Experts in the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industry gathered in 2024 to discuss pressing issues and advancements affecting the sector. The discussions, facilitated by the editors of Pharmaceutical Technology® and Pharmaceutical Technology® Europe, spanned a broad range of topics, including excipient grade choice, data management, and innovations in cell and gene therapies.
In a highlight from the series, Felicity Thomas of the Pharmaceutical Technology Group hosted a segment on the critical importance of selecting the correct excipient grade for drug products. This topic was addressed in a video interview featuring a panel of experts from IPEC Americas, underlining the significant implications that excipient selections have on drug safety and efficacy.
Another significant discussion revolved around the burgeoning need for high-quality data in drug development. The session focused on how advanced analytical technologies are transforming the management and evaluation of vast datasets, thus impacting the drug discovery and development process in the biopharmaceutical sector.
Emerging technologies came under the spotlight in discussions regarding analytical methodologies. The use of mass photometry, machine learning, and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance analytical capabilities for biologic modalities was explored, revealing how these innovations can keep pace with the rapid evolution of drug formulations and delivery systems.
Cellares, a company pioneering in cell and gene therapy, showcased its automated production platform. CEO Fabian Gerlinghaus articulated how a closed-production system, designed for efficiency in both space and operations, can lead to substantial cost reductions and improved scalability for therapeutic applications.
The regulatory landscape was illuminated through insights from Steffen Thirstrup, chief medical officer of the European Medicines Agency (EMA). He spoke on vital issues such as manufacturing supply chain challenges, drug shortages, and the interplay between commercial incentives and patient welfare.
Insights were also shared regarding upcoming conferences, including AAPS PharmSci 360 2024, with Dr. Vivek Gupta from St. John’s University discussing the formulation of inhalation dosage forms. Similarly, Michelle Logan, vice president of the drug product division at Thermo Fisher Scientific, highlighted advancements aimed at improving efficiency in the oral solid dosage (OSD) market.
Further discussions at the CPHI Milan 2024 event included Zaim Gashi, area sales manager of Steriline, who indicated significant developments in aseptic processing equipment designed to meet evolving regulatory standards.
Erica Schlesinger, vice president of technical development at Serán Bioscience, provided a preview of her upcoming AAPS PharmSci 360 presentation focused on high-dose subcutaneous delivery of protein therapeutics, illustrating the ongoing evolution in drug delivery systems.
The breadth of these discussions indicates a dynamic landscape within the pharmaceutical industry, characterised by rapid technological advancements and a growing imperative for regulatory responsiveness. The findings and insights from these interviews provide a comprehensive understanding of the trends influencing the future of pharmaceutical practices. For further exploration of these topics and more exclusive content, interested parties may refer to the resources available on the Pharmaceutical Technology website.
Source: Noah Wire Services