Charles River Bolsters Cell Therapy Platform with Akadeum’s T Cell Isolation Technology

Charles River Laboratories has incorporated Akadeum Life Sciences’ GMP-grade Human T Cell Leukopak Isolation Kit into its Cell Therapy Flex Program, enhancing its offerings for cell therapy development. The move aims to streamline manufacturing processes for autologous CAR-T and TCR-T therapies, addressing persistent challenges in scalability and cost.

The Cell Therapy Flex Platform, initially launched as an off-the-shelf solution, provides validated protocols and automated, closed-system processes for cell selection, expansion, electroporation, viral vector integration, washing, concentration, and fill-and-finish steps. The platform is designed to reduce risks, cut costs, and expedite development timelines for cell therapy manufacturers.

Akadeum’s kit introduces a novel approach to cell separation through its patented Microbubble technology, which uses buoyancy to isolate T cells by floating unwanted cells to the surface. The process, compatible with existing apheresis bags, requires no additional equipment or lab space, simplifying workflows while maintaining GMP compliance. The technology is touted for improving cell viability and scalability.

“Akadeum’s Microbubble technology provides an innovative solution for cell separation, utilizing gravity to isolate T cells. This method is scalable and GMP, ensuring efficiency and quicker delivery to patients,” said Kerstin Dolph, Corporate Senior Vice President, Global Manufacturing, Charles River.

“Cell therapy is transforming medicine, but the economics of manufacturing remain a major barrier. Our work with Charles River and the Flex platform allows us to tackle these challenges head-on, delivering healthier cells, faster processing times, and scalable separations that reduce complexity,” said Brandon McNaughton, CEO of Akadeum.

The collaboration reflects growing demand for efficient, cost-effective solutions in the rapidly expanding cell therapy market, as companies seek to balance innovation with scalable production.