- NIIMBL announced funding for projects in bioprocess tech and training innovation, including intensified viral vector production and creation of “surrogate” antibody drug conjugates.
- ChromaTan and Batavia Biosciences are collaborating to integrate a novel downstream technology for adeno-associated viral vector production, aiming to reduce costs and increase yields.
- Enquyst Technologies, Lonza, MilliporeSigma, and University of Massachusetts Lowell are developing isoelectric point purification for continuous monoclonal antibody production.
- Rutgers University, Agilent, Endress + Hauser Optical Analysis, EnZene Biosciences, MilliporeSigma, and Pfizer are collaborating on developing process analytical technology workflows for monitoring biological drug critical quality attributes.
- Pfizer, Carnegie Mellon University, and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute are working on creating “surrogate ADCs” to assess the diversity and processing behaviors of antibody drug conjugates without toxicity.
Revolutionizing Bioprocess Tech and Training with NIIMBL Funding
In a recent funding round, the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL) is making waves by supporting cutting-edge projects in bioprocess technology and training initiatives. The focus is on advancing processes for monoclonal antibodies, viral vectors, and cell therapy, as well as enhancing the measurement of critical quality attributes. This funding round is set to bring significant value to the biopharmaceutical industry through innovation and collaboration.
Intensified Viral Vector Production
One of the standout projects selected for support by NIIMBL involves ChromaTan and Batavia Biosciences partnering to integrate ChromaTan’s BioRMB platform into Batavia’s adeno-associated viral vector (AAV) production system. This innovative technology promises to revolutionize the purification process by enabling column-free moving bed continuous chromatography. The benefits are clear – increased processing throughput, higher recoveries during purification, and a substantial reduction in resin volume and cost of goods. This collaboration aims to improve AAV production yields, recovery rates, and environmental impact, showcasing the potential for significant advancements in biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
Advancing Downstream Processing Techniques
In addition to the ChromaTan-Batavia collaboration, NIIMBL’s funding round supports various downstream projects aimed at advancing bioprocess technologies. Enquyst Technologies, along with partners Lonza, MilliporeSigma, and the University of Massachusetts Lowell, are working on developing isoelectric point purification (IPP) for continuous monoclonal antibody (mAb) production processes. This technique holds promise for enhancing the efficiency and quality of mAb production, showcasing the diverse range of innovations supported by NIIMBL.
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Empowering Workforce Skills through Training Initiatives
NIIMBL’s commitment to fostering innovation extends beyond technology projects to include training initiatives that aim to equip the biopharmaceutical workforce with essential skills. Santa Clara University, in collaboration with Biocom California, Genentech, and Merck & Co, will be developing a data analytics program for engineers. This initiative underscores the importance of data-driven decision-making in the biomanufacturing industry, ensuring that professionals are equipped with the necessary tools to drive innovation and efficiency.
Similarly, Texas A&M University, in partnership with Janssen, Pfizer, and the University of California, Los Angeles, is working on a course designed to support and retain neurodivergent talent for the biomanufacturing industry. By focusing on diversity and inclusion, this initiative highlights NIIMBL’s dedication to creating a workforce that is representative of diverse perspectives and talents, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration within the biopharmaceutical sector.
NIIMBL’s latest funding round is set to catalyze significant advancements in bioprocess technology and training, propelling the biopharmaceutical industry towards a future of innovation and excellence. Through strategic collaborations and forward-thinking initiatives, NIIMBL is paving the way for a more efficient, sustainable, and skilled workforce that is poised to meet the evolving demands of the biopharmaceutical landscape.
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