Taiwan Bio Partners with Terumo BCT to Advance Automated Treg Manufacturing on Quantum Flex
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Taiwan Bio Therapeutics has entered into a collaboration with Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies to transition regulatory T-cell (Treg) manufacturing onto the Quantum Flex platform.
The move aims to replace manual processes with a more scalable and consistent automated approach.
Taiwan Bio is developing Treg-based therapies following recent scientific advances highlighting the role of these cells in maintaining immune tolerance. Its lead candidate, TRK-001, is currently in multicentre Phase 2 trials to evaluate its potential in preventing graft rejection in kidney transplant patients.
As part of the collaboration, Taiwan Bio’s existing Phase 2 manufacturing process will be integrated with Quantum Flex to create an improved workflow for next-generation engineered Treg production. This builds on Terumo BCT’s previously published 3-in-1 protocol, which combines cell activation, viral transduction and expansion within a single closed bioreactor. The approach is designed to reduce manual intervention and minimise variability.
The partnership focuses on improving manufacturing consistency, efficiency and scalability, particularly for Tregs, which are known to be difficult to expand and maintain. By adopting a closed and automated system, the companies aim to reduce production costs, shorten manufacturing timelines and support broader clinical development.
Initial work is underway to assess the performance, simplicity and scalability of the integrated process. The companies plan to complete early transition and optimisation activities in the coming months.
Following this phase, Taiwan Bio intends to use the adapted Quantum Flex-based process to support its next-generation engineered Treg programmes. The goal is to advance at least one candidate towards an Investigational New Drug application, alongside joint industry engagement activities in the region.
Source: terumobct.com
