On November 3, 2025 Matica Biotechnology, Inc. ("Matica Bio"), a leading viral vector CDMO specializing in advanced therapies, reported a strategic partnership with Calidi Biotherapeutics, Inc. ("Calidi"), a clinical-stage immuno-oncology company developing next-generation oncolytic virus-based therapies. Under the agreement, Matica Bio will provide analytical development (AD), process development (PD), and GMP manufacturing to support the IND submission for CLD-401, the first lead from Calidi’s RedTail platform a groundbreaking approach to genetic medicines. CLD-401 is a tumor-tropic oncolytic virus designed to home to metastatic sites after systemic administration, replicate only in tumors cells, induce an immune priming event at the tumor site, and express high levels of IL-15 superagonist in the tumor microenvironment, a potent cytokine that induces NK and T-cell responses to the tumor.
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This collaboration reinforces Matica Bio’s growing reputation as one of the few CDMOs globally with proven, end-to-end capabilities, especially in oncolytic virus manufacturing. The company has successfully executed multiple oncolytic virus programs at its state-of-the-art, purpose-built GMP facility in College Station, Texas—designed specifically to support complex viral vector modalities.
"Matica Bio has become a sought-after partner especially in the oncolytic virus space because of our technical expertise, regulatory readiness, and track record of delivering seamless development-to-GMP manufacturing programs," said Paul Kim, CEO of Matica Bio. "We’re excited to work with Calidi on this breakthrough program and continue advancing next-gen cancer immunotherapies."
Calidi’s CLD-401 is part of its differentiated RedTail platform. RedTail utilizes an engineered form of extracellular enveloped vaccinia virus that is resistant to immune clearance, can be administered systemically with tropism for metastatic sites, and can deliver genetic medicine payloads to the tumor microenvironment. CLD-401 has potent oncolytic and immune priming effects and also specifically delivers IL-15 superagonist at high levels to the tumor microenvironment.
"Matica Bio stood out as the clear CDMO of choice for Calidi project due to their deep experience with viral vector and their ability to handle complex viral programs with precision," said Eric Poma, CEO of Calidi Biotherapeutics. "The team and facility give us full confidence as we prepare for IND filing and clinical advancement."
With an increasing number of biotechs developing virotherapies, the demand for CDMOs capable of managing these highly specialized programs is growing. Matica Bio’s flexible manufacturing model, integrated process and analytical development, and deep viral vector expertise—including AAV, LVV, and oncolytic viruses—make it a preferred partner for innovative CGT developers worldwide.
(Press release, Calidi Biotherapeutics, NOV 3, 2025, View Source [SID1234659301])