The Cell Therapy Unit (CTU) within the NIHR King's Clinical Research Facility (CRF) is a complex and sophisticated Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Unit for the manufacture of human cell and gene-based therapies. It is built to the exacting standards required to meet the licensing requirements of the MHRA, HTA and JACIE.
This GMP facility with three process suites contains:
- Grade B suite with closed processing in 1 Grade A isolator: Hepatocytes and Islets cell isolation
- Grade D suite with closed processing in 3 Grade A isolators: Cell Therapy (BMT & MSC)
- Grade D suite with closed processing in 2 Grade A isolators: Cell & Gene Therapy
- Additional controlled rate freezer room for cell freezing
- Controlled non-classified area comprising cryostore (sited on Ground floor), cold pack, prep and waste treatment
Common area & sample handling (outside CTU):
- QC lab
- Changing rooms
- Meeting room
- Write up room/hot desk area
- Staff refreshment room
- GMP Storage Facility
CTU Director: Professor Anil Dhawan
CTU Quality Director: Penny Bligh
Facility Manager: Jonathan Foster
Senior Lab Technician: Laura Tolley
Lab Technician: Ayesha Khatun