The UK’s cell and gene therapy sector is experiencing rapid growth, poised to be a global leader in advanced medical therapies. With large investments and clinical progress, the sector shows amazing potential in reshaping healthcare outcomes. A recent review by the Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult (CGT Catapult) emphasises the critical stage the industry is in, with proof of concept established through successful therapies such as CAR-T.
“The UK can take the lead in harnessing these therapies to deliver life-changing benefits to patients and economic growth to the nation,”
said Matthew Durdy, CEO of CGT Catapult.
The sector has seen a resurgence in confidence, with investment climbing from £0.77 billion in 2023 to £0.97 billion by March 2024. This financial boost is accompanied by the UK overtaking Europe in clinical trials, with 84 drugs in development.
“The UK’s leadership in cell and gene therapy is a testament to our unwavering dedication to patient-centric advancements that rewrite the boundaries of healthcare,”
remarked Steve Bates, CEO of the UK BioIndustry Association (BIA).
Manufacturing capacity has also surged, with the country now hosting 29 advanced facilities, ensuring that the infrastructure supports the growing demand. The CGT Catapult reports a 14% increase in manufacturing space, driven by expansion in regions such as Scotland and northern England.
However, challenges remain, especially in scaling production and addressing the growing need for a skilled workforce. To tackle this, the CGT Catapult has started apprenticeships aimed at producing a skilled labour pool to support the burgeoning sector.
“We continue to see acceleration and expansion across the ATMP manufacturing ecosystem, with more therapies becoming closer to commercialization,” Durdy.
Looking ahead, the UK’s position as a leader in cell and gene therapy is promising, but sustained growth will require continued investment and collaboration. These advancements are not only positioned to transform patient care but also to cement the UK as a hub for cutting-edge biotechnological innovation.
