GC Green Cross Cell Registers Patent for Activated Lymphocyte Manufacturing Method: "Strengthening Cell Therapy Technology"

[Asia Economy, reporter Yoo Hyunseok] GC Green Cross Cell, a company specializing in cell therapy, announced on July 21 that it has completed domestic patent registration for activated lymphocytes containing cytokine-induced killer cells (CIK) and their manufacturing method.

The immune cell therapy composition developed with the manufacturing method described in this patent contains cytokine-induced killer cells (CIK) with high tumor-killing ability and proliferation rate, raising expectations for a cell therapy with strong anticancer effects.

Cancer cells survive by evading immune cells in the body, often by modifying or removing major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigen proteins so that immune cells cannot recognize them. However, CIK cells can recognize and eliminate cancer cells in a manner that is not restricted by MHC.

Cancer cells express MIC (MHC class I polypeptide-related sequence)-A and MIC-B on their surface. CIK cells use a molecule called NKG2D to recognize MIC-A and MIC-B, and then secrete perforin and granzyme to induce apoptosis in cancer cells, thereby eliminating them.

Lee Deukjoo, CEO of GC Green Cross Cell, stated, "This is our third patent registration in 2020 alone, and it required years of research, data preparation, and a lengthy registration process. With this, GC Green Cross Cell has strengthened its cell therapy technology and secured global competitiveness."

Recently, GC Green Cross Cell established state-of-the-art cGMP-level facilities and production systems optimized for cell therapy production in Yongin, and introduced advanced computerized systems for enhanced management and production. The company plans to become a global leader in comprehensive immuno-oncology by operating the largest cell therapy manufacturing facility in Korea that meets global standards.