HTL Biotechnology: A path toward Innovation and Global Leadership

Since its inception in 1992, HTL Biotechnology has been at the forefront of innovation in biopolymers, pioneering the production of pharmaceutical-grade hyaluronic acid (HA) through bacterial fermentation. This groundbreaking technology represented a major shift from animal-derived sources, ensuring higher purity and safety. Partly produced by hand in the form of fibers, the process required a level of precision akin to “Haute couture”, making HTL a true innovator in the industry to this day. Through this article, we invite you to discover the history of HTL Biotechnology, the flagship of Made In France biotechnology.Pioneering Pharmaceutical-Grade Hyaluronic Acid

Pioneering Pharma-Grade Hyaluronic Acid

By 2007, with the rising demand for high-purity HA in ophthalmology, rheumatology, and aesthetic medicine, HTL made a strategic leap forward. The company invested heavily in cutting-edge GMP-certified production facilities, refining its specialization in hyaluronic acid. This commitment to quality and innovation propelled HTL to become the global leader in the production of pharmaceutical-grade HA active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Simultaneously, HTL expanded its research and development (R&D) capabilities, equipping itself with state-of-the-art laboratories to drive the next generation of polymer innovations.

Expanding Beyond Hyaluronic Acid

Alongside the production of hyaluronic acid, HTL has further diversified its expertise by accelerating the production of Polynucleotides to meet growing market demand. This strategic expansion has strengthened HTL’s position as a key player in advanced biopolymer solutions. Other biopolymers will be added/reinforced to the portfolio, notably collagen, to create a broad and compelling portfolio to meet the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s customers.

Growing our Manufacturing Excellence

As a testament to our continued growth, HTL inaugurated HTL4 in 2021, the world’s largest pharmaceutical-grade HA production facility. Today, the site continues to expand, with the construction of 2 manufacturing units in 2024. This step has strengthened HTL’s leadership and enabled the company to meet the growing global demand for high-quality biopolymers.

A Global Expansion Strategy

HTL’s international presence has flourished in parallel with its technological advancements. The company has strengthened its global footprint by establishing R&D centers and manufacturing units in the United States and commercial subsidiaries across Asia, including Singapore, China, and South Korea. These strategic expansions have enabled HTL to better serve its partners worldwide, reinforcing its role as a trusted and innovative partner.

A Vision for the Future: Recombinant Proteins and New Biopolymer Frontiers

In recent years, HTL has continued to broaden its portfolio of cutting-edge biopolymers. The introduction of heparosan in the portfolio and the acquisition of the biomedical division of a US company in 2024 marked a new era for the company. This strategic acquisition brought a revolutionary recombinant protein platform to HTL’s portfolio, including human recombinant collagen, further strengthening HTL’s capabilities in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.

The Next Chapter: Advancing HA innovations and Polynucleotides Production

Looking ahead, HTL remains committed to pushing back the boundaries of biotechnology.

HTL is also driving innovation in functionalized hyaluronic acids, designed to meet unmet needs in drug delivery, regenerative medicine and bioprinting. These advances place HTL at the forefront of next-generation biopolymers, expanding its role as a key player in medical breakthroughs.

HTL Biotechnology continues on its path and remains true to its mission: to be the world leader in pharmaceutical biopolymers, driving innovation and transformation while being a trusted partner to the medical and pharmaceutical industries worldwide.

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