DNA Ligases Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (T7 DNA, T4 DNA, and Others), By Application (Genomics & Genetic Engineering, Drug Discovery & Research, and Others), By End-user (Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companies, Academic & Research Institutes, and Others) and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032

The global DNA ligases market size was valued at USD 350.7 million in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 378.2 million in 2025 to USD 692.7 million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period. North America dominated the DNA ligases market with a market share of 51.58% in 2024.

DNA ligases are enzymes that catalyze the formation of phosphodiester bonds between DNA fragments, and joining them together. They are crucial in DNA repair, replication, and recombination processes. Industrially, these are widely used in molecular biology for applications such as DNA cloning, next-generation sequencing library preparation, and gene synthesis.

The DNA ligases market is experiencing significant growth due to several key factors. Advancements in molecular biology and biotechnology research, particularly in genetic engineering, synthetic biology, and genomics, are driving demand for these enzymes. Additionally, the increasing focus on gene therapy and personalized medicine, coupled with rising cases of genetic disorders, is fueling market expansion. Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., Takara Bio Inc, and New England Biolabs are some of the key players operating in the market with a wide range of portfolios.

MARKET DYNAMICS

MARKET DRIVERS:

Advancements in Gene Editing Technologies to Drive Use of DNA Ligases

Advancements in gene editing technologies, particularly CRISPR-Cas9, are driving growth in the DNA ligase market. The increasing demand for precise gene editing tools has led to a surge in the use of DNA ligase, an enzyme which is crucial for repairing DNA strands during gene manipulation processes. This enzyme is essential in molecular biology and genetic engineering for joining DNA fragments, making it a key component in the development of advanced therapeutic approaches. CRISPR-based therapies continue to gain momentum, with applications in oncology, genetic disorders, and autoimmune diseases, as the demand for these enzymes is expected to rise, contributing to the growth of the market.

Additionally, increasing clinical trials for cellular and gene therapies increases the demand for these enzymes. For instance, in September 2024, KSQ Therapeutics received the U.S. FDA clearance to start a Phase 1/2 clinical trial for its CRISPR-Cas9 engineered Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocyte (TIL) therapeutic candidate, KSQ-004EX, which targets advanced solid tumors. This increase in the use of gene editing tools can in turn surge the demand for these enzymes in the near future.

MARKET RESTRAINTS:

Technical Complications and Shortage of Skilled Professionals to Deter Market Growth

The application of these enzymes in biotechnology and genetic engineering presents both innovative opportunities and significant challenges. A major concern is the occurrence of off-target effects, where enzymes inadvertently modify non-target genomic sites, potentially causing harm and raising safety issues. This can lead to regulatory obstacles, and discouraging investment in these technologies.

• For instance, an article published in Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology in January 2024, CRISPR-Cas9, a powerful gene editing tool, faces limitations due to off-target effects, which restrict its therapeutic potential.

Additionally, challenges include designing precise delivery systems, scaling enzyme production while maintaining quality, and addressing a shortage of skilled professionals, all of which collectively hinder the DNA ligase market growth.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES:

Strategic Initiatives by Market Players to Offer New Market Opportunities

Players in the DNA ligases market are implementing strategic initiatives to capitalize on emerging opportunities. These strategies include product innovation, where companies focus on developing high-efficiency ligase enzymes tailored for specific applications such as gene editing and synthetic biology. Additionally, expansion into emerging markets is a key strategy, with companies targeting regions such as the Asia Pacific, where biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors are rapidly growing. Furthermore, Strategic collaborations such as partnerships between companies and academic institutions, mergers and acquisitions are being implemented to expand product offerings and strengthen market presence.

• For instance, in September 2021, Fortis Life Sciences, LLC., acquired Empirical Bioscience, Inc. By this acquisition, the company entered into genomic technologies and expanded their recombinant protein manufacturing capabilities. Empirical specializes in developing and manufacturing enzymes including DNA ligases, buffers, master mixes, and molecular biology reagents.

MARKET CHALLENGES:

• High Cost of Enzymes

The DNA ligases market growth faces several challenges that affect its growth and adoption. One significant challenge is the high cost of enzymes, particularly high-efficiency variants, which can be expensive, and limits their accessibility for small-scale research institutions and developing countries. This cost barrier issue restricts the widespread adoption of advanced genetic engineering techniques, creating a potential challenge in the market.

• Regulatory Challenges

Regulatory challenges pose another obstacle. Strict regulations regarding the use of genetic engineering tools, can slow down the approval process for new products and applications, affecting market expansion.

DNA LIGASES MARKET TRENDS:

Shifting Focus on Cell and Gene Therapies Results in New Market Trends

The integration of DNA ligases in personalized medicine is witnessing significant growth, driven by advancements in gene editing technologies and the increasing demand for tailored therapies. Particularly T4 DNA ligase, are crucial for gene editing and cloning processes, which are fundamental to gene therapy development. Strategic collaborations and innovations in enzyme development are key trends in both markets, with companies focusing on high-efficiency ligase enzymes for specific applications.

