LIfT Biosciences, in collaboration with ScaleReady, Wilson Wolf Manufacturing, and Bio-Techne Corporation, has been awarded a $300,000 G-Rex Grant to facilitate the clinical manufacturing of its Neutrophil only Leukocyte Infusion Therapy (N-LIfT) platform. This funding will support the development of a scalable manufacturing process for LIfT's innovative cell therapy designed to combat solid tumors.
Novel Approach to Solid Tumor Treatment
N-LIfT is designed to overcome treatment resistance in solid tumors by producing Immunomodulatory Alpha Neutrophils (IMANs). According to Andrew Willis, Chief Development and Regulatory Officer at LIfT Biosciences, IMANs represent a new type of myeloid cell with enhanced neutrophil function. These cells can identify and kill solid tumors, irrespective of antigen presentation, and simultaneously recruit the patient's own immune cells to the tumor site.
G-Rex Technology for Scalable Manufacturing
The G-Rex Grant will enable LIfT Biosciences to collaborate with ScaleReady to establish a fully closed and semi-automated G-Rex manufacturing process. This process is designed to be scalable for late-stage clinical trials and potential commercialization. John Wilson, CEO of Wilson Wolf and co-inventor of G-Rex, expressed enthusiasm for applying their expertise to create an efficient G-Rex manufacturing platform, allowing LIfT Biosciences to evaluate N-LIfT's potential in penetrating the solid tumor microenvironment and stimulating the patient's endogenous immune system.
About N-LIfT and IMANs
LIfT BioSciences' N-LIfT platform utilizes exceptional stem cells (iPSC or HSC), a proprietary enhancement media, and genetic engineering to produce IMANs. These cells kill in a non-antigen specific manner and turn the tumor microenvironment against the tumor, potentially leading to a durable response and lasting immunity. The company is also exploring partnerships to develop a portfolio of engineered CAR IMAN cell therapies.
Significance of the Grant
The ScaleReady G-Rex Grant Program, a $20 million initiative, aims to advance cell and gene-modified cell therapy (CGT) development and manufacturing. Recipients gain access to support from G-Rex Grant Partners, providing expertise in cGMP manufacturing, quality and regulatory affairs, and CGT business operations. This grant will help LIfT Biosciences expedite its path to patient treatment by establishing a robust and scalable manufacturing process for its N-LIfT therapy.
