Lessons in Automation with Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center's Christopher Choi, Ph.D.
Jan 2, 2025
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Christopher Choi, Ph.D., is an expert in cell and gene therapy manufacturing and the Director of the GMP Facility at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. In this discussion, he reveals plans for a new Cell and Gene Therapy Hub set to open in 2025, aimed at advancing cancer treatment. Choi emphasizes the critical role of automation in manufacturing and shares valuable advice for emerging biotech firms on quality management, project coordination, and the importance of a quality by design approach to improve market readiness.
The Roswell Park Cell and Gene Therapy Hub, opening in 2025, aims to facilitate the transition from research to clinical application for cancer therapies.
Automation and digital technologies are essential for overcoming manufacturing challenges in cell therapies, ensuring safety and consistency for unique patient cells.
Deep dives
Overview of the Cell and Gene Therapy Hub
The Roswell Park Cell and Gene Therapy Hub in Buffalo, New York, is set to open in early 2025 and aims to become a significant player in cancer treatment. It is designed to bridge the gap known as the 'valley of death,' where preclinical research often fails to progress to clinical trials due to financial and operational challenges. This hub will provide the necessary infrastructure to translate scientific ideas into clinical applications, emphasizing the need for cell therapies to combat cancer more effectively. With a focus on collaboration, the hub aims to support both internal researchers and those from other institutions, positioning itself as a vital resource in cancer research and treatment.
Focus on Solid Tumors
The primary focus of the hub will be on developing therapies for solid tumors, which account for 90% of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. Unlike liquid tumors, which already have existing therapies, solid tumors represent a significant area in need of innovative treatments. Researchers at Roswell Park are committed to exploring both solid and liquid tumor therapies, using a diverse research team to tackle various cancer types. This strategic focus positions the hub to address a critical need in oncology and expand treatment options for patients.
Role of Automation in Manufacturing
Automation and digital technologies are expected to play an increasingly vital role in cell and gene therapy manufacturing by 2025. The complexity of manufacturing cellular products, given that each patient's cells are unique, poses challenges that require tailored automation solutions to ensure consistency and safety. While current advancements are promising, achieving a fully automated process where a patient's cells can be seamlessly transformed into a therapeutic product still requires significant innovation. The ongoing development of specialized equipment from various companies will be crucial in overcoming these manufacturing challenges and improving patient outcomes.
Cell & Gene: The Podcast Host Erin Harris talks to Christopher Choi, Ph.D., MBA, SVP Industry Partnership, Director of GMP and Cell Manufacturing Facility, and Associate Professor of Oncology at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center about the Center's Buffalo, NY-based cell and gene therapy hub slated to open in early 2025. They cover the increasingly important role of automation and digital technologies in CGT manufacturing. Choi also offers his advice to new and emerging CGT biotechs on how to correctly tackle manufacturing as they begin their product development journey.
Email Erin at erin.harris@cellandgene.com with topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes.