The X Factor: What is GxP and What Training is Required?
The eighth edition FACT-JACIE International Standards for Hematopoietic Cellular Therapy Product Collection, Processing, and Administration requires that physicians and staff have annual training in current GxP appropriate to the processes performed in accordance with Applicable Law. (See Standards CM3.3.4, C4.4.2.5, and D4.4.2.5).
What is GxP?
The Standards define GxP as, “Good practice following various quality standards and regulations. The “x” is variable, with further definition of good practices defined by different Applicable Law and industry standards. The type of work that is being performed will define which GxPs should be followed.”
Different facilities will follow different GxPs based on the activities they perform. These may include, but are not limited to, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Good Tissue Practices (GTPs), Good Documentation Practices (GDPs), Good Clinical Practices (GMPs), and Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs).
What GxPs require annual training per the Standards?
FACT requires training in all GxPs that are required by law. Accredited facilities must determine which GxPs apply to the activities they perform and for the types of cellular therapy products for which the cells will be used. This includes an assessment of all activities and determination of which GxPs are required by law for each of those activities. Facilities must document this assessment so 1) the program has a defined list of GxPs that require training and 2) inspectors can verify appropriate training is performed.
All Apheresis Collection and Processing Facilities will have activities applicable to GTPs and GDPs. All Marrow Collection Facilities will have activities applicable to GDPs, but may also perform activities related to GTPs. Collection and Processing Facilities may also need to follow GMPs, GCPs, or GLPs. The extent and level of GMPs implemented is dependent on the type of manufacturing that is performed (e.g., manufacturing of allogeneic minimally manipulated HPC cellular therapy products verses investigational and licensed cellular therapy products).
How much training is required each year?
Comprehensive training on every aspect of GxPs each year is not expected; rather, there must annually be some training based on a GxP topic.
Many of the procedures performed by personnel already require training in GxPs to perform the work; therefore, GxP training is not required to be separate. However, documentation must provide evidence that the GxPs were included. For example, training in environmental control could include an overview of GTPs or GMPs, the relevant requirements based on the work to be performed, and the specific tasks performed by personnel.
Download the Eighth Edition FACT-JACIE Hematopoietic Cellular Therapy Standards
Download the Eighth Edition FACT-JACIE Hematopoietic Cellular Therapy Accreditation Manual
