Cell Processing Laboratory Research Articles

Cellular therapy site-preparedness: Inpatient pharmacy implementation at a large academic medical center.

With the recent Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approval of cellular therapy that requires product manipulation prior to administration in combination with a short stability window, the need was identified for local dose preparation within the pharmacy rather than the off-site stem cell processing laboratory. This approval gave rise to assessment of regulatory standards surrounding cellular therapy, evaluation and revision of current standard operating procedures and policies with formal process validation, assessment of occupational exposure mitigation and safety considerations, and development of staff training and education. To describe and provide insight into the stepwise process of FACT validation and onboarding of commercially available cellular therapy products that require sterile compounding manipulation within a pharmacy prior to administration. A multidisciplinary effort is required to attain FACT certification and implement pharmacist compounding of cellular therapy products.1 Local preparation within a pharmacy facilitates a sound operational workflow and provides a pathway to perform aseptic manipulations of cellular therapy products safely and efficiently. Safe and successful administration of cellular therapies handled and compounded by pharmacy department staff along with program validation requires a preemptive review utilizing a multidisciplinary approach for process development. This manuscript will provide a foundation based on consistency and transparency in effective cellular therapy sterile compounding and aseptic manipulation, proper handling and disposal procedures, increased communication through creation and optimization of treatment plans and order-sets, standardized medical center staff education, and development of policies and standard operating procedures for the entire health care team.

Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Derived from Canine Adipose Tissue: Evaluation of the Effect of Different Shipping Vehicles Used for Clinical Administration.

Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (MSCs)-based therapies are rapidly gaining interest in veterinary medicine. Cellular therapy represents a new challenge for practitioners and requires precise coordination between the cell processing laboratory and the veterinary clinic. Cryopreservation is the best method to provide fast, in-time, and long-distance delivery of cells for therapeutic applications. However, potentially toxic cryoprotectants and xenobiotic products make the direct administration of cells impracticable for patients. Alternatively, the cells may be resuspended in a ready-to-use vehicle and shipped to the veterinary clinic. In this study, two nutrient-poor vehicles (physiologic saline and ringer lactate solutions) and two nutrient-rich vehicles (the releasate derived from autologous Platelet Poor Plasma and Platelet Rich Plasma) were tested on adipose tissue-derived canine MSCs (AD-MSCs). AD-MSCs stored for 2, 4, or 24 h in the different media were compared regarding mortality, metabolic activity, and replicative capacity. Furthermore, antioxidant activity and the pattern of expression of genes related to AD-MSCs function were performed following 24 h of storage. The results showed that all the different vehicles preserve cell vitality and replication following short-term storage. In long-term storage, the vehicle and cell density affect cell vitality, proliferation, and gene expression (CCL-2, CXCR-4, and TSG-6). Nutrient-rich vehicles seem better suited to preserve cell functionalities in this contest.

A Novel, Closed-Line Mini Extracorporeal Photopheresis (ECP) Technique Using the Therakos TM CellEx TM Photopheresis System, Developed for Patients with Contraindications Against Conventional ECP Therapy

