Advancements in biotechnology have opened doors to brand-new therapies for complex genetic disorders and rare diseases. These therapies rely on the delicate handling of living cells and genetic materials, which are often as fragile as they are transformative. For innovators in cell and gene therapy (CGT), overcoming manufacturing challenges and ensuring the viability of biologics throughout their lifecycle are critical to success. BioLife Solutions addresses this issue, enabling life sciences researchers to focus on discovery rather than process reinvention, combining cutting-edge technology with its strong commitment to quality and customer success. Named one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” by Seattle Business Magazine, BioLife Solutions began as a modest venture with a novel biopreservation medium and limited resources. Today, it is a trusted leader in the bioproduction industry, offering a broad portfolio of tools and services that optimize and de-risk CGT manufacturing, storage, distribution and thawing processes. The company's growth is rooted in its dedication to solving its customers' challenges while maintaining a steadfast focus on trust, integrity and innovation. Pushing the Boundaries of Research BioLife’s pioneering biopreservation offerings, CryoStor and HypoThermosol, are the gold standard in freeze and storage media. Designed to maintain the health and functionality of biological materials during preservation, these products are embedded in over 500 clinical applications—proving essential for maintaining biological viability and advancing scientific progress. In addition, its pathogen-reduced human platelet lysates, including nLiven PR hPL and Stemulate hPL, raise the bar by minimizing safety risks and boosting cell performance. This enhancement empowers researchers to push the boundaries of their work, confident that they are using sterile, batch-qualified, and rigorously tested media to prevent inconsistencies and contamination. Supporting researchers in their pursuit of excellence, BioLife has built an Evidence Library—its collection of scientific resources featuring presentations, journal articles, abstracts and posters. This expansive, searchable library allows researchers to quickly find real-world applications of its products across preclinical and clinical settings. Offering insights into cell lines, disease indications and cell processing, BioLife ensures that the scientific community has the knowledge and tools to make breakthroughs, drive progress and move confidently from research to clinical success. Enhancing Cell and Gene Therapy Processing Understanding the prevalent challenges of CGT manufacturing, BioLife excels in cell expansion and product preservation. Its subsidiary, Sexton Biotechnologies, delivers specialized cell processing tools such as Signata CT-5 and CellSeal Cryogenic Vials. These solutions protect and optimize cells during manufacturing, providing safety, flexibility and scalability.
CRO
For over 25 years, 3S Pharma has led the way in clinical research, transforming the development of life-changing therapies and ensuring faster, safer delivery to patients. A global leader in clinical development and bio-analytical services, it combines unmatched speed, steadfast regulatory excellence and innovative methodologies. This synergy empowers clients to overcome drug development challenges, fostering breakthroughs that enhance patient care and set new benchmarks in global healthcare. Acting as a fully integrated partner, it delivers a holistic approach to clinical research tailored to meet the distinct needs of each client. From crafting protocols and designing studies to managing regulatory submissions and producing final reports, it ensures flawless execution at every stage. Drawing on extensive expertise in clinical operations, safety analysis, data management and biostatistics, 3S Pharma empowers clients to confidently navigate the complexities of drug development. “We’re truly customer-centered—listening, adapting and finding creative solutions to meet our clients' unique needs in the ever-evolving clinical research space,” says Simona Rizea Savu, managing director. Combining advanced infrastructure with a client-centered philosophy, 3S Pharma specializes in early-phase clinical trials, pharmacokinetics studies, bioavailability and bioequivalence research, and transdermal patch evaluations. As one of the few European contract research organizations with integrated bio-analytical and clinical facilities, it distinguishes itself in a highly competitive field. With a proven track record of over 1,500 studies conducted across five continents and more than 30 countries—including Germany, Italy, France, Greece, Canada, the U.S. and India—3S Pharma continues to expand its global footprint while maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency. Infrastructure Excellence with Participant Safety at Its Core 3S Pharma’s state-of-the-art facilities are designed to ensure precision, scalability and efficiency in clinical research. The integrated bio-analytical laboratory utilizes advanced techniques such as HPLC-MS/MS for analyzing small and large molecules and ICP-MS for precise element determinations, including iron, zinc and strontium. Complementing this advanced laboratory is its purpose-built clinical site in Romania, featuring 74 beds organized into operational units capable of functioning independently or collaboratively. This setup allows for large-scale studies accommodating up to 300 participants, ensuring flexibility and efficiency in meeting diverse clinical trial needs. Further enhancing its capabilities, the Moldova site offers a distinct advantage with an expedited regulatory approval process, enabling clearances in as little as two weeks. This capability supports rapid, high-quality outcomes for time-sensitive clinical studies while strictly adhering to the highest industry standards. Regulatory excellence underpins every aspect of 3S Pharma’s operations. Over the past decade, it has undergone numerous inspections by European regulatory authorities, including those from France, Germany, Austria and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). The July 2024 EMA inspection reaffirmed the company’s adherence to Good Clinical Practice standards. Its bio-analytical laboratory has undergone multiple U.S. FDA inspections, with the latest in April 2023 concluded without any observations, reflecting its rigorous quality standards. Central to all its endeavors is a commitment to participant safety. From study design to execution, this priority guides every decision, forming the ethical foundation for 3S Pharma’s effective clinical research practices. .
