Using a closure analysis method to reduce CGT contamination risks
Many cell therapy manufacturing processes use open unit manipulations. As a result, they are at risk of potential contam...
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Closure analysis of a mock autologous cell therapy process
In its current state, cell therapy manufacturing comprises several open and manual operations which increase the risk of contamination. Members of BioPhorum’s Cell & Gene Therapy Commercialization workstream have generated a ‘mock’ process detailing the manufacture of a generic autologous CAR-T product operated through a series of process steps combining some open and some closed system elements. The mock process has undergone an end-to-end closure analysis to identify those operations that pose the highest contamination risks, and to provide suggested mitigation solutions to minimize such risks. Suggestions include options that are currently available, as well as potential future ‘desired state’ options. This paper details the full process and summarizes potential risks and possible mitigations. The primary aim of this paper is to demonstrate systematic application of a closure analysis method on an ex vivo gene therapy (also known as gene-modified cell therapy) process so that organizations can apply similar analyses to their own processes. The secondary aim is to propose process closure solutions that companies could implement in their own operations.
The challenges of using RNA as a therapeutic or a gene editing tool
While previously only found in academic, pre-clinical and early clinical stages, RNA technologies, including mRNA therapeutics, have emerged as a promising drug modality due to their essential biological role in protein expression and their potential versatility in manufacturing. RNA is in the global spotlight and is being
prioritized due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, to maintain the current momentum as industry and agencies return to a ‘normal’ cycle of development for a wider range of drugs and therapies, experts in this field need to come together to identify and address challenges unique to the RNA modality. BioPhorum has started this by bringing together industry leaders to identify RNA-focused manufacturing challenges, and is working toward solutions to common challenges and improving current processes. The purpose of this article is to introduce this critical area and to show the unique RNA challenges, not only limited to mRNA therapeutics already identified by the cross-industry team, but also to include how these challenges could potentially negatively impact companies and the RNA industry. It sets out what the team is hoping to achieve via this collaboration, both in terms of outputs and benefits to the industry.
Standardized methodology to support particle investigations and classification in biopharmaceutical parenteral products
This paper provides a framework to support investigations related to atypical or frequently occurring particles observed during VI or related to field complaints – which require detailed and systematic assessment of risk to the quality of the batch. The proposal for a standardized risk investigation methodology outlined in this paper may support such risk assessments, where the total risk related to foreign particles is assessed by considering a variety of risk factors (type, frequency, etc.) and applying a failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) tool to calculate a total risk-based score.
IT can be simpleUsing analogies to facilitate collaboration on the IT challenges of supplying cell and gene therapies
Cell and gene therapies (CGTs) are medicines with enormous potential to create personalized therapeutics for patients with diseases that were once untreatable. However with these opportunities come challenges. One is how IT and CGT teams understand each other’s needs and challenges – only once this knowledge gap is bridged will CGTs be produced and administered commercially. This paper uses analogies to help specialists from CGT and IT to discuss and understand the key issues in commercializing CGTs and important aspects of IT systems and infrastructure. The analogies also reveal those differences in a relatable way that stimulates creativity and joint problem solving, which are critical in this fledgling but fast-growing industry.
A science based approach to qualifying replenishment working cell banks, an industry view
This paper introduces scientific and technical perspectives and recommendations from industry peers including cell banking technical experts and regulatory representatives from across the globe, representing over 15 pharmaceutical companies. The paper proposes a risk-based scientific approach to qualifying replenishment working cell banks (WCBs) when they are manufactured with, and without, changes. A consistent technical approach to the qualification of replenishment WCBs by incorporating risk-based analysis enables appropriate planning, nimble operations and de-risks product supply for patients by preventing possible delays when replenishing WCBs.
Electronic data exchange: a baseline survey summary
A benchmark survey which sets out to establish the baseline for electronic data exchange across participating members, to understand: How suppliers and biomanufacturers were working with EDE for raw materials across their inbound supply chain, whether they were using the ASTM standard and, if so, its application and value to their company and to provide Insights for improving EDE across the sector. The results cover utilization, prioritization, ASTM E3077-17 standard utilization and the benefits and challenges in implementing it, EDE maturity, benefits and challenges for EDE in the inbound supply chain, EDE accelerator and other conclusions.
Guidelines for materials introduction supporting drug substance delivery
A standard process map providing industry with a set of simple tools containing a structured approach for materials introduction across the supply chain. This paper summarizes a stepwise process that can be used as a guideline for introducing a material to support new drug substance manufacture and can be used in conjunction with detailed, company-specific NPI procedures. In addition it is relevant best practice for cell and gene therapy manufacturers.
RNA workstream charter – team set up
Member only document highlighting the scope and initial desired focus of the RNA workstream within BioPhorum C>.
Architecture blueprint for smart maintenance
A BioPhorum members only draft document intended to support maintenance and IT teams install/upgrade systems to be ready for smart maintenance in validated environment
CMO Integration: Briefing document for working with partners/suppliers
BioPhorum member only briefing document for working with suppliers on CMO integration, outlining the problem statement and benefits.