Introduction: Conventional ECP has proven efficacy for treating several diseases, most significantly steroid-refractory chronic GVHD. Unfortunately, body weight and sufficient venous access limit the availability of this treatment modality. Children, in particular, usually have limited access to ECP. A simplified mini buffy coat ECP technique that allows treating small children and patients with apheresis contraindications has been tested in selected cases during the last 20 years. However, this method relies on an open-line system that requires a longer time and a cell processing laboratory, making this approach challenging. A new -closed-line- method, using the Therakos TM CellEx TM Photopheresis System, has been developed and evaluated in our Center. This method requires no processing laboratory or other special equipment and takes only 60-120 minutes, making the procedure potentially usable in routine practice. Design and methods: A 7-year-old girl had been treated at our Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit with grade IV chronic steroid-refractory GVHD (skin, and less severe liver involvement). As all other options were exhausted, ECP became a desirable form of treatment. However, the patient's low body weight and serious venous access problems hindered conventional ECP treatment. We developed a solution that requires 200-250 ml whole blood collection from the patient, takes less than 2 hours, does not need special cell processing equipment, and allows the ECP treatment to commence in the form of a regular autotransfusion. Consent forms were obtained from the patient's caregivers as well as from the local Ethical Committe. The patient's age at the start of treatment was seven years, and her body weight was 28 kg. A total of 17 mini-ECPs were performed weekly up until the submission of this abstract, and the number of treatments per patient was 33. The duration of mini-ECP treatment has been five months. 5 to 8 mL/kg of whole blood was drawn from the patient. Separation of the white blood cell (WBC) rich buffy coat of the patient's blood - with donor blood product supplementation as needed - was performed through an individualized use of the CellEx TM photopheresis kit and blood prime program. The buffy coat was ultraviolet A (UVA)-irradiated after adding 8-methoxypsoralen (8-MOP) within the Therakos TM CellEx TM Photopheresis System and divided into two fractions under a laminar air flow cabinet. The autologous residual blood with the first fraction of the UVA irradiated buffy coat was transfused immediately. The second buffy coat fraction was stored at 4 °C and transfused the following morning through a peripheral vein. Results : The median volume of the collected whole blood was 250 mL (203-250 mL). The median volume was 72 ml (48-88 mL) for the first fraction of the irradiated buffy coat and 71 ml for the second fraction (48- 88 mL). Apoptosis and cell death were analyzed by annexin V staining; apoptosis and lymphocyte proliferation was measured by flow cytometry. UVA irradiation of the 8-MOP infused buffy coat resulted in significant induction of WBC apoptosis at 24 hours. No clinical side effects were observed during mini ECP treatment; all microbiological control tests were negative. Partial response was observed within three months (skin), and the tapering of systemic immunosuppression (methylprednisolone and ruxolitinib) began at five months. Conclusion: Mini whole blood ECP induces apoptosis and lymphocyte proliferation inhibition, both occurring after standard ECP. The closed-line method requires no special equipment and is not demanding for the patient, providing a viable solution to the technical difficulties children with the need for ECP treatment face.

P‐BT‐10 | Evaluating Technologist Training at a New Community Hospital‐Based Cell Processing Laboratory

P‐BT‐10 | Evaluating Technologist Training at a New Community Hospital‐Based Cell Processing Laboratory

99 - Keeping Transplant & Cell Therapy Patients Safe during an Emergency - How Sarah Cannon TCT Program @ Methodist Hospital, Methodist Children’s Hospital in San Antonio, South Austin Medical Center, and Cellular Therapy Program Cell Processing Laboratory @ Methodist Hospital Successfully Survived a Blizzard

99 - Keeping Transplant & Cell Therapy Patients Safe during an Emergency - How Sarah Cannon TCT Program @ Methodist Hospital, Methodist Children’s Hospital in San Antonio, South Austin Medical Center, and Cellular Therapy Program Cell Processing Laboratory @ Methodist Hospital Successfully Survived a Blizzard

CAR-T therapy: the role of the hematopoietic stem cell processing laboratory

Objectives: Purpose of this paper is to review all the phases that involved, for the first time, the SC of Hematology and the SC of Transfusion Medicine, specifically, the CSE Processing laboratory, in implementing an innovative operative protocol of gene immunotherapy due to the inclusion of the first patient, affected by diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), stage IV, into the CAR-T therapeutic program. The program took place within the SS Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo Hospital of Alessandria.Methods: Firstly, lymphocytes are taken from the patient through a technique called lymphocytoapheresis and inserted into a blood bag. The blood bag is sent to the CSE Processing laboratory, where, after sampling, the following steps are carried out: cell manipulation, possible cryopreservation of the product and subsequent dispatch to specialized production centers, called: Cell Factory. In this laboratory, lymphocytes will be genetically manipulated to be able to express the CAR receptor and co-stimulating factors and, finally, expanded. After 4 weeks, the engineered lymphocytes will return as drug to the CSE Processing laboratory to be reinfused to the patient.Results: At the end of the operative procedure a report is compiled. The report is issued by the laboratory and contains all the information of interest to the clinician.Conclusions: The purpose of my annual experience as a graduate student was to describe the role of the CSE Processing laboratory within the drug production chain. Being experimental and extremely innovative, T-cell-based gene therapy cannot be considered a routine practice. The centers authorized to administer the CAR-T are identified by the Regions and must possess specific organizational and infrastructural requirements. Even the manufacturers of CAR-T therapies have a qualification path that involves inspection by the company's monitors and a final audit. The Processing laboratory, together with the Apheretic collection laboratory, Pharmacy and Hematology, obtained the qualification of "European site Qualified for KYMRIAH® (tisagenlecleucel) and YESCARTA® (axicabtagene ciloleucel)" in 2021.

