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PRESS RELEASE
3 June 2024
Press Release
Media Contacts:
IB Communications
Likarda and Cold Chain Technologies Announce Exclusive Partnership to Revolutionize Cell Therapy Material Transportation and Storage
Partnership aims to develop and commercialize the transformative technology, and improve access to cell therapies
Kansas City, MO and Franklin, MA, Jun 3, 2024 – Likarda, Inc., leading biotech company specializing in the development of enabling technologies for the delivery of both cell therapies and large molecule biologics, and Cold Chain Technologies, LLC (CCT), a global provider of thermal packaging solutions for the transportation of temperature-sensitive products for the life sciences industry, are pleased to announce a new exclusive licensing agreement to improve the difficult logistics needed for cell therapy manufacturing. This partnership will combine Likarda's patented hydrogel technology with CCT’s expertise in advanced cold chain products and digital solutions to enhance the transportation and storage of biological materials and therapies.
Cell therapy manufacturing relies on carefully transporting these fragile materials from patients or donors to the site of manufacturing, then move the living therapies back to patients. Utilizing Likarda’s proprietary Core-Shell Spherification® (CSS®) technology will enable CCT to package these cells and other biological materials on dry ice, avoiding the need to transport them at extremely low temperatures, typically in liquid nitrogen (-196°C). Maintaining -196°C is logistically challenging due to the risk of mechanical damage from ice crystals and the need for specialized handling and equipment, driving up costs and limiting patient access to cell therapy to only those sites with the necessary facilities. Likarda's proprietary CSS hydrogels form crosslinked polymer matrices that protect encapsulated cells and other biological materials during transportation.
Key benefits include:
ice crystal prevention: the CSS matrices prevent ice crystal formation, which can damage cells during freezing
mechanical protection: CSS hydrogels shield biological materials from adverse mechanical stresses during handling and transportation
versatile applications: suitable for a wide range of temperatures, from cold chain conditions (2°C to 8°C) to dry ice storage (-20°C to -80°C) and even lower temperatures
enhanced stability: combining Likarda's hydrogels with CCT’s packaging solutions ensures biological materials remain stable and effective during transit
“This collaboration sets new standards for the storage and transportation of cell therapies, improving the safety and reliability of these sensitive materials,” said Stella Vnook, Likarda’s CEO. “Leveraging Likarda's technology and CCT’s global reach will expand both companies' market presence and impact.”
“We are very excited to partner with Likarda to develop and commercialize this transformative technology, which can revolutionize the way cryogenic shipments are done currently and can pave the way for a more efficient, cost-effective and scalable model to bring these lifesaving therapies to patients”, said Ranjeet Banerjee, CEO of Cold Chain Technologies.
About Likarda
Likarda is enabling the delivery of both cell therapies and large molecule biologics, with a platform technology that will expand the potential of these life-changing medicines to more people with chronic or life-threatening diseases. At the heart of Likarda’s innovation is Core-Shell Spherification® (CSS®), a customizable polymer delivery system that protects and locks therapeutics in place where they are needed, such as the tumor microenvironment or site of organ degeneration. For more insights, visit Likarda.com.
About Cold Chain Technologies
Cold Chain Technologies (CCT) is a leading global provider of reusable, sustainable, thermal packaging and digital solutions for the shipment of temperature-sensitive material, principally serving the life science industry. With more than 50 years of proven product assurance in transit, CCT has built a reputation as the life science industry’s most innovative and dependable provider. For more information, please visit: coldchaintech.com.