Moreover, increasing regulatory approval of cell and gene therapies are further driving the trend in the market.

• For instance, in March 2025, Neurotech Pharmaceuticals, received FDA approval for Encelto (revakinagene taroretcel-lwey) for the treatment of adults with idiopathic macular telangiectasia type 2. It is an allogeneic encapsulated cell-based gene therapy which requires gene editing tools/cloning techniques.

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SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS

By Type

T4 DNA Segment Dominates Market Due to Its Efficiency in DNA Ligation

Based on type, the market is segmented into T4 DNA, T7 DNA, and others.

The T4 DNA segment holds the largest share of the market. This segment growth is primarily driven by its versatility and efficiency in DNA ligation, making it essential for cloning and other genetic engineering applications. Additionally, advancements in gene editing technologies, such as CRISPR-Cas9, further boost demand for T4 DNA ligase due to its role in joining DNA fragments.

T7 DNA segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR over the projected period. The growing interest in cloning & synthetic biology in biopharmaceuticals sector is expected to drive their demand across research and industrial sectors. Moreover, increasing strategic initiatives among key players are expected to fuel the segment growth.

The others segment which include thermostable ligases is driven by their specific applications in PCR and molecular diagnostics, where temperature stability is essential. Additionally, new product launches are expected to fuel the segment growth.

• For instance, In November 2023, New England Biolabs (NEB) launched the NEBNext UltraExpress DNA and RNA Library Prep Kits. These kits are designed for next-generation sequencing (NGS) on the Illumina platform and include these enzymes to streamline library preparation workflows.

By Application

Genomics & Genetic Engineering Segment Dominates Due to Rapid Advancement in the Field

By application, the market is classified as genomics & genetic engineering, drug discovery & research, and others.

Globally, the DNA ligases market share is dominated by the genomics and genetic engineering segment. The genomics and genetic engineering segment is driven by advancements in gene editing technologies including CRISPR-Cas9, which requires DNA ligases for repairing DNA strands during gene manipulation processes. The increasing demand for precise genetic modifications and the integration of synthetic biology tools further fuels this segment's growth.

On the other hand, the drug discovery and research segment is anticipated to grow at a higher CAGR as compared to the other end users, during the forecast period. In drug discovery and research, DNA ligases are essential for developing recombinant DNA technologies and efficient cloning methods. Thus, the rising investment in personalized medicine and collaborative initiatives also contributes to the growth of this segment.

• For instance, In January 2023, Danaher and the Innovative Genomics Institute (IGI) launched a collaborative research center aimed at developing CRISPR-based gene therapies for a wide array of diseases. Such collaboration between academic institutes and industries for drug discovery is expected to fuel the segment growth over projected years.

The others segment including diagnostics is anticipated to experience significant growth. The increasing adoption of molecular diagnostic techniques such as PCR and NGS is driving the demand for these enzymes. This trend is expected to continue as advancements in diagnostic technologies enhance the role of these enzymes in healthcare.

By End-user

Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companies Dominates due to Extensive Gene Therapy Initiatives

Based on end-user, the market is classified into pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, academic & research institutes, and others.

The pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies accounted for the largest share of the market. The increasing demand for efficient DNA manipulation tools in drug development and gene therapy and reliance on DNA ligases for cloning, gene synthesis, and next-generation sequencing for developing new therapeutic agents and vaccines.

In academic & research institutes, the segmental growth is fueled by ongoing research in molecular biology, genetic engineering, and synthetic biology. Additionally, the rising focus on personalized medicine and gene editing technologies such as CRISPR further boosts demand in this segment.

The others segment including CROs, diagnostic laboratories and hospitals, the demand is driven by the need for precise diagnostic tools and therapeutic applications. DNA ligases play a critical role in molecular diagnostics, enabling the detection of genetic disorders and infectious diseases. These factors coupled with increasing prevalence of genetic diseases are expected to fuel the segment growth.

• For instance, an article published in April 2023 in The Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine reported that in Estonia, the prevalence of chromosomal abnormalities and genetic diseases was reported at 92.6 per 10,000 births. This genetic disease prevalence and growing awareness among the population about DNA sequencing and molecular diagnostics are expected to fuel the segment growth.

DNA LIGASES MARKET REGIONAL OUTLOOK

North America

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The North America market was valued at USD 180.9 million in 2024 and is projected to expand at a substantial CAGR during the forecast period. The market growth in the region is driven by increasing collaborations & acquisitions, and futuristic product launches in the region.

The U.S. dominated in North America. The country’s focus is on adopting new technologies, such as gene editing tools such as CRISPR-Cas9 for the treatment of diseases which rely on DNA ligases for precise genetic modifications. Furthermore, key player’s strategic initiatives are expected to fuel the country’s market growth.

