GenScript ProBio, a CDMO and specialized CAR-T therapy firm, and Curocell, entered into a strategic partnership MOU for the production of viral vectors necessary for the development of next generation CAR-T therapies.

The partnership will broaden the strategic cooperation between the two companies to encompass the entire project, including the development, production, and clinical trials of viral vectors for CAR-T therapy research and development.

Viral vectors are vehicles for drug delivery that utilize viruses to transport genetic material to the cellular interior. The demand for viral vectors is rapidly increasing due to the recent growth of the gene therapy market, which uses CAR-T therapy as its main active ingredient. However, it has been noted that a shortage of GMP facilities producing viral vectors is causing delays in the development of gene therapies, including CAR-T therapy.

GenScript ProBio Chairman Patrick Liu, said, “We are delighted to sign an MOU with Curocell, a local leader in CAR-T therapy, for the supply of viral vectors,” and said that this partnership will “deepen our close collaboration to develop CAR-T therapy, not only in Korea but on a global scale.”

Curocell CEO Gunsoo Kim said the partnership will allow the two companies to “establish a stable cooperative relationship spanning the entire process, from the developmental stage to the commercialization of CAR-T therapy.” He also stated that “Curocell plans to grow as a global leader in cancer immunotherapies through its partnership with GenScript ProBio, a company expanding its global presence in the field of gene therapy.”