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Programmatic Asset
PROVEN INTELLIGENCE IN PRECLINICAL NHP SUPPLY CHAIN
Programmatic Asset
CELL & GENE | RNA | BIOLOGICS
Executive Summary
Selecting the appropriate nonhuman primate (NHP) model is a foundational decision in the preclinical development of next-generation therapeutics. A fragmented supply chain introduces significant timeline and animal cohort variability risks. Through a strategic integration with the Bioculture Group, Franklin Biolabs provides a secured, integrated supply of Mauritian origin SPF cynomolgus macaques, supported by U.S.-based quarantine services. This approach ensures cohort consistency for longitudinal in-life studies and accelerates study initiation for sponsors targeting global regulatory submissions under ICH guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are purpose-bred NHP models from a single source important for preclinical programs?
Using purpose-bred nonhuman primates from a single, consistent source minimizes genetic and physiological variability between study animals. This reduction in variability allows for the creation of more homogenous study cohorts, which is foundational for reproducible in-life study phases. It ensures that observations are more likely attributable to the therapeutic candidate rather than baseline differences between animals.
Q: How does an integrated supply chain for cynomolgus macaques reduce program risk for US-based biotech sponsors?
An integrated supply chain, which includes dedicated breeding colonies, U.S.-based quarantine, and regulatory-compliant import clearance, de-risks preclinical programs by guaranteeing access to well-characterized NHP models. This eliminates the timeline delays and sourcing uncertainties common with brokered or multi-vendor approaches, securing a pivotal component of the development pathway.
Q: What is the value of using clinically relevant NHP models for novel therapeutic platforms?
Employing NHP models that accurately recapitulate aspects of human disease or physiology is fundamental for translational success. The ability to induce specific conditions, such as the ocular neovascularization model developed with AAV2 vectors (PMID: 15793254), provides a robust platform for in-life observation and characterization within a biologically relevant system.
The translational path for next-generation therapeutics requires preclinical models that offer the highest fidelity to human biology. For many AAV, RNA, and cell-based programs, the nonhuman primate represents the most predictive system for in-life observation prior to first-in-human studies.
Mitigating Supply Chain Fragmentation
Historically, securing NHP models involved a fragmented, multi-vendor process that introduced significant program risk. Sponsors faced unpredictable timelines, inconsistent animal health profiles, and a lack of longitudinal cohort continuity. This model is incompatible with the accelerated development timelines required for novel therapeutics. Our strategic integration with the Bioculture Group directly addresses these challenges.
This integration provides a secure and transparent supply of Mauritian origin SPF cynomolgus macaques. Key components of this model include:
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Full Traceability: Complete oversight from the Mauritian breeding facilities to our >100,000 sq ft preclinical facility.
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U.S.-Based Quarantine: All animals undergo quarantine and conditioning at U.S.-based facilities, ensuring full compliance with regulatory import requirements and animal welfare standards.
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Reduced Variability: A single-source, purpose-bred colony minimizes the biological variability that can confound study results and require larger animal cohorts.
This supply chain security is a core component of our ability to move therapeutic candidates to IND within an 18-24 month timeline, a track record established by our core scientific team prior to the formal launch of Franklin Biolabs in 2024.
Consistent Models for In-Life Program Integrity
A secured supply chain enables a more robust preclinical strategy. Consistent animal models are a prerequisite for the integrity of any in-life study phase. Research into AAV vector interactions within NHP tissues highlights the complexity of these biological systems (PMID: 20113166). The use of genetically and environmentally consistent NHP cohorts is necessary to minimize confounding variables during in-life observation.
By providing well-characterized cohorts, we ensure that the biological system for the in-life study phase is as uniform as possible. This rigorous approach to preclinical model sourcing is part of the foundation that supports our work with leading innovators, including our leading industry partners. Our comprehensive Preclinical and Translational Services are designed to support the robust, GxP-compliant in-life studies required for successful submissions to the FDA and other global regulatory bodies.
Commitment to Animal Welfare
Our program operates under the highest ethical standards for animal welfare, with AAALAC International accreditation and adherence to USDA regulations. We are committed to the 3Rs Principle (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement), employing enhanced housing conditions and cognitive enrichment programs to support the physiological and psychological well-being of all animals.
Featured Video: DIVERSIFYING THE VALUE CHAIN
This video outlines the evolution of the preclinical supply chain and the infrastructure required to support next-generation therapeutics.
This content is for informational purposes. For guidance specific to your therapeutic program, please contact our team for a consultation.