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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DOST, Pharma GalenX launches first bioprinting lab in Western Visayas

DOST, Pharma GalenX launches first bioprinting lab in Western Visayas

Published Jul 20, 2023 09:06 am
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), together with Pharma GalenX Innovations, Inc. has unveiled its groundbreaking bioprinting laboratory, the first in the region, seeking to enable the development of a human skin equivalent using 3D bioprinting technology for studies involving topical formulations. *(Photo courtesy of DOST-PCHRD)*
According to DOST, this marks a significant milestone in the advancement of science and technology in health services. The bioprinting laboratory is the product of the DOST’s  grant under the Business Innovation through S&T for Industry (BIST) Program, a sub-component of the Science for Change Program for Pharma GalenX’s research study entitled, “Three-Dimensional Bioprinted Human Skin Equivalent for In Vitro Biocompatibility Studies of Topical Formulations.” The laboratory comes equipped with the latest advancements in 3D bioprinting technology such as a 3D bioprinter, ultra-low temperature freezer, microplate reader, CO2 incubators, inverted microscope, compound microscope with fluorescence observation, and more. DOST said that it will also open new opportunities for local talents and enhance the research capacity and competitiveness of Iloilo City in the fields of biotechnology and tissue engineering. Moreover, the project will also pave the way for the establishment of an in vitro biocompatibility testing facility, the first of its kind in Region VI, providing academic and research institutions with accessible services that will enable them to reduce costs associated with third-party laboratory analysis and expedite product development timelines. "The establishment of Pharma GalenX's bioprinting laboratory is a testament to the successful synergy between industry and government in advancing cutting-edge research in the Philippines," stated DOST Secretary Renato Solidum, Jr. "Through our Science for Change Program, we are proud to support Pharma GalenX's research study, which has culminated in the establishment of this cutting-edge bioprinting laboratory. We believe this facility will pave the way for groundbreaking advancements in regenerative medicine," he added. The Pharma GalenX Innovations, Inc. will also launch its highly anticipated product on the same date at Diversion 21 Hotel in Iloilo City, providing an opportunity for attendees to witness the culmination of the company's innovative research and development efforts. The event and ribbon-cutting ceremony featured DOST officials' lectures and an exclusive bioprinting laboratory tour. Experts in the field, industry professionals, government representatives, and members of the media attended the event witnessing firsthand the potential impact of this technology on healthcare. “The BIST program strengthens the R&D capabilities of our local companies and spurs innovation, invention, and progress. R&D outputs drive profits and may be used as a tool in creating socially responsible initiatives, like in this case, creating ways to prevent animal testing,”  DOST Undersecretary for R&D Leah J. Buendia said. Serving as the monitoring agency of Pharma GalenX’s DOST grant, the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD), expressed its excitement about the upcoming launch. "The establishment of Pharma GalenX's bioprinting laboratory is a significant milestone in the field of regenerative medicine in the Philippines. We are honored to be part of this endeavor, and we look forward to the transformative impact it will have on healthcare," said DOST-PCHRD Executive Director Jaime Montoya. The Pharma GalenX Innovations, Inc. is a pioneering biotechnology company committed to transforming healthcare through innovation. By harnessing cutting-edge technologies such as bioprinting, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine, the company focuses on developing advanced therapeutics and personalized medicine solutions.

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Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD) DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. Department of Science and Technology (DOST) department of science and technology (DOST) DOST-PCHRD
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