Astellas Pharma Inc. and Yaskawa Electric Corporation have agreed to establish a joint venture for the development of a cell therapy product manufacturing platform utilizing the dual-arm robot “Maholo.” In addition, the joint venture aims to offer platform access to startups and academic institutions, fostering collaboration and innovation in the field of cell therapy.

The joint venture will leverage Astellas’ expertise in R&D and manufacturing for cell therapy and the dual arm robot “Maholo,” developed by Yaskawa’s subsidiary, Robotic Biology Institute. By integrating advanced technologies into its cell therapy expertise, Astellas aims to develop potentially transformative cell therapy for patients with limited or no treatment options. Yaskawa aims to expand the use cases of robots in the field of cell therapy beyond the existing life science field.

The closing and establishment of the joint venture company are subject to certain closing conditions, including receipt of required regulatory approvals.

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