VectorBuilder and MaxCyte formed a strategic partnership to co-develop a clinical-grade, next-generation nonviral gene delivery system for ex vivo cell engineering. The collaboration combines VectorBuilder’s MiniVec plasmid backbone with MaxCyte’s Flow Electroporation technology for CAR-T, CAR-NK, and iPSC-based applications. Both companies said the goal is to improve safety and manufacturability compared with conventional electroporation and lentiviral vectors, which can involve trade-offs related to viability, durability, cost, and safety risks. MiniVec is positioned as reducing reliance on antibiotic- or additive-based selection during fermentation, while Flow Electroporation uses a continuous-flow electroporation process meant to reduce cellular stress and preserve function. The partnership reflects a continued shift toward scalable, manufacturable nonviral delivery in cell therapy, with electroporation increasingly competing on throughput, consistency, and clinical translation readiness.