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Print Edition StoriesThursday, March 12, 2009
ACT readies for IND of stem-cell-based eye therapy
By Marc Songini
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Worcester-based regenerative medicine company Advanced Cell Technology Inc. is ready to file an independent new drug application for its stem-cell-based program for treating retinal diseases.
Advanced Cell (OTC: ACTC ) reports that it is finalizing preparations to file the IND in the second half of 2009 with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It is necessary to file the IND before the company can proceed with its Phase 1 and Phase 2 clinical trials for retinal pigment epithelium. Advanced Cell estimated there are some 200 different retinal diseases that may be impacted by stem cell treatment, including macular degeneration, a $28 billion dollar market.
The announcement comes just after President Barack Obama issued an executive order that authorizes increased federal funding for research using embryonic stem cells. However, Advanced Cell pointed out in its release that its technology produces stem cell lines without destroying the embryo.
This week, Advanced cell also announced it had secured $5 million in funding to file an IND application. Earlier this month, Advanced Cell reported it had also brought in $400,000, in part from Korean biotech CHA Biotech Co. Ltd. The Korean company was making a final payment for its recently formed international joint venture with Advanced Cell, which is called Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine International.
The two companies formed the Worcester-based joint venture in December. Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine intends to use Advanced Cell’s hemangioblast cell technology to develop human blood cells.
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