The iBioLaunch platform was also used to produce a candidate vaccine against H1N1 influenza, for which a human Phase I trial was successfully completed in March, 2012. The alliance between the two companies aligns with GE's healthymagination initiative, which focuses on reducing cost, increasing access and improving quality in healthcare.

"We're delighted to form this new global alliance with iBio, who share our vision of bringing affordable and flexible manufacturing capabilities to the producers of these vital, lifesaving medicines. We look forward to continuing our work with the talented teams at iBio and CMB to explore how this innovative technology could become a commercial reality," said Olivier Loeillot General Manager of Enterprise Solutions at GE Healthcare Life Sciences.

Mr Robert B Kay, chairman and CEO of iBio, added, "We are delighted to be extending our alliance with GE Healthcare. We look forward to working together on the development of a flexible and cost-effective plant-based manufacturing platform that has the potential to assist in the global effort to increase access to biotherapeutics and help reduce the incidence of vaccine preventable diseases."

Commenting on the alliance, Dr Vidadi Yusibov, executive director of CMB, said, "We are pleased to continue and extend our relationship with iBio and GE Healthcare. The collective experience and skills of the teams at CMB, iBio and GE Healthcare combined with CMB's cutting edge pilot facilities in Delaware gives us a great opportunity to accelerate the implementation of this technology."