InnoCell Tech is a startup spin off from Taiwan’s ITRI, a globally recognized research institute, dedicated to providing innovative solutions for immune cell manufacturing. By its proprietary biomimetic multi-dendritic magnetic bead (iKNOBeads) technology, the company addresses current challenges in immunotherapy, such as limited immune cell activation efficiency and high costs. InnoCell Tech is also strategically positioning itself for the development of next-generation allogeneic immune cell therapies. The goal is to replace the current feeder cell approach and establish a high-efficiency, high-safety platform for the production of allogeneic cells.
The production method of immune cells is a key technology affecting the quality, quantity, and functionality of cell products. Our team has successfully developed the world’s only micron-sized magnetic beads with controllable multi-dendritic morphology, known as iKNOBeads. These beads have uniform size and unique biomimetic multi-dendritic morphology, providing excellent reproducibility and reactivity. They can be applied to the activation of different immune cells through the variation of surface modification substances. Based on the combination of biomimetic magnetic beads and our self-developed optimized processes, clinical sample validation has shown that our production efficiency for CAR-T and NK cells surpasses international competitors. Our technology can produce high-quality, large quantities of immune cells with strong cytotoxic capabilities for autologous and allogeneic therapies.
Allogeneic cell therapy is a global research hotspot, with NK cell development receiving the most attention. The mass production of NK cells is a critical technology. Currently, the mainstream global technology uses genetically modified cancer cell lines (feeder cells) to activate NK cells, which, although effective for mass production, is costly and poses safety issues. Our team has successfully developed unique activation beads and processes, verified for the expansion of NK cells from peripheral blood and cord blood, with excellent production efficiency and cell product quality. This breakthrough overcomes existing technical bottlenecks and has considerable international competitiveness. Additionally, there are no GMP-grade NK cell activation beads on the currently market. Our team has completed the construction of a facility and equipment compliant with GMP standards and integrated a quality system to complete the trial production of GMP-grade beads. We have also obtained registration approval from the Ministry of Health and Welfare (QMS 1850), positioning us to potentially enter the market as the world’s first GMP-grade NK cell activation bead product, creating significant brand value.
- Immune Cell Activation Platform
-iKNOBeads for αβT (or CAR-T), PBNK, CBNK Cell Activation
-Cell Culture Reagent Kit
-Cell Manufacturing Process Design - Customized Services
-Various Beads Synthesis
-Functionalization
-Cell Analysis - Devices & Kits
-iSEC column for EVs isolation
-iREX bioreactor
-NA purification
- Market Needs:
Immune cell therapy offers a powerful approach in the fight against cancer. However, its therapeutic efficacy often depends on the manufacturing technology of the immune cells, which directly impacts the quality and effectiveness of the cell products. Magnetic beads play a crucial role as a key raw material in immune cell production. Their mechanism involves the modification of antibodies on beads which are capable of activating immune signals. Currently, autologous immune cell therapy faces challenges such as prolonged processing times and higher production costs. For next-generation allogeneic immune cell therapy, mass production technology is a critical factor. However, most allogeneic immune cells are currently cultured using feeder cells, with both cost and safety still requiring improvement. - What InnoCell Tech Can Do:
InnoCell Tech is proud to introduce a groundbreaking material for immune cell manufacturing that redefines industry standards: iKNOBeads. Inspired by nature, iKNOBeads are created using a unique synthesis method to form bionic-structured magnetic beads. These beads feature a controllable surface protrusion structure. Compared to spherical products currently on the market, iKNOBeads offer over 50% more surface area, allowing for more than a 500% increase in the modification of stimulatory ligands. Furthermore, by adjusting the activation materials, these beads can be tailored for use with a wide range of immune cell populations. This innovative platform ensures safety and cost-effectiveness, enabling the production of high-quality and high-quantity immune cells for both autologous and allogeneic immunotherapy without the need for feeder cells. - Market size:
By 2030, the estimated revenue for the startup (market share 8-10%) from the major global markets (United States, China, Japan, and Europe) in immune cell activation beads is approximately 100 million USD. - Target Client and future growth:
The company’s development plan is divided into three stages. The first stage focuses on academic and research institutions, promoting RUO-grade iKNOBeads to enhance product visibility and build brand recognition. The second stage targets medical institutions and cell manufacturing company (Cell therapy, CDMOs), promoting GMP-grade iKNOBeads. In the third stage, the company will support clinical trials to successfully bring cell products to clinical market.