Chula and Thai Red Cross Partner to Develop Industrial-Scale Biopharmaceuticals, Beginning with Lung Cancer Drugs

Chulalongkorn University and the Thai Red Cross Society have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly drive the “Biopharmaceutical Research and Innovation Project.” The collaboration aims to produce monoclonal antibodies at an industrial scale using advanced biotechnology for the treatment of major diseases in Thailand, with an initial focus on cobra venom poisoning and lung cancer. 

The signing ceremony took place on September 4, 2025, at Chulalongkorn University’s Chamchuri 4 Building, with Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, and Mr. Tej Bunnag, Secretary General of the Thai Red Cross Society, presiding. Senior executives from both organizations attended as witnesses, along with researchers from the Faculty of Medicine, representatives from the Thai Red Cross, and relevant sectors. 

A Comprehensive Innovation Ecosystem 

The collaboration unites the distinct strengths of both institutions.

• Chulalongkorn University contributes expertise in laboratory and clinical research, including the development of prototype molecules and conducting comprehensive bioefficacy testing.
• The Thai Red Cross Society brings robust infrastructure, industrial-scale technology for producing blood components, vaccines, and biopharmaceuticals, as well as experienced personnel in international-level quality control and manufacturing standards.

Together, they form a comprehensive innovation ecosystem spanning from upstream research to downstream production and real-world application. 

Pilot Project: Targeting Cancer and Infectious Diseases 

The pilot project initiative will focus on:

• Vaccines for emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases
• Monoclonal antibodies for targeted cancer immunotherapy, with a priority on lung cancer 

Lung cancer remains one of Thailand’s leading health challenges, with limited affordable treatment options. The project is expected to reduce reliance on imported drugs, strengthen domestic pharmaceutical capacity, and improve Thailand’s long-term health security, opening the door to future innovations that align with the country’s public health needs. 

Leadership Perspectives 

Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, highlighted that Chulalongkorn University and the Thai Red Cross have a long-standing partnership. This MoU formalizes their joint commitment to a national biopharmaceutical innovation strategy that will significantly impact public health. Chulalongkorn University comprises several health-related faculties, such as Medicine, Pharmacy, Allied Health Sciences, and Nursing.

“Cancer is the leading cause of death among Thais, and our goal is to prioritize preventive-focused research,” he said. “This project on immunotherapeutic drugs for lung cancer, alongside vaccine development, represents a milestone in Thai innovation that can improve the quality of life and well-being of our people. It also reinforces our role in producing impactful research and innovation that meets global standards—and, most importantly, helps people live longer and healthier lives. 

Mr. Tej Bunnag, Secretary General of the Thai Red Cross Society, emphasized the Red Cross Society’s core mission in public health and humanitarian service.

“Access to quality medicines and vaccines is central to disease prevention and treatment,” he said. The Thai Red Cross, particularly through the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute and the National Blood Centre, has long played a key role in producing essential vaccines and biopharmaceuticals for immunity and treatment. For too long, Thailand has depended on overseas research and technology. But today, our scientists and researchers are capable of developing homegrown biopharmaceutical solutions. This partnership with Chulalongkorn University will expand knowledge, upgrade production with advanced technology, and pave the way for national pharmaceutical independence. This is especially critical in an era marked by emerging and re-emerging diseases. Most importantly, it ensures that every Thai citizen has access to safe, standardized, and affordable biopharmaceuticals. 

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