Gene Therapy Pioneer Jim Wilson Launches Franklin Biolabs, Expanding Genetic Medicine Services

Launch of Franklin Biolabs:
Jim Wilson, a pioneer in gene therapy, has launched Franklin Biolabs, a genetic medicines contract research organization (CRO) that offers comprehensive solutions for gene therapy services and production.

Transition from UPenn:
Wilson is stepping down as Director of the Gene Therapy Program at the University of Pennsylvania to dedicate his full attention to Franklin Biolabs and another new company, GEMMA Biotherapeutics.

GEMMA Biotherapeutics:
GEMMA Biotherapeutics will focus on developing accessible, lower-cost gene therapies for rare diseases, with Wilson serving as CEO.

Franklin Biolabs Services:
Franklin Biolabs will provide genetic medicine services, including discovery, development, and distribution, aiming to accelerate the delivery of gene therapies to patients.

Background and Impact:
Wilson has been a major figure in gene therapy for decades, contributing significantly to the development of safer methods for delivering genes into the body, including the use of adeno-associated viruses (AAVs).

Previous Controversies:
Wilson faced scrutiny in 1999 after a gene therapy trial led to the death of 18-year-old Jesse Gelsinger, but he continued to pursue gene therapy research, leading to several FDA-approved treatments.

Future Plans:
The new companies aim to translate research done at the Gene Therapy Program into new therapeutic treatments, with plans to hire additional roles in the next 18+ months.