Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult (CGT Catapult) has completed a collaboration with Liverpool-based company Protostem-AI to validate the potential of its artificial intelligence (AI) powered project management software for stem cell biology research and development.
Stem cell research and the development of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived therapies involve complex, multi-step processes that are highly dependent on precise culture conditions and protocols. Inconsistencies in these processes across laboratories and institutions create significant bottlenecks in translation, slowing the path from research to clinical application. Protostem-AI has developed a software platform that uses iteratively trained AI in a federated learning model to design, optimise and monitor stem cell maintenance and differentiation procedures. The platform aims to standardise workflows between laboratories and reduce the risk of process failures.
CGT Catapult worked with Protostem-AI through two expert workshops, drawing on in-house expertise in iPSC expansion and differentiation processes. Together, the teams explored key industry challenges the software could address, tested the tool against two application-based scenarios, and developed a high-level roadmap to guide the further development of Protostem-AI's platform.
The collaboration has helped Protostem-AI to conceptually validate the efficacy of its tool and advance its technology readiness level, strengthening its position for future funding applications and conversations with potential industry partners.
The expertise and dedication shown by the CGT Catapult science and project management teams was incredible; the work surpassed all our expectations. Without their support, we would have greatly struggled to reach the technology readiness level needed to be eligible for target grants. The collaboration has allowed us to conceptually validate our tool's efficacy and has positioned us well for future funding.
Dr Dominic Mosses, CEO, Protostem-AI
Improving the efficiency and reliability of stem cell processes is essential if we are to realise the full potential of iPSC-derived therapies. Protostem-AI is developing a genuinely novel approach to a challenge that affects laboratories and developers across the sector, and we were pleased to contribute our technical expertise to help them validate and advance their platform. Supporting innovative companies like Protostem-AI to build the evidence base they need to grow is exactly the kind of work we are here to do.
Matthew Durdy, Chief Executive, Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult