GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and Plasticell, a biotechnology company using combinatorial cell-culture technologies for optimization of cell and gene-therapy manufacturing, have signed a pact to optimize induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) differentiation protocols.

In the collaboration, Plasticell will use its stem-cell screening technology, CombiCult, to screen combinations of molecules provided by GSK to identify and optimize iPSC differentiation protocols. Plasticell’s proprietary technology is built to allow the simultaneous screening of multiple iPSC lines and thereby facilitate the development of a protocol that is applicable across lines, according to the companies. 

Plasticell’s hematopoietic cell therapy portfolio includes the expansion of hematopoietic stem cells, currently in late preclnical development for cell and gene-therapy applications. In addition, the company is working on the manufacture of red blood cells, platelets, and immune cells from iPSC.

Plasticell and GSK have worked together on various stem-cell research projects for more than a decade. Plasticell is co-located at the Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst, an emerging cell-therapy hub on the site of GSK’s Medicines Research Center.

Source: Plasticell