IFN-γ Induces Distinct Single Cell Transcriptomes in Clinical-Grade Mesenchymal Stromal Cells

INTRODUCTION: Bone marrow derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSC) have been widely used to treat or prevent acute graft-versus-host disease, however the variable efficacies reported between clinical trials suggests considerable heterogeneity between clinical-grade BMSC products. Preincubation of BMSC with IFN-γ may improve their immunosuppressive qualities, reduce the functional diversity of the cell product, and decrease the variability in the clinical results obtained. We aimed to identify the distinct BMSC transcriptome pattern induced by IFN-γ and explored BMSC heterogeneity by studying transcriptional diversity at the single cell level.METHODS: Human clinical grade BMSC (n=3) were produced at the GMP Clinical Cell Processing Laboratory in the Department of Transfusion Medicine, NIH under an IRB-approved protocol (NCT01071577). BMSC at passage 3, were cultured with or without IFN-γ (10 µg/mL) and were harvested after 12 hours. Single cell 3' digital gene expression profiling for BMSC from three paired conditions (IFN-γ +/-) were performed via the10xTM GemCodeTM Single Cell Platform (10x Genomics, Pleasanton, CA USA) at a targeted cell number of 5000 cells. Single cell RNA-seq library generations, GEM-RT, and cDNA amplification were performed according to manufacturer's instruction and libraries were sequenced on Illumina Hiseq 3000. The Cell Ranger Single-Cell Software was used for sample demultiplexing, barcode processing, single-cell gene counting, and cell clustering.RESULTS: BMSC samples were analyzed for single cell transcriptome at an average of 5188 cells per condition with a mean number of reads of 50,789 per cell and a median of 4,482 genes per cell. Cluster analysis of the six pooled samples revealed clinical grade BMSCs comprised a heterogenous population of at least 17 clusters. Mean count of unique molecular identifiers (UMI) confirmed that all clusters ubiquitously expressed BMSC phenotype markers (CD105, CD73, and CD90). Predominant clusters in control BMSC (clusters 2, 5, and 6) were enriched with distinct expression profiles, indicative of the diversity and heterogeneity of BMSC. Based on Gene Ontology gene set enrichment analyses, cluster 2 was enriched for genes involved in the extracellular matrix, endoplasmic reticulum lumen, and cell adhesion with high expression of IL1β, a proinflammatory cytokine. Clusters 5 and 6 made up populations enriched with a similar set of genes contributing to the mitotic cell cycle checkpoint system, protein serine-threonine kinase activity, and cell division suggesting proliferation potency. Cluster 6 was further characterized by genes involved in DNA replication and ATP binding. IFN-ɣ dramatically altered cluster arrangement, influencing the cell population and its function. For example, major clusters in control BMSC (clusters 2, 5, 6, and 16) significantly diminished in population size and, instead, new clusters 1, 9, and 15 appeared with IFN-ɣ stimulation (Figure). These IFN-ɣ inducible clusters were enriched for genes regulating chemotaxis, leukocyte migration, and MHC class I and II in addition to the type I interferon signaling pathway. Cluster 1 also expressed IDO1, a heme enzyme producing gene responsible for exhibiting immunosuppressive activity. Cluster 9 possessed distinctive features of genes involved in positive regulation of cAMP-mediated signaling and transport vesicle membranes, suggesting extracellular vesicle and exosome activity. Irrespective of IFN-ɣ stimulation, stagnant clusters enriched with G-protein coupled receptor signaling pathway genes remained, representing a vital population in stem cell self-renewal function.CONCLUSION: Single cell RNA-seq analysis of clinical grade BMSCs revealed a significant heterogeneous population composed of multiple clusters with distinct gene expression patterns. IFN-γ further modified the landscape of transcriptomes of BMSC at a single cell level. This transcriptome diversity may explain the differences in the quality of BMSC products for clinical application. Ongoing experiments include determining the dynamics of the population structure responsible for BMSC diversity and correlating the patterns of single cell transcriptome with the clinical potency of BMSC products. [Display omitted] DisclosuresNo relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Establishment of a cell processing laboratory to support hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy

