in recombinant DNA technologies, cell culture systems, and monoclonal antibody production have significantly expanded the range of treatment options on a global scale.
In this context, Atabay, a well-established pharmaceutical company in Türkiye, has positioned biotechnology and vaccine development as strategic priorities.
Atabay actively engages in national and international collaborations, technology transfer initiatives, and joint R&D projects. These partnerships foster knowledge exchange and contribute to strengthening domestic production capabilities.
Atabay Bio
Atabay Biotechnology was established in 2019 within Atabay’s Gebze campus, initially as an R&D facility dedicated to biotechnological activities. In 2021, following the approval of GMP certification and manufacturing authorization from the Turkish Ministry of Health, the facility commenced pilot-scale production under GMP conditions to support clinical studies.
With an area of approximately 220 m², the facility is capable of carrying out the entire production process—from cell banking to final product manufacturing. It is equipped with pilot-scale bioreactors for microbial cultures, chromatographic purification systems, and lyophilization units, enabling the production of biosimilars, as well as protein- and DNA-based vaccines.
Biosimilar Development
Atabay’s investments in biotechnology are closely aligned with Türkiye’s strategic objective of increasing domestic production capacity. The company focuses on the development of biosimilar products to localize the manufacturing of high-cost biotechnological medicines, which represent a significant portion of pharmaceutical imports.
Biosimilars offer more accessible and cost-effective alternatives to original biological medicines, making them particularly important for developing markets.
In addition, Atabay conducts R&D activities on recombinant protein-based therapies using advanced technologies such as cell culture and protein engineering. This approach is designed to create competitive advantages not only in Türkiye but also in international markets.
Vaccine Development
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical importance of local and reliable vaccine production capabilities. In response, Atabay has made strategic investments to contribute to Türkiye’s vaccine development ecosystem.
The company collaborates with leading academic institutions to develop innovative vaccine solutions, particularly those based on recombinant DNA technologies, with the aim of addressing national healthcare needs.
Currently, Atabay is actively working on vaccine projects based on both recombinant DNA and DNA-based platforms. Through these collaborative efforts, the company aims to play a leading role in the development of vaccines that will safeguard public health in potential future pandemic scenarios.
A Strategic Contribution to National Healthcare
Atabay’s biotechnology and vaccine initiatives represent not only a corporate growth strategy but also a commitment to reducing Türkiye’s dependency on imported healthcare products. According to World Health Organization data, the share of biotechnological products in the global pharmaceutical market is rapidly increasing. Achieving a competitive position in this field is essential for sustainable healthcare systems.
Atabay’s investments in biotechnology and vaccines constitute a strategic step toward strengthening domestic production capacity while enhancing Türkiye’s role in the global healthcare ecosystem.
Atabay continues to translate this principle into concrete actions—contributing to both its corporate growth and the future of healthcare in Türkiye.