L7 | CHATS thought leadership

Translating Research Processes into Manufacturing Therapeutic Outcomes

by Jon Stacks | posted on October 17, 2023

Translating research processes into manufacturing therapeutics involves a complex and highly regulated journey from the laboratory to large-scale production. Informatics systems play a crucial role in managing and optimizing this transition.

 

Here’s a summary of how informatics systems lend a critical element in this process:

  1. Data Collection and Integration: Informatics systems facilitate the collection and integration of diverse data sources, including genomics, proteomics, and clinical trial data. This integrated data helps researchers make informed decisions during the development phase.
  2. Experimental Design: These systems assist in designing experiments, helping researchers plan and execute experiments more effectively. They can analyze historical data to optimize experimental parameters.
  3. Data Analysis and Interpretation: Informatics systems aid in analyzing experimental results, identifying patterns, and drawing meaningful conclusions. Machine learning algorithms can assist in identifying potential therapeutic candidates and predicting their efficacy.
  4. Regulatory Compliance: Manufacturing therapeutics involves complying with strict regulatory standards. Informatics systems help track and ensure compliance at every stage, from research to production, to meet the stringent quality and safety requirements of the pharmaceutical industry.
  5. Inventory Management: Managing reagents, chemicals, and other supplies is critical in research and manufacturing. Informatics systems can help maintain accurate inventory records, reducing the risk of delays and errors.
  6. Process Automation: These systems can automate repetitive tasks in manufacturing, reducing human error and ensuring consistency in product quality. Automation also helps scale up production to meet demand.
  7. Quality Control: Informatics systems enable real-time monitoring of quality parameters during the manufacturing process. They can flag any deviations from established standards, allowing for rapid corrective action.
  8. Supply Chain Management: Coordinating the supply chain is essential for the timely delivery of raw materials and the distribution of finished therapeutics. Informatics systems can optimize the supply chain, ensuring efficient and cost-effective operations.
  9. Data Security and Privacy: Protecting sensitive research and patient data is paramount. Informatics systems implement robust security measures to safeguard data from breaches or unauthorized access.
  10. Collaboration and Communication: Effective collaboration among researchers, manufacturing teams, and regulatory bodies is essential. Informatics systems facilitate communication and knowledge sharing, enhancing coordination across departments and organizations.
  11. Data Archiving and Retrieval: Storing and archiving research and manufacturing data is essential for long-term reference and regulatory compliance. Informatics systems ensure data is easily retrievable and securely stored.
  12. Continuous Improvement: These systems support the implementation of continuous improvement methodologies, such as Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing, by providing data for process optimization.

In summary, informatics systems serve as a critical bridge between research and manufacturing in the development of therapeutics. They enable efficient data management, process optimization, compliance with regulatory standards, and effective communication, ultimately speeding up the transition from the lab to large-scale production and improving the quality and safety of therapeutic products.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jon Stacks, Biotech Operations Director

Jon Stacks is an experienced sales and senior commercial leader. Specifically, he specializes in sales operations management, technical and consultative sales of life science software, and protein-based instruments (DNA, RNA Instruments, and Reagents). Over 20 years of experience in sales has allowed him to understand the complexity of the life science market and to build lasting relationships with customers, which led to growing his company’s public presence via outreach strategies. His unique, highly successful approach to sales utilizes elements of Common Sense Selling, SPIN Selling, and The Challenger Sale. 

Stacks’ passion for science, working in biotech, pharmaceutical, and academic research industries, laid the foundation for success in life science sales. He received a BA degree in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology with a minor in Biochemistry from the University of Colorado Boulder. he recognized a niche in the market for sales professionals with a science background, which led him to pursue his current career.