Bringing cell and gene therapies from research into clinical practice
The Munich Center for Cell and Gene Therapy (MCCG) has been formally established at LMU University Hospital, bringing together five founding institutions to strengthen the clinical application and further development of innovative cell and gene therapies. The Institut für Klinische Pharmakologie is one of the founding members, alongside the Medical Clinic and Polyclinic III, the Department of Transfusion Medicine, Cell Therapeutics and Hemostaseology, the Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, and the Department of Ophthalmology.
At its inaugural meeting, Prof. Dr. Marion Subklewe was elected Head of the Centre. Prof. Dr. Stylianos Michalakis was appointed Deputy Head, Prof. Dr. Sebastian Kobold, Director of the Institut für Klinische Pharmakologie, Coordinator, and Prof. Dr. Andreas Humpe Quality Management Officer.
A multidisciplinary centre for advanced therapies
Cell and gene therapies offer new treatment possibilities for cancer, autoimmune disorders, neurological conditions and inherited diseases. Their successful implementation requires close collaboration across clinical disciplines and expertise in manufacturing, regulatory processes, clinical trials, toxicity management and long-term patient follow-up.
The MCCG brings together this expertise at LMU University Hospital, creating a platform that connects clinical care with laboratory research and clinical development. The centre aims to provide patients with structured, safe and timely access to innovative cell and gene therapies while supporting their continued development and evaluation.
From research to treatment
LMU University Hospital has been treating patients with CAR T-cell therapies since 2019. Further advances include gene therapies for beta-thalassaemia and sickle cell disease, with treatment planned from autumn 2026. The site also has internationally recognised expertise in research into treatment-associated toxicities, with findings contributing to national and international clinical guidelines.
Beyond patient care, the MCCG will serve as a hub for academic research groups, hospitals, biotechnology companies and industry partners seeking to translate promising approaches into clinical applications. The centre supports both investigator-initiated and industry-sponsored clinical trials.
Embedded in Munich's strong research and biotechnology ecosystem and connected to networks including the Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF) and the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), the MCCG combines basic research, clinical expertise and translational development.
Through this collaboration, the Institut für Klinische Pharmakologie and its partner institutions aim to help advance the safe, precise and effective delivery of cell and gene therapies to patients.
