Non-Sterile is Non-Sterile: A Reality Check on Microbial Control Expectations

This week, the FDA opened applications for its Expedited IND Pilot, quality experts presented at the PDA/FDA Joint Regulatory Conference, and Hovione expanded its spray drying capacity.

Andrea K. Kerrigan, FDA, outlines how validation, data integrity, and QRM determine whether digital tools and AI strengthen or undermine CGMP compliance.

PDA/FDA 2026 session maps the GMP audit lifecycle, root cause to CAPA closure, plus a local vs. above-site decision framework and two case studies.

Lori Dingledine, QC Director Microbiological Control and GTIC Operations at Genentech, provided input on the regulations surrounding raw material manufacturing and use for ATMPs in a presentation at the 2026 PDA/FDA Joint Regulatory Conference.

AI can turn medical device risk management into a continuous signal.

On PharmTech.com this week, coverage of upcoming events continued, experts continued to discuss the use of AI in pharma, and validation in oral solid dosage product production was emphasized.

This article explores the historical use of silicone oil in the performance of primary drug product packaging; design of experiment test results for selection of the cleaning agent and CCPs; assessment of visible residue limits and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy surface analysis; and setting health-based exposure limits for silicone oil using a non-uniform distribution model, and a previously published permitted daily exposure.

In commercial tablet or capsule operations, validation helps protect the site’s ability to produce, release, and supply product without repeated disruption. This article discusses validation as a technical control system that supports manufacturing continuity.