Cryoport, Inc will be providing its cryogenic logistics services to support ProMab Biotechnologies' new chimeric-antigen receptors (CARs), and specifically CAR-redirected T-cells (CAR-T).

ProMab is generating CAR-T cells for use in research and preclinical studies, and as a clinical tool, with development and manufacturing activities in the U.S. and China. ProMab will employ Cryoport's cryogenic logistics solutions for the movement of biologic materials throughout China. ProMab has also expressed interest in leveraging Cryoport's expertise for market expansion in Europe, Canada, and Israel.

CAR-T gene therapy is a promising field for immune-therapeutic alternatives for the treatment of cancers. There are a growing number of companies making significant investments in immunotherapy research in China, including developing CAR-T cells. An example is the recent partnership of Kite Pharma and Fosun Pharmaceutical Co. to commercialize Kite's cancer drugs in China.

"Cryoport is well-versed in international best practices for transporting cryogenically preserved material, including experience in managing Chinese regulations. This combination of specialized cryogenic capabilities and knowledge will help accelerate the cold chain logistics essential to our programs," said John Wu, chief executive officer at ProMab Biotechnologies, Inc. "Our CAR-T cell models will be modular in both design and availability, individually tailored per the conditions of the customer contract. We are excited to launch this new undertaking and are confident that Cryoport's cold chain logistics solutions will assist us in fulfilling our clients' needs and help us reach our internal growth objectives."   

Jerrell Shelton, chief executive officer of Cryoport, said, "Cryoport has supported ProMab Biotechnologies' antibody reagent business since 2012 and we are proud to have the opportunity to expand our relationship with ProMab as it extends its product and service offerings to include CAR T-cell therapy engineering. Our proven cryogenic logistics solutions for life sciences companies will address the complex requirements ProMab faces as it transports valuable, temperature-sensitive CAR T-cell materials to and within China. In addition to having the experience necessary for the successful delivery of ProMab's products, Cryoport's operating center in Singapore provides added assurance for ProMab as it builds out its CAR-T manufacturing in mainland China."