VION Biosciences, a company specializing in life science reagents, has acquired Echelon Biosciences, a key supplier of lipid-based materials. This acquisition is the second under VION Biosciences LLC, the roll-up platform from Iron Path Capital led by Mark Thornton.
Echelon, based in Salt Lake City, is known for its expertise in lipid synthesis and lipid nanoparticles, crucial for mRNA-based therapies like vaccines and gene therapies. This acquisition strengthens VION’s position in drug discovery and manufacturing, expanding its portfolio and customer access to specialized technologies.
Building on VION’s 2023 Aldon acquisition, Echelon will enhance VION’s growth with its high-quality products, strong customer relationships, and expertise in lipidomics. This move aligns with VION’s strategy to support the development of advanced therapeutics and diagnostics, bolstering both domestic and global expansion.
Bert V. Israelsen, former Echelon President, expressed enthusiasm about the merger, noting the potential to amplify their impact. Mark Thornton, CEO of VION, emphasized that the acquisition will enhance VION’s ability to support customers in mRNA and gene-based therapeutics, positioning VION as a leader in the life science industry.
Echelon will operate as a VION subsidiary, continuing to serve its customers with the added support of VION’s resources and leadership. The existing Echelon team will remain in place, with plans to integrate additional leadership and resources through 2024 and early 2025.