"Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL), has launched India’s only vertically integrated, purpose-designed cell & gene therapy (CGT) infrastructure & viral vector production facility at Genome Valley - expanding its expertise from vaccine innovation to leading-edge regenerative and personalised therapies that promise hope for millions.
This facility ushers in a new era of gene and cell therapies to tackle scientific challenges such as targeted gene expression, immune system modulation, and long-term cell survival— The work will span from boosting immune responses against cancer to ensuring that therapeutic proteins are safely accepted in patients with genetic diseases like haemophilia.
The 50,000-square-foot dedicated state-of-the-art CGT facility represents the next milestone in BBIL’s long-standing mission to deliver targeted, life-saving treatments that address unmet clinical needs globally by concentrating on critical conditions such as haematological malignancies and inherited blood disorders.
Dr Krishna Ella, executive chairman, Bharat Biotech said, “Gene and cell therapies represent some of the most intricate, scientifically advanced treatments available today, involving sophisticated processes that require expertise in precise genetic manipulation and specialized manufacturing capabilities. With our extensive experience and proven excellence in viral vaccine manufacturing is uniquely positioned to master these complexities and produce human-grade vectors at the scale and consistency needed for clinical trials, thus advancing the global fight against rare and complex diseases.”
Dr Raches Ella, chief development officer, Bharat Biotech, spearheading this CGT initiative, said “Our CGT facility is designed to produce high-titer viral vectors (AAV, Lentivirus, Adenovirus), which are essential for cell and gene therapy applications - the crucial material for anti-cancer and genetic disorders and robust clinical development abilities for QC releases. Additionally, it has capabilities to manufacture multiple platform products for various disease indications, including blood cancers, solid organ cancers, and genetic disorders.”
Prof Krishanu Saha, University of Wisconsin, Madison, said: “Innovations in bio-manufacturing for potentially curative cell and gene therapies originate worldwide. It’s thrilling to witness the expertise and commitment to developing and scaling novel ideas in India, particularly at Bharat Biotech. My lab has initiated a pioneering collaboration with Bharat Biotech to develop next-generation CAR (chimeric antigen receptor) cell therapies using AI. Ultimately, genuine innovations in both product design and scaling will enhance patient care globally.”
“The new CGT facility aligns with BBIL’s broader vision of expanding beyond traditional vaccines into personalized medicine. Leveraging our proven expertise in forging strategic global partnerships, this initiative will enable the rapid translation of advanced scientific discoveries—from potent therapeutic vectors to in vivo CAR (chimeric antigen receptor) generation—into real-world solutions,” adds Dr. Ella.
“Oncology & rare diseases treatment therapies are our key focus areas. This the facility will support a wide array of advanced therapies, including CD19 CAR T cell therapy for blood cancers and gene therapy. Leveraging this deep expertise, Bharat Biotech is not only bridging the gap between scientific innovation and mass affordability but also reaffirming its enduring commitment to democratizing healthcare for the nation and beyond, said Dr Raches."