• For instance, in September 2024, Agilent Technologies Inc. acquired BIOVECTRA, a Canada-based contract development and manufacturing organization that specializes in biologics, highly potent active pharmaceutical ingredients, and other molecules for targeted therapeutics. Such acquisitions will help the company to expand its production capabilities.

Europe

Europe held the second largest share of the market in 2024 driven by several key factors. The region's well-established research infrastructure and strong academic institutions foster a robust demand for DNA ligases, particularly T4 DNA ligase, in genetic research and biotechnology applications. Additionally, government support for biotech innovations and a focus on personalized medicine contribute to the steady growth of the market.

Germany and the U.K. are at the forefront of research and development, supported by strong regulatory frameworks and investments in genomics. This region is expected to experience steady growth.

Asia Pacific

In the Asia Pacific region, the market is projected to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period owing to increasing strategic initiatives by key players to expand in this region to offer advanced manufacturing facilities for genetic engineering. Additionally, increasing demand for precision & personalized medicine is expected to boost the demand for DNA ligases used in gene synthesis and editing processes.

• For instance, in May 2023, Aurisco, a Chinese pharmaceutical company, and CDMO partnered with Cytiva, a global life sciences company, to establish its inaugural Oligo FlexFactory platform for commercial manufacturing of DNA fragments. Such initiatives boost the use of DNA ligases.

Latin America

The Latin America market is poised for substantial growth, driven by rising government initiatives and strategic partnerships with international companies. Additionally, growth in genetic testing is expected to fuel the market growth in the region.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa market is expanding, fueled by rapidly adopting genomics and precision medicine, with significant investments in biotechnology. Additionally, genome programs in GCC countries are propelling the use of DNA sequencing and associated enzymes.

• For instance, As of November 2024, over 63,000 genomes have been sequenced under Saudi Genome Program, identifying 7,500 pathogenic variants unique to the Arab population. This has significantly improved diagnostic accuracy and reduced diagnostic timelines for rare disorders.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., Takara Bio Inc, and New England BiolabsHold Significant Shares due to Strong Product Portfolio

The global DNA ligases market features a semi-consolidated competitive landscape, comprising a mix of large, medium, and small-sized companies.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. is a prominent leader in the market, driven by its comprehensive product offerings and robust presence across the globe. Additionally, the company’s strategic collaboration is expected to fuel the growth of the market.

• For instance, in April 2023, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. partnered with ALPCO-GeneProof to launch TaqPath Menu GeneProof PCR kits in the market. This partnership aims to strengthen molecular diagnostics of ALPCO-GeneProof with the robust customer base and supply chain of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.

Takara Bio Inc. and New England Biolabs held a significant share of the market in 2024. Their strategic growth initiatives, geographical expansions, and new product launches are anticipated to enhance their market share over the forecast period. Additionally, factors such as advancements in molecular biology techniques and increasing demand for high-quality enzymes in research institutions will support their growth

Meanwhile, Merck KGaA and Promega Corporation are bolstering their market positions through significant investments in research and development, strategic partnerships, and innovative product expansions.

LIST OF KEY DNA LIGASES COMPANIES PROFILED:

• Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.(U.S.)


• New England Biolabs (U.S.)


• Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc (U.S.)


• Fortis Life Sciences, LLC. (U.S.)


• Agilent Technologies, Inc. (U.S.)


• Promega Corporation (U.S.)


• BioCat GmbH (Germany)


• Takara Bio Inc. (Japan)


• Danaher Corporation (U.S.)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

• January 2023: Agilent Technologies, Inc. invested approximately USD 725.0 million to double the manufacturing capacity of therapeutic nucleic acids in Colorado.


• October 2022: Fortis Life Sciences opened an office in Seoul, South Korea. This expands its supply chain in South Korea in the field of life science, diagnostics.


• March 2022: Fortis Life Sciences, LLC. partnered with AccuGenomics to expand the genomics portfolio. This collaboration offers an exclusive channel partner for AccuGenomics in the U.S., with co-exclusive rights in Europe.


• April 2021: Promega Corporation announced an opening of Kornberg Center, a newly constructed research and development facility on its Fitchburg, WI campus. This supports core product and technology development in genetic identity, clinical diagnostic, life science research, cellular and molecular biology, and scientific applications and training.


• January 2021: Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. announced the partnership with Seegene, Inc. which has enhanced the product offering of the company for diagnostic testing of infectious disease in the market.

REPORT COVERAGE

The DNA ligases market research report provides an in-depth analysis of the industry. It focuses on market segments, such as type, application, end-user, and region. Besides, it offers the market forecast in relation to the current market dynamics, the impact of COVID-19, and the latest DNA ligases market trends. Additionally, the report consists of the global market share by various segments and the factors driving the market growth. The report also provides the competitive landscape of the market.

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