The Business of Biofabrication

REIG JOFRE, a leading pharmaceutical company, announced its participation in the 4D-BIOSKIN project. This initiative aims to validate and scale the production of human skin generated by a 3D bioprinter.

Addressing a Critical Global Need

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), burns result in approximately 180,000 deaths annually, with countless more individuals suffering from severe complications such as infections, prolonged hospital stays, and psychological trauma. These statistics underscore the urgent need for advanced therapies to treat severe skin injuries.

The Power of 3D Bioprinting

The core of this project is the development of human cell-based biotinks using Spain’s only certified 3D bioprinter capable of producing bioprinted products for clinical use. This technology represents the potential to enable the production of personalized skin grafts that are tailor-made for individual patients using a bioprinter.

The project’s focus is twofold: to optimize cell growth and biotink development protocols and to evaluate the feasibility of scaling up this technology for industrial and clinical applications. Over the next three years, a multidisciplinary team comprising clinicians, biomedical researchers, engineers, and pharmaceutical experts will collaborate to refine the bioprinting process, ensuring it can be translated from the lab bench to the bedside.

Figure: Researcher manipulating the certified 3D bioprinter to produce
bioprinted products for clinical use, located at the Creatio facilities,
Center for the Production and Validation of Advanced Therapies of the
University of Barcelona.

Bridging the Gap Between Research and Clinical Application

The 4D-BIOSKIN consortium, coordinated by Biorem, includes renowned institutions such as the University of Barcelona, the Foundation for Health Training and Research of the Region of Murcia, the Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, Biocrosmo, and Peaches. Together, they have secured a grant of 684,822.88 euros from the State Research Agency to drive this project forward.

REIG JOFRE’s role, as a pharmaceutical partner, is tasked with evaluating the industrial feasibility of the bioprinted skin and identifying viable business models for its integration into the pharmaceutical industry. This includes defining key metrics for success, exploring potential product applications, and establishing pathways for commercialization.

Working Towards a Clinical Trial

As part of the project, a clinical trial will be conducted at the Vall d’Hebron University Hospital and the Virgen de la Arrixaca University Clinical Hospital. Pediatric patients suffering from burns will be implanted with autologous skin substitutes derived from their own cells. This “artificial skin” will be produced using the bioprinter located at the Creatio facilities at the University of Barcelona. The trial will assess the efficacy of the implants in terms of tissue integration, scar formation, and healing time, as well as monitor safety and potential adverse effects.

Working Toward Bioprinted Skin

The 4D-BIOSKIN project represents a step toward redefining the treatment of severe skin injuries. By refining the bioprinting process, scaling production, and demonstrating the clinical viability of autologous skin substitutes, the consortium aims to pave the way for broader applications of bioprinted tissues in medicine.

With the potential to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with severe burns and skin wounds, this project not only showcases the power of innovation in healthcare but also has the potential to highlight the importance of collaboration between academia, industry, and healthcare providers.

About REIG JOFRE

Founded in 1929, REIG JOFRE is a pharmaceutical company committed to universalizing health by providing innovative solutions to people worldwide. The company focuses on three major areas: Pharmaceutical Technologies, Specialty Pharmacare, and Consumer Healthcare. With four development and production centers in Europe and a presence in Spain, France, Portugal, Belgium, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and Poland, REIG JOFRE partners with over 70 countries and employs more than 1,300 people.

In 2023, the company reported a turnover of €316 million and an EBITDA of €35 million, demonstrating robust growth and a strong market position. Listed on the continuous market of the Spanish stock exchange under the ticker RJF, REIG JOFRE.