Improving AAV productivity: a technical deep-dive into next-generation solutions for cell and gene therapy applications

Jim brings over 34 years of expertise in the gene therapy field. He holds a Masters degree in Bacteriology and a B.S. in Genetics from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Jim spent the first 18 years of his career at the Waisman Center at UW Madison under the tutelage of Dr. Jon Wolff and Dr. Jim Hagstrom (two of the cofounders of Mirus Bio) studying the delivery of naked pDNA to muscle for gene therapy applications (eg. Muscular Dystrophy), and the nuclear transport of pDNA in cells – one of the primary rate limiting steps for an efficient transfection. During this time, Jim has co-authored over 15 peer-reviewed articles in the field of gene therapy.

Following that tenure, Jim transitioned to Roche Madison in order to further develop the DPC (Dynamic Polyconjugate) technology which was initiated at Mirus Bio. After that, Jim moved to work at Mirus where he helped develop of a variety of transfection reagents, including TransIT® VirusGEN and TransIT® AAViator.

As a Group Leader at Mirus Bio, Jim continues to develop transfection reagents by utilizing Mirus’ extensive polymer and lipid library. This unique toolbox allows for truly novel formulations that often exhibit extensive improvements in transfection efficacy (for example, increased AAV titers).

Fletcher is a creative biotech industry professional with subject matter expertise in product strategy and bringing new products to market. In his current role, he leads the strategy, product management, and business development functions at Mirus Bio.

Most recently Fletcher was Head of Product at Nanopareil where he designed and executed product strategy. Prior to Nanopareil he helped develop and launch Repligen’s OPUS® pre-packed column product line in 2012 and spent 9 years building the business into the market segment leader with annual revenues >$50M. From 2012-2021, Fletcher spearheaded more than 10 go-to-market product launch campaigns and worked closely with end-users to implement the technology for cGMP applications. Passionate about new technology, Fletcher is driven by his vision of delivering transformative products to the bioprocessing industry. He holds a BA in chemistry from Hamilton College and an MBA from Babson College.