CD19 CAR CRISPR T cell workflow used to demonstrate shortened timelines and improved yield

MaxCyte and Ori Biotech have entered into a strategic collaboration to improve the efficiency, scalability and reproducibility of autologous cell therapy manufacturing, the companies announced today.

By combining MaxCyte’s ExPERT platform, which is widely used for scalable electroporation and gene editing, with Ori’s automated and modular IRO manufacturing system, the partners aim to offer therapy developers a flexible, integrated solution to deliver clinically relevant quantities of modified T cells more rapidly and cost-effectively.

The integration will initially focus on evaluating how Ori’s IRO platform can optimise the expansion of MaxCyte-engineered T cells, using CD19 CAR expression via CRISPR knock-in as a test system. The aim is to streamline the post-electroporation phase and overcome persistent bottlenecks in autologous workflows.

MaxCyte’s Flow Electroporation technology, currently supporting more than 19 active clinical and commercial programs, is recognised for its ability to transfect a wide range of cells at scale, while maintaining high viability. Ori’s IRO system complements this with customisable mixing, automated fluid handling, and OriConnect – a tubeless sterile connection feature designed to support closed-system manufacturing.

Maher Masoud, president and CEO of MaxCyte, said: “We are excited to collaborate with the team at Ori Biotech, combining our respective strengths and innovative technologies to significantly enhance manufacturing processes. This partnership underscores our commitment to enabling therapy developers to more effectively address the evolving demands of cell therapy manufacturing, ultimately accelerating the availability of transformative treatments for patients.”

Jason Foster, CEO of Ori Biotech, added: “Our partnership with MaxCyte is another example of Ori’s dedication to providing flexible and scalable solutions that address critical challenges in cell and gene therapy manufacturing. By integrating modular, best-of-breed technologies, we’re raising the standard of manufacturing by enhancing commercial viability. Ultimately, this collaboration helps bring cell therapies to patients faster, more reliably, and at greater scale.”

The companies say the collaboration reflects their shared mission to deliver best-in-class technologies that drive commercial readiness and broaden access to advanced therapies.