#India #gene therapy #Caring Cross #Amrita Research #Faridabad

A New Era for Advanced Therapies in India

In a groundbreaking move, Caring Cross, a non-profit organization from the United States, has announced a formal partnership with Amrita Research Center Delhi (ARCD) and Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, a premier research-intensive university in India. This collaboration aims to facilitate the creation and distribution of affordable cell and gene therapies (CGT) targeted at underserved populations across India, focusing on serious health conditions such as Sickle Cell Disease, Thalassemia, and various types of cancer.

A Changing Landscape for Accessibility

For far too long, advanced therapies, particularly CGTs, have been viewed as a luxury due to their extraordinarily high costs. Such barriers have prevented those in need from accessing these potentially life-saving treatments. With an extensive population of 1.4 billion people, India harbors a significant burden of hereditary diseases and cancers that disproportionately affects lower-income groups and historically marginalized communities. The partnership between Caring Cross and the ARCD is set to change this landscape.

Focus on Decentralized Manufacturing

One of the critical innovations brought forth by this collaboration is the development of decentralized advanced manufacturing units. This initiative intends to significantly reduce the financial burden of providing curative therapies at the point of care. Among the innovations to be explored are TriCAR-T cell therapies aimed at combating Leukemia and Lymphoma, along with next-generation CGT platforms that prioritize equitable access for all patients, regardless of their socio-economic status.

Dr. Boro Dropulić, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Caring Cross, emphasized the mission behind this collaboration, stating, "Our goal is to dismantle the financial barriers to CAR-T and stem cell therapies, ensuring that these life-saving treatments are accessible to all, especially marginalized patients."

Transforming Hope into Reality

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, inspired by the humanitarian vision of Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma), places compassion-driven innovation at the core of its mission. The ARCD integrates basic science, molecular biology, and translational research with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facilities—enabling rapid transitions from laboratory breakthroughs to actual patient treatments.

Sickle Cell Disease and Thalassemia continue to be significant public health challenges in India, particularly affecting economically disadvantaged populations. Prof. Amit Kumar Dinda, Director of the ARCD, stated, "By collaborating with Caring Cross, we hope to develop and offer CGT solutions at a price that provides true accessibility. This partnership has the potential to create a model for equitable advanced therapy solutions, not just in India, but globally."

Aligning with National Health Priorities

This partnership also supports India's national health objectives, as Sickle Cell Disease is recognized as a major concern by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. By expanding affordable, curative treatment options, the partnership aims to align with national strategies designed to alleviate disease burdens and improve health equity across various communities.

About Caring Cross

Caring Cross is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to accelerating the development of advanced medical treatments and ensuring that effective therapies are available to everyone. To achieve its mission, the organization develops technologies and therapeutic candidates that enhance the accessibility, affordability, and applicability of advanced medicines such as CAR-T therapy and stem cell gene therapy.

About Amrita Research Center Delhi (ARCD)

Located in Faridabad, the ARCD functions as a translational research institute, merging fundamental, molecular, and preclinical research with a comprehensive GMP manufacturing facility. Their mission focuses on developing affordable therapeutic technologies to meet public health needs effectively.

For those seeking more information about Caring Cross and its endeavors, visit Caring Cross, or learn more about the ARCD and Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham.