129: Revolutionizing Cell Therapy Manufacturing: Reducing Costs to Reach More Patients with Jason Foster - Part 1
02/18/25 • 22 min
One of the most urgent challenges in modern medicine is making cell and gene therapies widely accessible. These therapies, while groundbreaking in their safety and efficacy, often fall short when it comes to reaching patients. The reasons are manifold—high manufacturing costs, logistical complexities, and inefficiencies in the production pipeline.
We're joined by Jason Foster, CEO and Executive Director of Ori Biotech, a company that's revolutionizing cell and gene therapy manufacturing through automation and innovative approaches.
Jason sheds light on the technical bottlenecks that limit patient access to life-saving therapies and discusses how an integrated, holistic view of the development chain could make a significant difference. From the complexities of centralized manufacturing and the interconnectedness of the supply chain, to specific technical solutions Ori Biotech has developed, we explore the multi-faceted issues and potential solutions in making these advanced therapies more reachable.
Here are three key takeaways from our conversation:
- Holistic Development Chain: Jason emphasizes the importance of integrating all stakeholders in the development chain, ensuring everyone understands what happens before and what needs to happen next to improve the overall process.
- Technical Bottlenecks & Solutions: We delved into various technical bottlenecks, including centralized manufacturing and logistical complexities. Jason highlighted how Ori Biotech is addressing these issues through automation and reducing manual labor, which can cut manufacturing costs by 50%.
- Impact on Accessibility: It's alarming that only 3-5% of patients who need CAR-T therapies have access to them. Jason's mission with Ori Biotech is to transform this narrative by enabling widespread access to these life-saving therapies through innovative manufacturing solutions.
As cell and gene therapies stand poised to revolutionize cancer and rare disease treatment, the focus must shift toward overcoming manufacturing constraints. By integrating automation and aiming for decentralized models, companies like Ori Biotech offer a glimpse into a future where these revolutionary treatments are accessible to all who need them.
Fascinated by Cell Therapy? Hear from top experts in these two episodes!
- Episodes 11 and 12: From Lab to Patient: Steve Oh’s Guide to Mastering Cell Therapy Process Development
- Episodes 21 and 22: Unleashing Effective QbD Strategies to Master Cell Therapy with Shin Kawamata
Connect with Jason Foster
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncfoster
Oribiotech: https://oribiotech.com
Wondering how to develop cell and gene therapies with peace of mind? Schedule your free assessment to propel your success: https://bruehlmann-consulting.com/assessment
Develop biotherapeutics better, faster, at a fraction of the cost with our 1:1 Strategy Call. Book your call at https://stan.store/SmartBiotech/p/book-a-11-call-with-me-j4vhuo6t
One of the most urgent challenges in modern medicine is making cell and gene therapies widely accessible. These therapies, while groundbreaking in their safety and efficacy, often fall short when it comes to reaching patients. The reasons are manifold—high manufacturing costs, logistical complexities, and inefficiencies in the production pipeline.
We're joined by Jason Foster, CEO and Executive Director of Ori Biotech, a company that's revolutionizing cell and gene therapy manufacturing through automation and innovative approaches.
Jason sheds light on the technical bottlenecks that limit patient access to life-saving therapies and discusses how an integrated, holistic view of the development chain could make a significant difference. From the complexities of centralized manufacturing and the interconnectedness of the supply chain, to specific technical solutions Ori Biotech has developed, we explore the multi-faceted issues and potential solutions in making these advanced therapies more reachable.
Here are three key takeaways from our conversation:
- Holistic Development Chain: Jason emphasizes the importance of integrating all stakeholders in the development chain, ensuring everyone understands what happens before and what needs to happen next to improve the overall process.
- Technical Bottlenecks & Solutions: We delved into various technical bottlenecks, including centralized manufacturing and logistical complexities. Jason highlighted how Ori Biotech is addressing these issues through automation and reducing manual labor, which can cut manufacturing costs by 50%.
- Impact on Accessibility: It's alarming that only 3-5% of patients who need CAR-T therapies have access to them. Jason's mission with Ori Biotech is to transform this narrative by enabling widespread access to these life-saving therapies through innovative manufacturing solutions.
As cell and gene therapies stand poised to revolutionize cancer and rare disease treatment, the focus must shift toward overcoming manufacturing constraints. By integrating automation and aiming for decentralized models, companies like Ori Biotech offer a glimpse into a future where these revolutionary treatments are accessible to all who need them.
Fascinated by Cell Therapy? Hear from top experts in these two episodes!
- Episodes 11 and 12: From Lab to Patient: Steve Oh’s Guide to Mastering Cell Therapy Process Development
- Episodes 21 and 22: Unleashing Effective QbD Strategies to Master Cell Therapy with Shin Kawamata
Connect with Jason Foster
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncfoster
Oribiotech: https://oribiotech.com
Wondering how to develop cell and gene therapies with peace of mind? Schedule your free assessment to propel your success: https://bruehlmann-consulting.com/assessment
Develop biotherapeutics better, faster, at a fraction of the cost with our 1:1 Strategy Call. Book your call at https://stan.store/SmartBiotech/p/book-a-11-call-with-me-j4vhuo6t
Previous Episode
128: The 7 Hidden Innovation Habits That Top Biotech Scientists Use Daily - Part 2
The world of bioprocess development in biotechnology is evolving at an unprecedented pace, driven by the quest for breakthrough innovations. While new technologies play a significant role, what truly sets successful innovators apart are fundamental habits that foster an environment ripe for groundbreaking discoveries.
In today's discussion, we'll delve into three essential habits that, when combined with the four habits previously discussed, can redefine your approach to bioprocess development. Additionally, we'll wrap up with a bonus tip that has the potential to revolutionize your career.
- Challenge the Status Quo - In any scientific endeavor, particularly in biotech, a common pitfall is accepting established processes as the best or only methods. The fifth habit to cultivate is the continuous challenging of the status quo. When was the last time you scrutinized your standard operating procedures and wondered why they are the way they are?
- Embrace Continuous Learning - Innovation in biotech is characterized by rapid advancements, and staying ahead demands continuous learning. According to a 2023 EDX survey, nearly half of today's workplace skills will be obsolete by 2025, primarily due to AI advancements. Hence, the sixth habit is to never stop learning.
- Harness the Power of Passion - At the core of every great innovation is passion. The seventh habit revolves around the deep sense of purpose that drives scientific pursuits. Beyond the routine aspects of bioprocess development, what truly fuels your ambition?
Finally, a game-changing career strategy known as Strategic Cross-Pollination Networking can significantly enhance your innovative capabilities. This goes beyond traditional networking, focusing on building connections across various domains to foster innovative solutions.
Innovation in bioprocess development is not about daily eureka moments but about the consistent application of these habits. Small, persistent efforts can cumulatively lead to transformative results in this rapidly evolving field.
If you found these insights valuable, share them with your colleagues. Ready to fast-track your product and technology development? As a strategic advisor to biotech leaders, we can help you eliminate costly delays and optimize your path to market.
Wondering how to develop cell and gene therapies with peace of mind? Schedule your free assessment to propel your success: https://bruehlmann-consulting.com/assessment
Develop biotherapeutics better, faster, at a fraction of the cost with our 1:1 Strategy Call. Book your call at https://stan.store/SmartBiotech/p/book-a-11-call-with-me-j4vhuo6t
Next Episode
130: Revolutionizing Cell Therapy Manufacturing: Reducing Costs to Reach More Patients with Jason Foster - Part 2
The intricacies of tech transfer and the challenges of scaling manufacturing processes are often underestimated in the biotechnology industry. Understanding these complexities is crucial for translating innovative scientific breakthroughs into commercially viable products.
In the second part of the conversation with Jason Foster, CEO of Ori Biotech, host David Brühlmann explores the complexities of cell therapy manufacturing. Their discussion highlights key challenges, including tech transfer, scale-out strategies, and the crucial role of commercial strategy alongside scientific excellence.
Jason also revealed a groundbreaking approach in the cell therapy space. He detailed how Ori's IRO® platform can process multiple patient doses simultaneously, enabling treatment for 30 patients in parallel within just 1,000 square feet of clean room space. This innovative method drastically reduces clean room requirements by about 95% and facility sizes by approximately 50%, significantly cutting costs associated with building and operating large-scale facilities.
As Jason emphasized, this shift not only accelerates access to groundbreaking therapies but also provides a sustainable model for scaling cell therapy production.
Key Points to Remember:
- Integrated Approach: Scientists should look beyond their specialized areas and understand the requirements of subsequent bioprocessing stages to maximize patient impact.
- Technological Evolution: Advancing distributed manufacturing and enhancing in-line analytics are essential steps to revolutionize the biotech landscape.
- Commercial Viability: Prioritizing commercial feasibility alongside safety and efficacy in preclinical development can prevent costly late-stage setbacks.
This episode of the Smart Biotech Scientist underscores the complexities and transformative potential of cell therapy manufacturing. As the industry continues to innovate, integrating commercial viability, flexibility, and advanced manufacturing solutions will be critical. By breaking down silos and fostering collaboration, we can accelerate the development of life-saving therapies—ensuring they reach patients faster and more efficiently.
Connect with Jason Foster
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncfoster
Oribiotech: https://oribiotech.com
Wondering how to develop cell and gene therapies with peace of mind? Schedule your free assessment to propel your success: https://bruehlmann-consulting.com/assessment
Develop biotherapeutics better, faster, at a fraction of the cost with our 1:1 Strategy Call. Book your call at https://stan.store/SmartBiotech/p/book-a-11-call-with-me-j4vhuo6t
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