Cell culture is 'next big pharmaceutical trend'

GBI Research is predicting strong growth in the global cell culture market thanks to increasing demand for biologics and stem cell therapies

Cell culture is fast becoming the next big trend in the pharmaceutical industry, according to a new report from GBI Research.

Projected figures suggest that the global cell culture market will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.3 per cent between 2011 and 2018, from $3.4 billion in 2011 to $6.3 billion in 2018.

The business intelligence firm observed that laboratories are in a "rush to meet demand for stem cell and biologics", the manufacturing of which requires cell culture methods.

These techniques involve the isolation of cells, which are then grown in an artificial, controlled environment.
GBI Research pointed out that biopharmaceuticals are less toxic and more effective than small molecule drugs and are "attracting the focus of many major companies".

"The development and manufacturing of these biological products is directly related to the growing demand for cell culture," the company claimed.

Referring to stem cell research, GBI Research argued that this growing field has "enormous potential" for cell culture, which ensures the production of highly purified stem cells and their progeny.

Stem cell therapies represent a "potential goldmine", as they treat the cause of a disease, whereas convention therapies merely manage its symptoms, the company added.