NeuroScientific locks in deal to scale-up stem cell production
Queensland-based Q-Gen Cell Therapeutics will take over the manufacturing of StemSmart's specific mesenchymal stromal stem cells (MSC) from Royal Perth Hospital's Cell and Tissue Centre.
NeuroScientific says the technology transfer will allow it to establish MSC manufacturing for its StemSmart infusions for further clinical trials and pursue commercial opportunities.
The MSC technology was developed as a last-line infusion treatment for critically ill patients, including those experiencing severe immune complications from bone marrow transplants, kidney and lung transplant rejection and inflammatory Crohn's disease.
'This relationship will allow the company to scale the manufacturing of its StemSmart technology.'
NeuroScientific Biopharmaceuticals chief executive officer Nathan Smith
NeuroScientific acquired the StemSmart technology in late June via its $4.1 million acquisition of unlisted Perth-based stem cell company Isopogen. Isopogen had previously signed a manufacturing contract with QIMR Berghofer, under which Q-Gen undertook manufacturing process development to scale up clinical-grade production of the StemSmart platform.
Q-Gen, located in QIMR in Brisbane, has more than 25 years of experience in cell therapy manufacturing for industry. The laboratory specialises in manufacturing cellular immunotherapies for national and international clinical trials from 13 cleanrooms dedicated to cell manufacturing and quality control.
NeuroScientific Biopharmaceuticals chief executive officer Nathan Smith said: 'We are very pleased to be partnering with Q-Gen given their extensive experience in manufacturing, process development and GMP production of biologic products for clinical trials. This relationship will allow the company to scale the manufacturing of its StemSmart technology to address substantial market opportunities.'
StemSmart offers a step up from traditional MSC manufacturing in that the cells are grown in a special medium, becoming activated in the process. The platform technology was developed at Royal Perth Hospital and manufactured using the hospital's processes.
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