SelectScience
Join Free
Accelerating Science
NewsDrug Discovery & Development

Xcell Biosciences and Thermo Fisher Scientific collaborate to advance the next generation of cell therapies

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Strategic collaboration to innovate Treg and TIL therapies, streamline cell therapy workflows, and enhance manufacturing efficiency

26 Jun 2025

Industry news

Xcell Biosciences has announced a strategic collaboration with Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc to advance research in regulatory T cells (Tregs) and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). While significant progress has been made in the cell therapy space leveraging chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR T) cells, this collaboration aims to advance Treg and TIL cell therapies that specialize in combating autoimmune and solid tumor diseases.

With solid tumors representing approximately 90 percent of adult cancers and instances of autoimmune diseases on the rise worldwide, this collaboration looks to target a crucial area for improving global health.

Leveraging the strengths of both companies, the joint research will focus on developing new methodologies to enhance the efficacy of Tregs and TILs in therapeutic applications. The collaboration also seeks to streamline workflows while improving scalability and reproducibility in cell therapy manufacturing to help make these critical treatments more accessible to patients.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Thermo Fisher Scientific on groundbreaking research opportunities. By leveraging our AVATAR™ cell therapy manufacturing platform, we aim to push the boundaries of what is possible in cell and gene therapy. This partnership will enable us to develop more effective treatments for patients in need,” said Shannon Eaker, chief technology officer at Xcell Biosciences.

“Xcellbio's interest in utilizing our Gibco™ CTS™ Detachable Dynabeads™ platform within Thermo Fisher Scientific’s modular, closed and automated cell therapy manufacturing workflow is a testament to the strength of our technologies,” said Andy Campbell, senior director of research and development at Thermo Fisher Scientific.

“In combination with our full portfolio, including the Gibco™ CTS™ DynaCellect™ Magnetic Separation System and the Gibco™ CTS™ Rotea Counterflow Centrifugation System, we are confident that this collaboration will significantly shorten and enhance the manufacturing workflow for cell therapies in this space, ultimately helping our customers make the world a healthier place,” he added.

Want the latest science news straight to your inbox? Become a SelectScience member for free today>>

Links

Thermo Fisher ScientificCompany website

Tags

Cell-Based AssaysCell-based assays are used to monitor the presence, quantity and activities of a desired cellular analyte including drug molecules or biomarkers. This can reveal information on cell health (apoptosis, cytotoxicity, viability and proliferation assays), cell metabolism, cell migration and cell signaling mechanisms. Find the best cell-based assay products, kits and equipment with our peer reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receiving pricing direct from manufacturers.Cell / Tissue CultureCell culture or tissue culture is used to study the biology of cells or tissues and to isolate cellular products in an environment which can be manipulated and well defined. Accurately control your culture environment with bioreactors or culture incubators, bind your cells to a surface or together with an extracellular matrix. Distinguish cell types with differential media or proliferate cells with certain characteristics using selective media. Enrich your media with supplements such as growth factors, sera and vitamins. Find the best cell and tissue culture products, kits and equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.BiopharmaceuticalsBiopharmaceuticals are proteins and other compounds (such as nucleic acids) produced by living organisms that have uses as therapeutics or for in vivo diagnostics. The most well known example of a biopharmaceutical product, and the first to be approved for therapeutic use, was recombinant human insulin.Cancer ResearchCancer research aims to understand the mechanisms of cancer development and progression to improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. From molecular biology to clinical trials, research spans a wide range of disciplines, including immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and drug discovery. Explore the best cancer research products in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.

Related articles