The value of collaboration
As cell therapy developers transition from research-scale to cGMP manufacturing, industry collaborations can provide valuable resources and support to navigate obstacles and help accelerate speed-to-market. Learn how collaboration between Thermo Fisher Scientific and ArsenalBio helped support accelerated therapeutic development timelines.
Figure 1. Collaboration timeline starting from the initial conversation between ArsenalBio and Thermo Fisher Scientific, to proof of concept, prototype device being delivered by the product team, and final delivery of commercial devices. Used with permission from ArsenalBio.
ArsenalBio is a biotechnology company specializing in programmable cell therapies for solid tumors, with their primary product being an autologous integrated circuit T cell (ICT) for chemotherapy-resistant ovarian cancer. When ArsenalBio sought to accelerate the development of their ICT therapy manufacturing process for clinical scale, they chose to collaborate with a specialized team of scientists and process-development engineers at Thermo Fisher Scientific.
By leveraging product-specific capability expertise and early-access agreements to novel, state-of-the-art technologies, the mutually beneficial collaboration enabled ArsenalBio to co-develop integrated processes and optimize their manufacturing workflows—while providing Thermo Fisher Scientific invaluable insight and feedback that informed product design and development. Frequent communication and on-site visits facilitated evaluation and process development, ultimately culminating in ArsenalBio receiving the final, commercial devices only a year after initial proof-of-concept discussions.
As the manufacturing process has progressed, Thermo Fisher Scientific continues to work alongside with and support ArsenalBio by troubleshooting technical issues, optimizing processes for automation and scale-up, engaging in regular discussions around latest raw material and/or device availability, and providing product-specific regulatory support.
“I can’t understate how nice it was to have the relationship with the TFS Innovation team. From conversing online during the height of the pandemic through to having in-person visits with hands-on training, development, and candid conversations—all of which helped to build a long-term partnership.” – Jenessa Smith, PhD; Associate Director of Process Development at ArsenalBio
Collaborate with us
Thermo Fisher Scientific has launched the Thermo Fisher Scientific Cell Therapy Collaboration Program designed to provide support to customers on their path to clinical and commercial success. To get started on your path to commercialization, request information today.