- Charles River Laboratories International Inc. has introduced rapid cell banking programs that combine rapid cell bank and release testing with Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) characterization for biopharmaceutical and advanced therapy developers.
- The company said the programs are designed to shorten development timelines while supporting product quality, safety and regulatory readiness.
Charles River Laboratories International Inc. has introduced rapid cell banking programs designed to accelerate cell bank establishment and release timelines for biopharmaceutical and advanced therapy developers. The programs combine rapid cell bank and release packages with Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)-based characterization.
The offering uses rapid microbiological methods for microbial detection, including Celsis ATP-Bioluminescence technology, and real-time PCR for rapid mycoplasma detection. Charles River said these approaches replace traditional compendial testing with automated results intended to shorten pre-bank and release testing timelines.
Following cell bank establishment, Charles River can use NGS through its iDTECT platform for in vitro characterization. According to the company, the platform provides broad viral detection capabilities alongside scalable genetic analysis and pathogen detection. The combined offering is intended to support biologic and advanced therapy developers as programs progress from early development toward commercialization.
The company said the programs also support regulatory readiness and its commitment to the 3Rs — Replacement, Reduction and Refinement — through its Alternative Methods Advancement Project. Charles River said the project focuses on reducing reliance on animal testing while supporting product development.
“By leveraging our long-standing expertise in rapid test methods, we can expedite pre-bank and release testing timelines, enabling clients to establish and characterize cell banks quickly and move their product forward in development.”
Matthew Hewitt, Corporate Vice President, Chief Technology Officer, Manufacturing at Charles River