What happened
Shares of Intrexon (XON +0.89%), a conglomerate that has multiple projects related to engineered biology in the works, jumped 10% in June, according to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence.
So what
The share-price jump was most likely caused by two recent developments.
First, Intrexon and Johnson Matthey announced that they signed a collaboration agreement with the goal of developing peptide-based active pharmaceutical ingredients. The deal calls for Johnson Matthey to pay Intrexon a technology access fee and to reimburse it for all research and development costs. In addition, Intrexon will receive milestone payments and a royalty on any future sales that stem from this collaboration. In exchange, Johnson Matthey will gain direct access to Intrexon's technology and expertise.
Second, Intrexon stated that it has completed its acquisition of GenVec, a clinical-stage biotech focused on gene-delivery technology.
Image source: Getty Images.
Now what
We recently learned that Intrexon's "Friendly" Aedes aegypti mosquitos received positive validation from the National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) in the Netherlands. The agency's report concluded that the mosquitoes "would pose negligible risks to human health and the environment," according to the company. That's great news for investors, as it sets the stage for Intrexon to bring this technology to Europe.
However, while Intrexon continues to make moves that lay the groundwork for future growth potential, staying on top of all the company's growth projects is no small task. Given the complexity of this investment, I plan on rooting for Intrexon's success from the sidelines.
