Enabling Next-Generation Treatments for Fibrosis & Infection
Macrophages are among the most versatile and flexible immune cells we know today. Using iPSC-derived macrophages (iMAC) with superior process and phenotype control allows us to harness their full potential and unique properties. The unique properties of macrophages make iMAC a promising treatment option for chronic/acute infections and fibrosis, diseases with high mortality and currently limited treatment options.
iMAC Cell Therapy
- Natural homing to infected, inflamed or fibrotic tissue
- Immune-modulatory properties
- Inactivation, killing and phagocytosis of cells with target molecules
- Natural efferocytosis capacity
- ECM remodeling and degradation
- Suitable for high-risk patients e.g. cystic fibrosis or immuno-compromised patients
Competitiveness of iMAC Cell Therapy
Manufacturing iPSC-derived Macrophages
Genetically engineered or unmodified GMP‑grade iPSCs are differentiated into iMAC, which are subjected to comprehensive quality control and cryopreserved in a ready-to-infuse formulation. Their off‑the‑shelf availability and suitability for outpatient administration substantially enhance therapeutic accessibility.
Our proprietary manufacturing process delivers 40 x larger batch sizes compared to donor‑derived CAR T cells and is designed for seamless upscaling. With a low cost-of-goods (COGS) per dose, it offers a highly competitive treatment alternative.
Our modular GMP-compatible Gene Editing Process Enables a Versatile iMAC Platform
- Customizable exchangeable CAR for target specificity or combination with Immune Cell Engager (ICE)
- Depletion of MHC surface display to prevent allorejection via T cells
- Inhibitory mechanism to prevent allorejection from NK cells
- Further knock-ins to enhance function
- Safety switch for therapeutic intervention
Evotec’s Internal iMAC Programs
Evotec is currently developing two iMAC product candidates:
- Immune-shielded CAR-iMAC to treat fibrosis with a focus on liver and lung fibrosis
- Unedited iMAC to treat infections with a follow-up option including a CAR and/or anti-microbial edits
Learn More About Our Science in Our Articles
- Development of GMP-Compatible Genetically Modified iPSC-Derived Macrophages for Off-The-Shelf Cell Therapy >
- De-risking & Streamlining Cell & Gene Therapy Development Through Advanced Process & Analytical Strategies >
- Combatting Solid Tumors With iPSC-Derived Macrophage (iMAC) Cell Therapy >
- Addressing Unmet Challenges in CAR T Cell Therapeutics >
- Genetic Integrity Testing of Genome-Edited Pluripotent Stem Cell Lines Used for Cell Therapy Applications >
- Powering the Next Generation of Cancer Immunotherapy: iPSC-Derived Immune Cells Meet Immune Cell Engagers >
- From Bench to GMP: Streamlining the Transfer of Cell-Based Processes to Clinical Grade Manufacturing at Evotec’s Modena Manufacturing Site >
- Off the Shelf Immune-Shielded Stem Cell-Derived γδ T Cells for Clinical Applications >
