General BioTech Selects Medivative as Development Partner for Medical Devices for Stem Cell Transplants

February 6, 2009

General BioTechnology has selected Medivative to collaborate in the development of two medical devices which will minimize the current hazards associated with stem cell transplants.

The first, a Cell Washing Device, is designed to remove harmful preservatives from frozen stem cells. The second device provides sterile storage for cryopreserved cells. Medivative is playing a critical role in the development and commercialization for these advanced medical devices.

“When launching a technically sophisticated medical product, it is crucial to select a partner with the ability and expertise required for biological sciences. Medivative stands out as an industry leader with a proven track record of success in medical device manufacturing,” said Erik Woods, CEO of General BioTech.

The new Cell Washing Device is a much welcomed technology for anyone in need of a stem cell transplant, a procedure which is often recommended for cancer patients due to the negative effects of chemotherapy and radiation treatments. When a patient’s bone marrow stops producing new blood cells, a stem cell transplant can take over for the dysfunctional marrow.

Patients preparing to undergo a stem cell transplant must use cells that have been frozen, or cryopreserved. Unfortunately, the best way to preserve those cells is using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), which until this point, has been nearly impossible to remove without losing a significant amount of stem cells or contaminating them. The side effects of DMSO include fever, nausea, violent cramping, and in very rare cases, death. The new Cell Washing Device filters out DSMO from thawed stem cells, thus reducing those negative side effects.

A second innovation, the Cell Cryopreservation Device, also helps to improve the quality of cells used in stem cell transplants. Medivative has partnered with General BioTech and its affiliate, Vialco, to develop and manufacture a first-of-its-kind packaging system for cryopreserved cells. The system includes an efficient storage container and allows frozen stem cells to be delivered and removed in a sterile manner, keeping them completely sealed at a temperature of about -196°C.

“We are very excited to be helping General BioTech to develop such needed medical devices,” said Bryan Bowman, president of Indianapolis-based Medivative. “These innovations are sure to positively impact the lives of many people recovering from cancer.”