ENCell said on the 5th that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Cell Therapies, a cell and gene therapy (CGT) contract development and manufacturing (CDMO) corporations in Melbourne, Australia, to expand access to CGT development and manufacturing in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.
The two companies aim to build a faster and more stable CGT development and supply system by combining their respective good manufacturing practice (GMP) manufacturing infrastructure, clinical and commercial production experience, regulatory and technical expertise, and regional networks.
Founded in 2003, Cell Therapies is a leading APAC CGT-specialized CDMO based in Melbourne, and it has advanced cell therapy manufacturing capabilities built on an independent GMP manufacturing facility within the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, a world-class cancer institute.
This collaboration will be pursued in four areas: ▲ strengthening CGT manufacturing capabilities ▲ advancing regulation and quality ▲ jointly entering the APAC market ▲ fostering talent and promoting research innovation.
The two companies will expand joint business activities to build a manufacturing system that links multiple production sites and will also work to secure supply chains that improve the stability of clinical and commercial production. They also plan to pursue sustainable manufacturing strategies and expense reduction measures together, which is expected to strengthen the competitiveness of the APAC CGT industry.
Bev Menner, CEO of Cell Therapies, said, "This collaboration is an important step in making it easier for patients in the Asia-Pacific region to access innovative CGT treatments," adding, "We will work with ENCell to enhance technology exchange and manufacturing capabilities and build a robust supply chain."
Jang Jong-uk, CEO of ENCell, said, "By combining the two companies' manufacturing capabilities, we will build a high-quality CGT production platform connecting Korea and Australia."