Breakthrough G-Rex Grants Awarded to Children's National Hospital
ScaleReady, in collaboration with Wilson Wolf Manufacturing and Bio-Techne Corporation (NASDAQ: TECH), has announced the awarding of four G-Rex Grants aimed at propelling pediatric oncology research at Children's National Hospital. This collective funding, amounting to $375,000, is set to optimize and transition various cell and gene therapy initiatives into clinical settings.
Transforming CAR-T Cell Manufacturing
One of the notable recipients, Dr. Patrick Hanley, who is the Chief & Director of Cell Therapy, received a generous G-Rex Grant of $100,000. This funding will be utilized to develop a CAR-T cell manufacturing process centered around G-Rex technology, offering a more nimble, flexible, and cost-effective alternative to the existing methods that often involve complicated and expensive equipment.
Optimizing Virus Specific T Cells
Dr. Michael Keller, who serves as the CETI Director of the Translational Research Laboratory, along with Dr. Hanley, were awarded a substantial $150,000 G-Rex Grant. This funding will support a significant optimization effort for their Virus Specific T cells (VST) and Tumor Antigen Associated T cells (TAAT) manufacturing processes. The transition to the enhanced G-Rex "M" series bioreactors aims to foster functionally closed and semi-automated production, streamlining operations by reducing touchpoints during manufacturing.
Innovative Approaches to Solid Tumors
Dr. Amy Hont, an Oncologist specializing in Pediatric Hematology, has been awarded a $75,000 G-Rex Grant to advance the manufacturing of their unique ATTACK TAAT cell therapy aimed at treating several types of solid tumors. This grant will facilitate crucial developments in creating a closed system for G-Rex manufacturing.
Development of CAR-Modified TAAT Cells
In addition to Dr. Hont's work, Dr. Conrad Russell Cruz also received a $50,000 G-Rex Grant. This funding is directed toward enhancing the development and optimization of a G-Rex-centric process for the manufacture of CAR-modified TAAT cells, furthering the treatment options available for various solid tumors.
Commitment to Advancing Cell and Gene Therapies
Dr. Hanley expressed gratitude for the support that these grants signify: "This effort reflects our commitment to collaboratively move promising cell and gene therapies from the laboratory to the patients who need them the most. We are eager to continue this vital work and thankful for the backing we have received."
John Wilson, CEO of Wilson Wolf and co-inventor of the G-Rex technology, highlighted the importance of the G-Rex Grant Program in celebrating the accomplishments of pioneers in pediatric oncology. Wilson noted the challenges facing the field, stating, "It is an honor to provide G-Rex Grant funding to remarkable individuals who are making significant advancements in this critical area of medicine."
G-Rex Grant Program Overview
The ScaleReady G-Rex Grant Program has successfully surpassed $40 million in no-cost product commitments to grant recipients. This initiative is focused on accelerating the development and manufacturing landscape of cell and gene-modified therapies. Grants can reach up to $300,000 and provide recipients with access to an exclusive network of G-Rex Grant Partners who supply world-class tools, technologies, and expertise in good manufacturing practices, quality, and regulatory affairs, as well as overall CGT operational support.
LEAN Cell & Gene Event Series
In a further commitment to enhancing the field, ScaleReady recently launched a complementary program designed to maximize the presence of efficient and scalable CGT manufacturing. Partnering with Hanson Wade, they initiated the LEAN Cell & Gene™ event series, inviting all CGT stakeholders to participate. The series focuses on teaching methodologies for waste reduction, operational stabilization, quality improvement, and adopting a LEAN perspective in cell and gene therapy development and manufacturing.
About ScaleReady
ScaleReady is at the forefront of cell and gene-modified cell therapy (CGT) innovation, offering a unique G-Rex-centered manufacturing platform that enables efficient, economical, and scalable development of CGT products. This innovative approach is already utilized by over 800 organizations globally, contributing to the production of drug products for around half of all CGT clinical trials along with five commercially approved CGT therapies.
About Wilson Wolf Manufacturing
Wilson Wolf is committed to simplifying the processes involved in CGT research and manufacturing. Their advanced G-Rex technology is widely recognized and employed in various CGT applications, from research to commercial-scale production, striving to bring hope to cancer patients.
About Bio-Techne Corporation
Bio-Techne Corporation, listed on NASDAQ as TECH, is a prominent global entity providing cutting-edge tools and bioactive reagents essential for research and clinical diagnostics. The company collaborates with Wilson Wolf to create media and cytokines tailored to G-Rex Bioreactors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the G-Rex Grant Program?
The G-Rex Grant Program by ScaleReady provides funding and resources to support innovative cell and gene therapy projects, aiming to facilitate advancements within the field.
How much funding can grant recipients receive?
Grant recipients can receive individual awards of up to $300,000, which can help finance their valuable research initiatives.
Which institutions benefited from the G-Rex Grants?
The recent G-Rex Grants were awarded to leading investigators at Children's National Hospital, who are exploring promising therapies in pediatric oncology.
What is the significance of the LEAN Cell & Gene program?
This program aims to enhance CGT manufacturing by providing insights into waste reduction and operational efficiencies through a series of educational events.
Who is behind the G-Rex technology?
The G-Rex technology was co-invented by John Wilson, CEO of Wilson Wolf, who is actively involved in promoting its benefits for the future of cancer treatment.