Cell processing laboratories are an important part of cancer treatment centers. Cell processing laboratories began by supporting hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation programs. These laboratories adapted closed bag systems, centrifuges, sterile connecting devices and other equipment used in transfusion services/blood banks to remove red blood cells and plasma from marrow and peripheral blood stem cells products. The success of cellular cancer immunotherapies such as Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cells has increased the importance of cell processing laboratories. Since many of the diseases successfully treated by CAR T-cell therapy are also treated by HSC transplantation and since HSC transplantation teams are well suited to manage patients treated with CAR T-cells, many cell processing laboratories have begun to produce CAR T-cells. The methods that have been used to process HSCs have been modified for T-cell enrichment, culture, stimulation, transduction and expansion for CAR T-cell production. While processing laboratories are well suited to manufacture CAR T-cells and other cellular therapies, producing these therapies is challenging. The manufacture of cellular therapies requires specialized facilities which are costly to build and maintain. The supplies and reagents, especially vectors, can also be expensive. Finally, highly skilled staff are required. The use of automated equipment for cell production may reduce labor requirements and the cost of facilities. The steps used to produce CAR T-cells are reviewed, as well as various strategies for establishing a laboratory to manufacture these cells.

Variations in novel cellular therapy products manufacturing

At the frontier of transfusion medicine and transplantation, the field of cellular therapy is emerging. Most novel cellular therapy products are produced under investigational protocols with no clear standardization across cell processing centers. Thus, the purpose of this study was to uncover any variations in manufacturing practices for similar cellular therapy products across different cell processing laboratories worldwide. An exploratory survey that was designed to identify variations in manufacturing practices in novel cellular therapy products was sent to cell processing laboratory directors worldwide. The questionnaire focused on the manufacturing life cycle of different cell therapies (i.e., collection, purification, in vitro expansion, freezing and storage, and thawing and washing), as well as the level of regulations followed to process each product type. The majority of the centers processed hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) from peripheral blood (n=18), bone marrow (n=16) or cord blood (n=19), making HPCs the most commonly processed cells. The next most commonly produced cellular therapies were lymphocytes (n=19) followed by mesenchymal stromal cells (n=14), dendritic cells (n=9) and natural killer (NK) cells (n=9). A minority of centers (<5) processed pancreatic islet cells (n=4), neural cells (n=3) and induced-pluripotent stem cells (n=3). Thirty-two laboratories processed products under an investigational status, for either phase I/II (n=27) or phase III (n=17) clinical trials. If purification methods were used, these varied for the type of product processed and by institution. Environmental monitoring methods also varied by product type and institution. This exploratory survey shows a wide variation in cellular therapy manufacturing practices across different cell processing laboratories. A better understanding of the effect of these variations on the quality of these cell-based therapies will be important to assess for further process evaluation and development.

Worldwide Network for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (WBMT) recommendations for establishing a hematopoietic cell transplantation program (Part I): Minimum requirements and beyond

Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is a highly complex procedure that requires a dedicated multidisciplinary team to optimize its safety. In addition, institutions may have different needs regarding indications based on regional disease prevalence or may have an interest in developing specialized services. Yet, structured recommendations are not commonly available. Here, the Transplant Center and Recipient Issues Standing Committee for the Worldwide Network for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (WBMT) organized a structured review of all pertinent elements to establish a transplant program. First, we solicited components from committee members and grouped them in domains (infrastructure, staff, cell processing laboratory, blood banking, laboratory, radiology, pharmacy, HLA testing, ancillary services and quality). Subsequently, reviewers scored all elements on a 7-point scale, from an absolute requirement (score of 1) to not required (score of 7). An independent group of five experienced transplant physicians reviewed the rankings. Minimum requirements to establish any HCT program were identified among elements with mean score of ≤2.0, and specific elements for allogeneic and autologous HCT were identified. Mean scores >2.0–4.0 were classified as preferred recommendation, and mean scores of >4.0 to ≤7.0 were considered ideal recommendations for advanced and complex types of transplantation. This structured set of recommendations guides the prioritization of minimum requirements to establish a transplant program and to set the path for expansion and further development.

Worldwide Network for Blood and Marrow Transplantation Recommendations for Establishing a Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Program, Part I: Minimum Requirements and Beyond.

Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is a highly complex procedure that requires a dedicated multidisciplinary team to optimize safety. In addition, institutions may have different needs regarding indications based on regional disease prevalence or may have an interest in developing specialized services. Structured recommendations are not commonly available, however. The Transplant Center and Recipient Issues Standing Committee of the Worldwide Network for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (WBMT) organized a structured review of all pertinent elements for establishing a transplantation program. First, we solicited components from committee members and grouped them into domains (infrastructure, staff, cell processing laboratory, blood banking, laboratory, radiology, pharmacy, HLA testing, ancillary services, and quality). Subsequently, reviewers scored each element on a 7-point scale, ranging from an absolute requirement (score of 1) to not required (score of 7). An independent group of 5 experienced transplantation physicians reviewed the rankings. The minimum requirements for establishing any HCT program were identified among elements with mean score of ≤2.0, and specific elements for allogeneic and autologous HCT were identified. Mean scores of >2.0 to 4.0 were classified as preferred recommendation, and mean scores of >4.0 to ≤ 7.0 were considered ideal recommendations for advanced and complex types of transplantation. This structured set of recommendations guides the prioritization of minimum requirements to establish a transplantation program and set the stage for expansion and further development.

Reprogramming of bone marrow derived mesenchymal stromal cells to human induced pluripotent stem cells from pediatric patients with hematological diseases using a commercial mRNA kit

The potential use of patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) in the study and treatment of hematological diseases requires the setup of efficient and safe protocols for hiPSC generation. We aimed to adopt a reprogramming method for large-scale production of integration-free patient-specific hiPSC-lines in our stem cell processing laboratory, which supports a pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant unit located at a tertiary care children's hospital. We describe our 5-year experience in generation of hiPSC-lines from human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs) using synthetic mRNAs encoding reprogramming factors. We generated hiPSC-lines from pediatric patients with β-Thalassemia, Sickle Cell Anemia, Blackfan-Diamond Anemia, Severe Aplastic Anemia, DOCK8 Immunodeficiency and 1 healthy control. After optimization of the reprogramming procedure, average reprogramming efficiency of BM-MSCs was 0.29% (range 0.25–0.4). The complete reprogramming process lasted 14–16 days. Three to five hiPSC-colonies per sample were selected, expanded to 5 culture passages and then frozen. The whole procedure took an average time of 1.8 months (range 1.6–2.2). The hiPSC-lines expressed embryonic stem cell markers and exhibited pluripotency. This mRNA reprogramming method can be applicable in a hematopoietic stem cell culture lab setting and would be useful for the clinical translation of patient-specific hiPSCs.

Point-of-Care Manufacturing of CD20.19 Bi-Specific Chimeric Antigen Receptor T (CAR-T) Cells in a Standard Academic Cell Processing Facility for a Phase I Clinical Trial in Relapsed, Refractory NHL

