Manufacturing Partnership With Life Biosciences' Jerry McLaughlin and Forge Biologics' John Maslowski
Dec 9, 2024
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Jerry McLaughlin, CEO of Life Biosciences, and John Maslowski, newly appointed CEO of Forge Biologics, delve into groundbreaking topics in biotech. They discuss advancements in partial epigenetic reprogramming therapies and their collaboration on clinical trials. The conversation also highlights strategic growth and leadership changes at Forge after its acquisition. Insights into the thriving biotech environment in Columbus are shared, emphasizing the importance of trust and communication in successful partnerships within the sector.
Life Biosciences aims to lead with ER100, a promising therapy for optic neuropathies, targeting clinical trials by mid-2025.
The partnership with Forge Biologics is built on thorough CDMO selection and shared values to advance innovative therapies efficiently.
Open communication and a shared organizational culture between Life Biosciences and Forge foster collaborative problem-solving and enhance project outcomes.
Deep dives
Advancements in Epigenetic Reprogramming
Life Biosciences is on track to be the first company to enter the clinic with a partial epigenetic reprogramming therapy, known as ER100, which targets optic neuropathies. With an IND filing planned for mid-2025, the company has made significant strides from earlier data in mouse models to promising results in a non-human primate study. The therapy demonstrated the ability to restore visual function and preserve retinal ganglion cells, showcasing potential efficacy in treating conditions like primary open-angle glaucoma. This transition represents a critical milestone for Life Biosciences as they prepare for larger clinical studies and aim to bring their innovative treatment to the market.
Strategic Partnership with Forge Biologics
Life Biosciences and Forge Biologics have established a vital partnership to leverage Forge's manufacturing capabilities in the gene therapy space. Life Biosciences identified Forge as a suitable contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) after a careful vetting process that began with 10 potential candidates. Important factors included the technical expertise of Forge's team, facility capabilities, and alignment of values between both companies. Ultimately, this partnership allows Life Biosciences to focus on advancing its therapies while relying on Forge’s established expertise for efficient clinical and commercial manufacturing.
The Growth of Forge Biologics
Under the leadership of its new President and CEO, John Maslowski, Forge Biologics is rapidly expanding its operations and enhancing its position in the cell and gene therapy market. The company aims to transition into late-stage production and engage in more commercial discussions while continuing to support innovative technologies like those developed by Life Biosciences. Forge's infrastructure has advanced significantly, now featuring 20 operational suites to efficiently manage various projects, demonstrating its growth from initial startup status. This evolution is crucial as Forge seeks not just to cater to rare disease treatments but also to expand into broader therapeutic markets.
Emphasis on Collaboration and Partnership
The relationship between Life Biosciences and Forge Biologics is characterized by open communication and collaborative problem-solving, which are vital in navigating the complexities of gene therapy development. Weekly calls and regular project meetings ensure that both teams are aligned and actively engaged in discussions about challenges and solutions. This partnership model emphasizes treating each other as integrated team members rather than mere vendors, fostering a culture of transparency and shared goals. Such an approach ultimately enhances the quality and efficiency of the development process, reinforcing the idea that both organizations are united in their mission to improve patient outcomes.
Cultural Fit and Shared Vision
A shared organizational culture and vision play a crucial role in the successful collaboration between Life Biosciences and Forge Biologics. By participating in events and meetings, both teams cultivate a deeper understanding of each other's operations, fostering a sense of unity and shared objectives. Life Biosciences prioritizes a learning-oriented culture, which complements Forge’s inclusive environment where scientific inquiry and innovation are encouraged. This alignment enables both teams to tackle challenges collaboratively, utilizing their combined expertise to advance their respective missions in the biopharmaceutical sector.
On this week's episode of the Business of Biotech, Jerry McLaughlin, CEO and President at Life Biosciences returns for a visit, and he brought a friend in John Maslowski, newly-appointed CEO at Forge Biologics. We revisit progress at Life Biosciences, followed by a deep look into the gears that make the company's contract development and manufacturing relationship with Forge Biologics go. From CDMO selection to contracting and execution, the episode is packed with actionable insight into building a foundation for collaborative success in advanced biologic therapy development.
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