Astellas Pharma and YASKAWA Electric Corporation have signed a definitive agreement to establish a joint venture for the development of a cell therapy product manufacturing platform utilizing the dual-arm robot Maholo.
In addition, the joint venture will offer platform access to startups and academic institutions, fostering collaboration and innovation in the field of cell therapy.
In the pharmaceutical industry, the commercialization of cell therapy faces many challenges stemming from the complex nature of the manufacturing process, in particular, related to the accuracy and reproducibility of cell manufacturing. Furthermore, the need for a skilled workforce, coupled with the time and cost investments required for technology transfer to manufacturing facilities, presents additional hurdles.
The planned joint venture will leverage Astellas’ expertise in R&D and manufacturing for cell therapy and the dual arm robot Maholo, developed by YASKAWA’s subsidiary, Robotic Biology Institute.
The closing and establishment of the joint venture company are subject to certain closing conditions, including receipt of required regulatory approvals.
Astellas will own 60% of the joint venture, while YASKAWA will own 40%.
