BioCentriq
Overview
BioCentriq is a state-of-the-art cell and gene therapy Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) based in Newark, New Jersey. Established in 2019, it specializes in the development and manufacturing of autologous and allogeneic cell therapies. In 2022, BioCentriq was acquired by GC Holdings Inc., a South Korean healthcare giant, for $73 million. The company was initially founded by Haro Hartounian and has steadily grown to become a pivotal player in the biotechnology industry, specifically in the realm of cell therapy.
Recent Developments
- October 2024: BioCentriq entered a strategic partnership with Premier Research to accelerate the pre-IND timelines and clinical translation of novel cell therapies through an agreement established on January 8, 2024. This collaboration allows leveraging Premier Research’s product development expertise and BioCentriq’s specialization in cell therapy manufacturing.
- September 2024: Syed T. Husain was appointed as the new CEO of BioCentriq. His expertise spans CDMO business expansion, ensuring BioCentriq remains at the forefront of manufacturing innovation in cell therapies.
- February 2024: The company announced a capacity update at the OPCU event, showcasing its advancements in CAR-T manufacturing through its innovative LEAP platform, which aims to increase the affordability of cell therapy.
- January 2024: BioCentriq announced the successful completion of a $29.2 million Series A funding round. The raised capital will be used for enhancing company facilities, investing in advanced technologies, and expanding the expert team to meet the growing demand for scalable cell therapy solutions.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2019 |
| Headquarters | Newark, New Jersey, USA |
| Founders | Haro Hartounian |
| Key Investors | GC Holdings Inc. |
| Industry | Biotechnology, specifically CDMO for Cell and Gene Therapy |
| Number of Employees | Approximately 66 |
| Recent Acquisition | Acquired by GC Holdings for $73 million in 2022 |
Early History
BioCentriq was launched in 2019 as part of the New Jersey Innovation Institute’s division in partnership with the New Jersey Institute of Technology. Its foundation was laid to address the growing demand for advanced therapies, focusing on developing manufacturing capabilities for cell and gene therapies. Starting with strategic investments and key partnerships, BioCentriq rapidly developed state-of-the-art facilities and expanded its technical team. By 2022, the company had positioned itself as a leader within the CDMO landscape, specializing in clinical-grade production of therapeutic cells.
Company Profile and Achievements
BioCentriq has achieved several significant milestones since its founding. Under Haro Hartounian’s leadership, it created a robust GMP manufacturing framework that caters to the technical demands of cell and gene therapies. Notable achievements include:
- Successful Collaborations: Integrated partnerships with entities like Terumo BCT to enhance its iPSC lines for therapeutic efficacy.
- Innovation in Manufacturing: Launched the LEAP™ Advanced Therapy Platform, significantly reducing times from process development to clinical production.
- Recognition by McKinsey: Hosts the only McKinsey Innovation & Learning Center exploring Industry 4.0 applications in life sciences.
- Market Expansion: Opened new GMP facilities in South Brunswick, New Jersey. BioCentriq continually supports its clients from tech transfer through GMP production, offering comprehensive solutions for cell therapy manufacturing.
Current Operations and Market Position
Currently, BioCentriq operates at the leading edge of cell therapy manufacturing, providing services that accelerate the transition from concept to clinic, particularly in CAR-T and other cell-based therapies. Its LEAP™ platform has positioned BioCentriq as a vital partner in the cell and gene therapy industry, driving advancements in therapeutic delivery. The company’s market strategy emphasizes quality, cutting-edge technology, and the ability to meet stringent regulatory demands, which sustains its competitive edge in an evolving market focused on biopharma solutions.
Conclusion
BioCentriq plays a vital role in the biotechnology sector as a leading CDMO. It supports groundbreaking therapeutic innovations, particularly in cell and gene therapies, which continue to evolve and challenge conventional treatment paradigms. With its strategic expansion, technological advancements, and commitment to quality, BioCentriq is well-equipped to contribute significantly to the accessibility and effectiveness of regenerative medicine. Looking forward, the company's recent funding and partnerships ensure a trajectory poised for growth and impactful innovation in personalized medicine and chronic disease treatment.