Industry Report: Developments in Regenerative Medicine and Biotechnology Between July 1, 2009, and August 31, 2009

Between July 1, 2009, and August 31, 2009, the regenerative medicine and biotechnology industry saw significant business developments, including collaborations, licensing agreements, and clinical trials. Cellular Dynamics International and Roche expanded their agreement to test drug candidates, while DARA BioSciences and America Stem Cell partnered to improve stem cell transplants. Cryo-Cell, Fate Therapeutics, and Millipore entered licensing agreements for various stem cell technologies. BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics and BioLife Solutions made manufacturing and marketing agreements, respectively. Novartis acquired stem cell technology from Opexa with potential payments over $50 million. The Alliance for Regenerative Medicine was launched, and Invitrogen introduced an online cell biology resource. CellThera and General Dynamics reported advancements in stem cell gene activation and medical storage. Additionally, Bioheart acquired patents, Living Cell Technologies began a clinical trial for Type 1 diabetes, TiGenix received a positive opinion for its knee cartilage repair product, Geron Corporation's IND was on hold by the FDA, Athersys Inc. sought commercial partners, BioTime, Inc. improved its financial position, the Human Stem Cell Institute planned an IPO, International Stem Cell Corporation secured a $5 million investment, and Angioblast Systems Inc. completed financing for a new clinical application.