Manufacturing Intelligence for Bioprocessing

On this episode, host Chris Adkins speaks with Gerry Farrell, a seasoned expert with over two decades of experience in the CDMO space and current executive advisor at Kymanox. Their discussion explores three key areas of the evolving bioprocessing landscape: 

1. The Evolution from Antibodies to Gene Therapy. How bioprocessing has grown increasingly complex from the relatively straightforward days of monoclonal antibody manufacturing to today's gene therapy challenges. Gerry highlights the critical importance of analytical development for early-stage companies and why having the right methods—not necessarily more methods—is crucial for success. 

2. Economic Realities and CDMO Dynamics. Gerry offers perspectives on the current economic environment facing biotech, including investor sentiment and funding challenges. The discussion unpacks the paradox of some CDMOs expanding capacity while others close facilities, and explores the strategic considerations driving companies toward either in-house manufacturing or outsourcing. 

3. Manufacturing Technologies and Future Trends. The episode delves into the ongoing debate between single-use and stainless steel manufacturing systems, with insights into why large-scale stainless steel facilities continue to dominate commercial antibody production. Gerry shares thoughts on emerging technologies, the potential impact of AI and machine learning on bioprocessing, and how sponsor companies can better leverage CDMO expertise to navigate these evolving landscapes. 

Resources and Links:

• Learn more about Kymanox: kymanox.com
• Connect with Kymanox on LinkedIn: Kymanox LinkedIn

About Kymanox:

Kymanox has proven, collaborative, end-to-end solutions that help bring life science products to the market – and keep them there. We are a global professional services organization that supports comprehensive drug development with integrated science, engineering, compliance (e.g., QA/RA), and technical project management.  Our work across small and large molecules, medical devices, and combination products affords us a wholly unique advantage. With our diverse team of experts, Kymanox helps clients navigate commercialization challenges that arise throughout a product’s life cycle – from early development to post-market – with optimized safety, quality, efficacy, and accessibility. We strive to advance life science innovation through insightful solutions and collaboration…because patients deserve better. Kymanox was founded in 2004 and is headquartered in Morrisville, North Carolina USA. Kymanox is backed by WestView Capital Partners, a Boston-based growth equity firm. For more information, visit https://www.kymanox.com/.

Life Science Solutions is edited and produced by Walk West.