| Different subpopulation of DCs can be obtained by
separating and cultivating their precursors (for example monocytes) under
different conditions. The most common subpopulation is obtained by using a
combination of various cytokines, including interleukin 4 (IL-4) and
granulocyte-monocyte colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) In order to supply
researchers and clinicians using DC with necessary tools of the trade,
BruCells is developing preparations of these reagents suitable for the
subsequent application of the DC to patients, i.e manufactured in accordance
with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and fulfilling state of the art
specifications.
Cytokines are a class of proteins, which are secreted by living cells.
They have several functions, such as promoting cellular growth, activate
cells or destroy target cells such as cancer cells. A subgroup called
Interleukins (IL) function as messengers between leukocytes. Cytokines have
many potential applications. The demand is expected to grow in the future
with the development of cellular therapies.
In the case of cellular immunotherapy of cancer, cytokines are mainly
used for the maturation of DCs. For the moment, the market consists mainly
of the many research and development groups which are working on therapeutic
vaccines and which need to obtain reliable sources of clinical grade
cytokines.
The production and marketing of clinical grade (GMP) human recombinant
cytokines by BruCells present several advantages for the company:
| |
|
| - |
these products enter the production of DC vaccines and
the availability of GMP materials at |
| |
competitive prices is a competitive
advantage |
| - |
the marketing of such products may help to establish
earlier a presence in the market |
| - |
the contribution margin may help to fund the
development of vaccines |
Starting in September, 2003, clinical grade recombinant human Interleukin-4
can be supplied in vials containing 50 micrograms of lyophilized IL4.
Starting in August, 2004, clinical grade recombinant human
Granulocyte-Monocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor can be supplied in vials
containing 50 micrograms of lyophilized GM-CSF.
Research grade cytokines for experimental use in vitro can be provided
subject to availability : IL-1b, IL-4, IL-6 and others. Please enquire.
|