Adoptive cell therapy with autologous CAR-T cells has induced remarkable responses in patients with treatment-refractory hematologic malignancies, which has led to FDA approvals for two CAR-T products. However, limitations exist with commercial CAR-T centralized production: (1) off-site manufacturing can take several weeks and requires shipping from and to the treating facility; (2) off-site manufacturing limits treatment options for progressing patients; (3) high cost of the commercial products may limit their availability. To address these challenges, we used the fully automated Miltenyi CliniMACS Prodigy device, a GMP-compliant closed system, to manufacture autologous CAR-T cells for a Phase I trial (NCT03019055) evaluating a first-in-human bi-specific CAR that targets CD19 and CD20 (CD20.19 CAR).CAR-T manufacturing was performed exclusively using the CliniMACS Prodigy device and reagents obtained from Miltenyi Biotec. Production was performed within the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) Cell Therapy Laboratory, an ISO7 air handling environment. Manufacturing was set at 14 days, and production was as follows. First, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (MNC) were collected by apheresis, with a collection goal of 4 blood volumes to eliminate risk of a low CD3 yield in heavily pre-treated patients. Next, MNC were loaded onto the Prodigy, and CD4 and CD8 T cells enriched by positive immunomagnetic selection. To start the culture process, enriched T cells were suspended in TexMACS medium supplemented with 3% human AB serum and 200 U/mL IL-2, and TransACT reagent was added to stimulate the T cells in the Prodigy cell culture chamber. The following day (day 1), lentiviral vector expressing anti-CD19 and anti-CD20 (in tandem) with CD3ζ and 4-1BB stimulatory domains was added to the stimulated cells. Culture washes and feedings were done on days 5, 6, 8, 10 and 12 of manufacture, and final products harvested on Day 14. Protein L staining was used to detect expression of CD20.19 CAR on the T cells. On Day 14, eligible patients received fresh CAR-T cells, while for others the product was cryopreserved and administered on a later date.To date, the MCW Cell Therapy Laboratory has successfully generated CAR-T cell products for all 6 patients enrolled thus far on the Phase 1 clinical trial with no production failures (Table 1). Three patients received cryopreserved product and 3 patients received fresh product. The enriched T cells were 94.3% CD3+ (87.8-97.4%), and average T cell recovery from the apheresis cell products was 65.2% (54.2-80.0%). Protein L staining indicated 20.8% average CD20.19 CAR expression. Patient CAR-T cells were able to kill CD19+ and CD20+ target cells in vitro and produce IFN-gamma in response to the same target cells. An average yield of 5.9e+8 (4.3-7.9e+8) CAR T cells was obtained at harvest, which exceeded the required cell dose for all patients. The CAR-T cells were comprised of both CD4 and CD8 T cells, with higher expression on CD4 T cells; average CAR-T CD4:CD8 ratio on the final products was 2.8. The majority of T cells (average of 81.5%) had an effector-memory phenotype. In-process testing performed on Day 8 of manufacturing demonstrated sufficient numbers of CAR-T cells needed for patient infusions were already present, and that the CAR-T cells only expanded an additional 1.9 to 3.5-fold between Days 8 and 14.In conclusion, we have successfully demonstrated feasibility for point-of-care CAR-T cell production for clinical use from patient apheresis products utilizing the CliniMACS Prodigy device. Time to production was efficient (14 days), and patient-derived CAR-T cell products were reproducibly generated in a standard cell processing laboratory within an academic medical center. A major clinical advantage of CAR-T cells generated on-site is the flexibility in treatment. Patients can receive cells either immediately (i.e., fresh) or the cells can be cryopreserved for later infusion if the patient is not able to receive fresh cells. Based on our results, we intend to decrease the cell processing time to 10 days. [Display omitted] DisclosuresZhu:Lentigen Technology Inc., A Miltenyi Biotec Company: Research Funding. Shah:Juno Pharmaceuticals: Honoraria; Oncosec: Equity Ownership; Geron: Equity Ownership; Exelexis: Equity Ownership; Miltenyi: Other: Travel funding, Research Funding; Lentigen Technology: Research Funding. Schneider:Lentigen Technology Inc., A Miltenyi Biotec Company: Employment. Keever-Taylor:Medical College of Wisconsin: Research Funding. Dropulic:Lentigen, A Miltenyi Biotec company: Employment. Orentas:Lentigen Technology Inc., A Miltenyi Biotec Company: Employment. Hari:Bristol-Myers Squibb: Consultancy, Research Funding; Amgen Inc.: Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Janssen: Honoraria; Kite Pharma: Consultancy, Honoraria; Takeda: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Spectrum: Consultancy, Research Funding; Sanofi: Honoraria, Research Funding. Johnson:Miltenyi: Research Funding.

Training practices of cell processing laboratory staff: analysis of a survey by the Alliance for Harmonization of Cellular Therapy Accreditation

Background aimsMethods for processing products used for hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) transplantation must ensure their safety and efficacy. Personnel training and ongoing competency assessment is critical to this goal. Here we present results from a global survey of methods used by a diverse array of cell processing facilities for the initial training and ongoing competency assessment of key personnel. MethodsThe Alliance for Harmonisation of Cellular Therapy Accreditation (AHCTA) created a survey to identify facility type, location, activity, personnel, and methods used for training and competency. A survey link was disseminated through organizations represented in AHCTA to processing facilities worldwide. Responses were tabulated and analyzed as a percentage of total responses and as a percentage of response by region group. ResultsMost facilities were based at academic medical centers or hospitals. Facilities with a broad range of activity, product sources and processing procedures were represented. Facilities reported using a combination of training and competency methods. However, some methods predominated. Cellular sources for training differed for training versus competency and also differed based on frequency of procedures performed. Most facilities had responsibilities for procedures in addition to processing for which training and competency methods differed. Although regional variation was observed, training and competency requirements were generally consistent. ConclusionsSurvey data showed the use of a variety of training and competency methods but some methods predominated, suggesting their utility. These results could help new and established facilities in making decisions for their own training and competency programs.

Essential requirements for setting up a stem cell processing laboratory.

The Graft Processing subcommittee of the Worldwide Network for Blood and Marrow Transplantation wrote this guideline to assist physicians and laboratory technologists with the setting up of a cell processing laboratory (CPL) to support a hematopoietic stem cell transplant program, thereby facilitating the start-up of a transplant program in a new location and improving patient access to transplantation worldwide. This guideline describes the minimal essential features of designing such a laboratory and provides a list of equipment and supply needs and staffing recommendations. It describes the typical scope of services that a CPL is expected to perform, including product testing services, and discusses the basic principles behind the most frequent procedures. Quality management (QM) principles specific to a CPL are also discussed. References to additional guidance documents that are available worldwide to assist with QM and regulatory compliance are also provided.

Hematopoietic stem cell processing laboratory: quality of stored stem cells and its role in transplantation outcomes

Hematopoietic stem cell processing laboratory: quality of stored stem cells and its role in transplantation outcomes

Simplified Method of the Growth of Human Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes in Gas-permeable Flasks to Numbers Needed for Patient Treatment

Adoptive cell therapy of metastatic melanoma with autologous tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) is clinically effective, but TIL production can be challenging. Here we describe a simplified method for initial TIL culture and rapid expansion in gas-permeable flasks. TIL were initially cultured from tumor digests and fragments in 40 mL capacity flasks with a 10 cm² gas-permeable silicone bottom, G-Rex10. A TIL rapid expansion protocol (REP) was developed using 500 mL capacity flasks with a 100 cm² gas-permeable silicone bottom, G-Rex100. TIL growth was successfully initiated in G-Rex10 flasks from tumor digests from 13 of 14 patients and from tumor fragments in all 11 tumor samples tested. TIL could then be expanded to 8-10×10⁹ cells in a 2-step REP that began by seeding 5×10⁶ TIL into a G-Rex100 flask, followed by expansion at day 7 into 3 G-Rex100 flasks. To obtain the 30-60×10⁹ cells used for patient treatment, we seeded 6 G-Rex100 flasks with 5×10⁶ cells and expanded into 18 G-Rex100 flasks. Large-scale TIL REP in gas-permeable flasks requires approximately 9-10 L of media, about 3-4 times less than other methods. In conclusion, TIL initiation and REP in gas-permeable G-Rex flasks require fewer total vessels, less media, less incubator space, and less labor than initiation and REP in 24-well plates, tissue culture flasks, and bags. TIL culture in G-Rex flasks will facilitate the production of TIL at the numbers required for patient treatment at most cell processing laboratories.

The use of plerixafor in hematopoietic progenitor cell collection in pediatric patients: a single center experience

Plerixafor was recently approved for use in combination with granulocyte-colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) for hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) collection by apheresis in adults with multiple myeloma (MM) or non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). However, its efficacy in pediatric patients is not well-studied; thus, we report on our institutional experience with this population. A retrospective observational analysis was performed using both stem cell-processing laboratory information as well as apheresis charts and medical records on all pediatric patients who received plerixafor as part of the mobilization regimen between December 2006 and December 2010. The primary outcome was collection yield. Secondary outcomes included the ability to undergo autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (auto-HSCT) and engraftment status. Eighteen HPC collections by apheresis representing seven mobilization courses were performed on five pediatric patients with poor mobilization status (three males, two females; median age 14 years). Median pre-harvest peripheral blood CD34(+) cell (PB CD34(+)) count was 6.88/μL. A strong correlation between pre-harvest PB CD34(+) count and collection yield was observed. Median total collection yield was 2.26 × 10(6) CD34(+) cells/kg. Four patients achieved a minimum collection of 2 × 10(6) CD34(+) cells/kg. Three patients underwent auto-HSCT with a median neutrophil and platelet engraftment of 12 and 34 days, respectively. No major adverse events with plerixafor administration or apheresis collections were reported. Plerixafor in combination with G-CSF is a safe and potentially helpful mobilization agent in poor mobilizers. Further studies should be done to evaluate the true efficacy of plerixafor in the pediatric population.

