iBio, a biotech innovator and biologics contract manufacturing organization (CMO), has entered into a Master Services Agreement (MSA) with Boston-based Safi Biosolutions to evaluate iBio’s FastPharming System for the expression of key proteins to be used in the bioprocessing of Safi blood cell therapy products.

Safi is an early stage biotech company working as the cell therapy commercialization partner for a five-year government program aiming to produce blood on-demand, a national priority. Initial development efforts for manufactured blood cell therapies include red blood cells for trauma, tailored red blood cells for specific transfusion indications and a neutrophil progenitor cell therapy for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. To achieve the quality and cost-of-goods objectives for the program, Safi turned to iBio’s plant-based protein expression system.

iBio’s process development, biochemistry and pharmaceutical development teams plan to engage with Safi to evaluate options to use iBio’s FastPharming System to generate cGMP growth factors and cytokines.

“iBio is pleased to partner with Safi as we leverage our capabilities and know-how for this innovative cell therapy program,” said Tom Isett, chairman and chief executive officer, iBio. “This opportunity is a natural fit for our new portfolio of Research & Bioprocess products, in which we are developing animal-free solutions for cell culture and 3D-bioprinting applications, amongst others.”

Pursuant to the MSA, iBio will manufacture ten proteins to be evaluated in the production of Safi’s cell therapies as part of the first Statement of Work. Safi will have the option to designate certain proteins as proprietary to their bioprocess, but iBio will have the right to commercialize all other products.

Doug McConnell, co-founder and chief executive officer, Safi Biosolutions, said, “Safi Biosolutions believes iBio’s plant-based expression system has the potential to provide both quality improvement and cost reduction for many of the important cytokines and media used in our cell culture and growth process, and we are excited to initiate this strategic partnership.”

Additionally, iBio has agreed to invest $1.5 million in Safi in the form of a convertible promissory note.