New alliance focuses on translation, process development and GMP-readiness for gene-modified cell therapy platform

eXmoor Pharma and Signadori Bio have announced a strategic collaboration to accelerate the development of a gene-modified monocyte-based cell therapy platform targeting solid tumours.

The partnership will support translation from discovery through to GMP-compliant manufacturing, with the goal of progressing Signadori’s lead candidate to first-in-human trials.

Under the agreement, eXmoor will deliver an integrated technology transfer and development programme at its Cell & Gene Therapy Centre in Bristol, UK. This includes process development, CMC strategy and GMP-readiness. The company will also embed an interim Head of CMC within Signadori Bio’s leadership team to oversee programme execution and alignment.

Signadori Bio, a Paris-based Sofinnova Partners-backed spin-out, is developing a cell therapy platform based on gene-modified monocytes, aiming to overcome the challenges of the solid tumour microenvironment. The science originates from research at the Gustave Roussy Institute, a leading cancer centre.

The companies will operate under a shared decision-making framework, aligning scientific, technical and commercial strategies with Signadori’s investment milestones. The programme is expected to evolve into full GMP process development.

Angela Osborne, CEO of eXmoor Pharma, said: “Signadori’s approach to targeting solid tumours with gene-modified monocytes is both innovative and grounded in translational science. We’re pleased to support their development journey toward clinical impact.”

Matthieu Coutet, CEO of Signadori Bio and Partner at Sofinnova Partners, said the partnership represents a critical step toward the clinic. “eXmoor brings deep experience in early-stage process development and GMP translation. Their involvement, along with Evelien Stalmeijer’s appointment as interim head of CMC, strengthens our ability to scale rapidly and responsibly.”

Signadori Bio is currently in the preclinical stage. The timing of first-in-human studies has not been disclosed.