Autologous Stem Cell Transplant in Patients with Multiple Myeloma Previously Treated with Lenalidomide: A Single-Institution Experience Using An Intermediate-Dose Cyclophosphamide-Based Regimen

Abstract 4391 Background:High dose chemotherapy followed by autologous transplantation of peripheral blood stem cells plays an important role in the management of intermediate- and advanced-stage multiple myeloma. In order for successful engraftment to occur, adequate numbers of high quality peripheral stem cells must be harvested prior to transplantation. Mobilization of PBSC in patients treated with lenalidomide has been associated with poor apheresis collections after G-CSF mobilization. The purpose of this study is to present our institution's experience utilizing an intermediate-dose cyclophosphamide-based mobilization regimen. Methods:We retrospectively analyzed data for patients with multiple myeloma who underwent autologous stem cell transplant at UCLA between 2006 and 2010. Data were obtained from the database of the UCLA Heme Malignancy/Stem Cell Transplant Unit, the electronic health record system and stem cell processing laboratory. All patients underwent mobilization with a regimen of cyclophosphamide 2.5g/m2 IVPB, G-CSF 10 mcg/kg/day for 4 days SQ, and prednisone 2mg/kg/day for 4 days po. The number of CD 34+ cells was used as a marker for the number of peripheral stem cells collected. Minimum dose collected to ensure adequate engraftment was 2×106/kg CD34+ cells. Patients were conditioned with melphalan 100mg/m2/d x2 (unless there was evidence of renal failure, in which case the dose was reduced to 100mg/m2) with subsequent infusion of stem cells. Neutrophil engraftment was defined as the first day of absolute neutrophil count greater than 500×106/L ≥ 7 days after transplant. Results:Autologous stem cell transplant was performed in 103 patients with multiple myeloma at UCLA between 2006 and 2010. Median number of apheresis procedures was 1 (1–12) with a median of 4.4×106/kg (1.4–33.5) CD34+ cells collected. Median time to engraftment was 10 (8–18) days. Thirty-five patients received lenalidomide at some point in their pretransplant treatment. Median number of apheresis procedures was 1 in both lenalidomide and non lenalidomide treated groups. In the lenalidomide treated group 54% required only one collection versus 75% in the non lenalidomide treated group (p=0.033). In the lenalidomide treated group 31% required 3 more or more collections versus 10% in non lenalidomide treated group (p=0.0075). Three patients in the lenalidomide group had subsequent mobilization with plerixafor with one of these requiring bone marrow harvesting. Median CD34+ cells collected was 3.5×106/kg and 4.9×106/kg (p=0.246) in the lenalidomide and non-lenalidomide groups respectively. Both groups had a median time to neutrophil engraftment of 10 days with a similar range. Conclusion:Pre-transplant use of lenalidomide adversely affected the number of stem cell apheresis procedures required to procure adequate stem cell dose as evidenced by a greater percentage requiring 3 or more collections. However, despite prior lenalidomide exposure, the use of our mobilization regimen permitted adequate collection, with the majority of patients requiring only one apheresis procedure, and led to an equivalent time to neutrophil recovery. Disclosures:Off Label Use: Cyclophosphamide and G-CSF for mobilization of stem cells.

The implementation of tissue banking experiences for setting up a cGMP cell manufacturing facility

Cell manufacturing for clinical applications is a unique form of biologics manufacturing that relies on maintenance of stringent work practices designed to ensure product consistency and prevent contamination by microorganisms or by another patient's cells. More extensive, prolonged laboratory processes involve greater risk of complications and possibly adverse events for the recipient, and so the need for control is correspondingly greater. To minimize the associate risks of cell manufacturing adhering to international quality standards is critical. Current good tissue practice (cGTP) and current good manufacturing practice (cGMP) are examples of general standards that draw a baseline for cell manufacturing facilities. In recent years, stem cell researches have found great public interest in Iran and different cell therapy projects have been started in country. In this review we described the role of our tissue banking experiences in establishing a new cGMP cell manufacturing facility. The authors concluded that, tissue banks and tissue banking experts can broaden their roles from preparing tissue grafts to manufacturing cell and tissue engineered products for translational researches and phase I clinical trials. Also they can collaborate with cell processing laboratories to develop SOPs, implement quality management system, and design cGMP facilities.