Expert Insight

Miguel Forte and Simon Ellison

Supply Chain Management: PoC considerations, Product Tracking & Data Management

Cell therapies present the opportunity to change the lives of patients with previously untreatable conditions, most recently a child with epidermolysis bullosa [1]. Nevertheless, if they cannot be delivered, both clinically and logistically, then their benefit is irrelevant. Indeed a robust, efficient supply chain can differentiate products and therapies. The traditional pharmaceutical development cycle is 10 years, however Kymriah went from clinical trials to market in 5 years and many innovators are talking about times shorter than this. Therefore, robust delivery systems have to be developed now, as the industry does not have the time for a more organic progression. This paper will investigate the evolution of the industry, identify seven delivery barriers (both logistical and clinical) and suggest strategies to ensure continued industry growth and patient benefit.

Submitted for review: Oct 27 2017 Published: Dec 15 2017
DOI: 10.18609/cgti.2017.083
Citation: Cell Gene Therapy Insights 2017; 3(10), 835-841.