Drug Discovery and Development
Genesis Biotechnology Group (GBG) is a consortium of vertically integrated companies dedicated to transforming drug discovery and clinical diagnostics through a unique, multidisciplinary approach. Combining expertise from diverse fields like molecular biology, bioinformatics and medicinal chemistry, the company creates novel therapeutic solutions, enhances diagnostic accuracy, and significantly improves patient outcomes. “Our mission is to enhance patients' quality of life by bridging basic science research with its implementation in the clinical laboratory,” says Eli Mordechai, CEO. In line with this vision, the company cultivates a collaborative research environment through its Genesis Research and Development Institutes (GRDI). Advancing Global Health through Comprehensive Research GRDI stands at the forefront of innovative scientific research and is committed to transforming groundbreaking discoveries into tangible solutions for preventing, diagnosing, and treating various diseases. Its therapeutic institutions, including Oncoveda, Immunoveda, the Institute of Metabolic Disorders (IMD) and the Institute for Biomarker Research (IBR), work in synergy to tackle numerous pressing global health challenges. Oncoveda is a cornerstone for GRDI’s cancer research efforts, which are dedicated to identifying novel cancer biomarkers and drug targets while translating these discoveries into clinical applications. This is complemented by the institute Immunoveda, which plays a crucial role in advancing cancer treatment by exploring the role of T lymphocytes in tumor immunotherapy. Concurrently, IMD’s drug discovery efforts are centered on fatty liver diseases, particularly non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). IBR utilizes cutting-edge technologies such as next-generation DNA sequencing to create innovative diagnostic assays that help evaluate disease progression and regression, assess treatment responses, and facilitate patient stratification. This approach holds the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes, reduce medical costs through early intervention, and contribute to a more precise understanding of various diseases. The Role of GD3 in Preclinical Drug Assessments Genesis Drug Discovery & Development (GD3) uses advanced technologies and scientific expertise to support preclinical drug discovery and development across various therapeutic areas. As part of a collaborative network, it partners with leading contract research organizations (CROs) to support drug discovery and development. These partnerships include Venenum Biodesign, New England Discovery Partners (NEDP), BioBlocks and Organochem. The firm, GBG’s collaborations extend to bioanalytical CROs like Integrated Analytical Solutions (IAS), PharmOptima, and Ingenio Diagnostics (ID). Backed by a highly skilled team, it ensures top-notch results through rigorous quality assurance and control measures, making it a vital partner for various analytical needs. .
Biomanufacturing
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
Robert Chabros, Head of Engineering Department, PolfaTarchomin S.A.
Drug Discovery and Development
Navigating Through Drug Discovery and Development
Stefano Biondi, VP of Pre-Clinical, Recordati S.p.A [BIT: REC]
Women's Health
Will AI affect my jobs and the CRO business?
Stefano Ferrara, Director, Clinical Science, BeiGene
Pharma Wholesale and Distribution
Unlocking Efficiency By Implementing Ai In Pharma Manufacturing
Veronique Kodjo, EVP Global Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Quality, Ceva Santé Animale
Drug Discovery and Development
Strengthening Patient Centricity In Drug Development: The New Evolution In Pharma
Liselotte Hyveled, Chief Patient Officer, Board member, Novo Nordisk
IN MY OPINION
Clinical-Stage Biopharmaceutical Companies
Harnessing The Potential Of Cros
Yuliya Ilieva, Head of Clinical Research, Engelhard
LAST WORD
Drug Discovery and Development
Implementing Dose-Exposure-Response Information and Modern Tools in Drug Discovery?
Riikka Oksala, Director, Head of Integrated DMPK & Safety, R&D, Orion
IN FOCUS
The Strategic Role Of Contract Research Organisations In Europe
Contract Research Organisations (CROs) have become integral to the life sciences industry, particularly in Europe,
EDITORIAL
The Future of Drug Discovery and Bioproduction
AI and machine learning accelerate drug discovery by analysing vast datasets, predicting drug-target interactions and quickly identifying promising candidates. Automation and robotics streamline laboratory workflows, reducing human error and preclinical research costs. CROs leverage data analytics and real-world evidence to optimise clinical trials, enhance patient recruitment and improve regulatory decisions. Decentralised trials, supported by wearable technology and remote monitoring, further increase accessibility and reduce logistical challenges.
In bioproduction, innovations in single-use bioreactors, continuous processing and 3D bioprinting enable scalable, cost-effective manufacturing of biologics, cell and gene therapies and personalised medicine. Advances in synthetic biology and CRISPR improve the precision of complex biologic production, while sustainable biomanufacturing practices minimise waste and energy use.
These breakthroughs are accelerating drug development and transforming healthcare. Integrating AI, advanced bioproduction and next-generation CRO services make personalised medicine, regenerative therapies and precision oncology more accessible.
In this issue of Life Sciences Review Europe, we spotlight the companies driving this transformation. From pioneering CROs to innovators in bioproduction and drug discovery, these industry leaders are pushing the boundaries of what is possible and shaping a new era of biomedical advancements.
We also feature thought leadership from experts at the forefront of medical technology. Liselotte Hyveled, chief patient officer and board member at Novo Nordisk highlights the pharmaceutical industry’s shift toward patient-centric drug development. She emphasises how prioritising patient needs enhances treatment outcomes, improves compliance and accelerates innovation. Additionally, Yuliya Ilieva, head of clinical research at Engelhard, discusses how CROs enhance efficiency, reduce costs and provide specialised expertise. She shares Engelhard’s experience leveraging partnerships to streamline preclinical research, optimise clinical trials and improve data management.
As the life sciences industry continues to evolve, the convergence of digital innovation, biotechnology and engineering is redefining what’s possible in biomedical science. We hope this edition sparks further exploration into the vast potential of life sciences. Let us know your thoughts!


