Athersys, Inc , a cell therapy and regenerative medicine company developing MultiStem for critical care indications, announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office has granted the Company a new patent for its novel cryogenic storage system, the Secure Integrated Freezer Unit . This U.S. Patent No. 11,566,834, titled “Apparatus and Method for Cryostorage and Manipulation of a Plurality of Container Units,” adds to the Company’s existing IP portfolio and is an important milestone.
“This is the first patent of its kind for Athersys,” stated Maia Hansen, Chief Operating Officer. “This patent is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team over several years and protects the innovative technology we’ve developed to improve storage and handling of cryogenic products in the life sciences.”
SIFU is a unique, user-friendly cryogenic storage device designed for the hospital setting and requires no liquid nitrogen. It simplifies the cryogenic logistics process, providing 24/7 access to therapies in a limited footprint and with controlled access. Following the introduction of SIFU as a concept at the Company’s investor day event in 2019, Athersys has steadily progressed development of functional units. Recently, the Company presented this technology at several conferences and received interest from clinicians and other cell and gene companies who recognize the unmet need.
Daniel Camardo, Chief Executive Officer, added, “We’re excited to receive a patent for SIFU as we explore commercial licensing with companies that are better suited to bring this technology to market. While the SIFU conversations are ongoing, we remain focused on advancing our cell therapy product MultiStem in our phase III trial for the treatment of ischemic stroke.”
SOURCE: Businesswire