Cell and gene ecosystem gains momentum with new strategic alliance

In a strategic collaboration focused on scaling the local development and manufacturing of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs), a memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed by Viral Vector Manufacturing Facility (VVMF) and Cell Therapies.

The move comes as Australia’s clinical trials sector sees a surge in ATMP activity, particularly in Victoria, which now accounts for one in three of all such trials nationwide. Oncology, genetic disorders, and immune diseases remain the dominant therapeutic areas, backed by significant industry investment supporting more than half of the country’s ongoing clinical research.

Victoria leads the charge in early-phase trial activity in advanced therapies, with New South Wales and Queensland following suit. To date, only one Australian advanced therapy company has crossed the regulatory finish line. Orthocell’s OrthoACI is a cartilage regeneration therapy manufactured in a TGA-approved facility in Western Australia.

The newly formed partnership between VVMF and Cell Therapies aims to change that, uniting two key players to accelerate access to cutting-edge treatments – gene therapies, somatic cell therapies, and tissue-engineered products – for patients in Australia and the region.

“VVMF is proud to collaborate with Cell Therapies, Australia’s leading capability in cell therapy manufacturing,” said Stephen Thompson, CEO of VVMF. “Our complementary strengths and services reinforce Australia’s unique biomanufacturing ecosystem and showcase why Australia is a premier destination for the development and production of cell and gene therapies. Together we are committed to improving outcomes for patients, customers, and partners across Australia, the APAC region, and globally.”

Bev Menner, CEO of Cell Therapies, said “This collaboration advances efforts to secure a fully integrated onshore value chain for advanced therapies in Australia – enhancing patient access to cutting-edge treatments, reinforcing clinical trial and translational capabilities, and enabling export-readiness across the APAC region.

“Strategic investment in sovereign manufacturing capacity for cell and gene therapies and critical inputs positions Australia to compete in the global advanced therapies market.”

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