Vita 34 Further Expands R&D Activities and Gains Important Insights in Stem Cell Research

Leipzig, June 08, 2015 – Vita 34 AG (WKN A0BL84), a pioneer in the storage of stem cells from umbilical cord blood and tissue, and a specialist in cryo-preservation, is increasing its research activities in the field of biotechnology with new research projects. The intensification of R&D activities is an important cornerstone of our corporate strategy: With new discoveries in stem cell research Vita 34 is creating the prerequisites for developing innovative new products, and thus the ability to achieve further growth.

Beginning in fiscal year 2014 Vita 34 started a development project on the cryo-preservation of autologous fatty tissue in its own research laboratory in cooperation with domestic partners. Within the scope of this project Vita 34 was able to isolate cells capable of division in fatty tissue, among them mesenchymal stem cells. Thus, an important milestone on the way to developing a process for cryo-preservation of the stem cells contained in fatty tissue has been reached. Vita 34 plans to make these anti-inflammatory mesenchymal stem cells via cryo-preservation available for repeated use, for example in the treatment of arthritis.

Dr. André Gerth, CEO of Vita 34 AG, commented: “Enormous progress has been made in biomedical research when it comes to cell-based therapies. With the development of stem cell therapies, we expect an increasing need for the safe storage of cells and tissues in the future. Vita 34 is making an important contribution towards the further development of stem cell medicine with this research project on the cryo-preservation of stem cells from fatty tissue.”

Overall, the Vita 34 research activities this year and in the coming two fiscal years is being supported by EU, German Federal and State grants amounting to nearly EUR 1.6 million. This significantly bolsters the Vita 34 research budget and multiplies the effect of own resources used.

Vita 34 gained important insights in an additional research project together with the University of Leipzig. The objective was to determine how a mesenchymal stem cell preparation from the umbilical cord needs to be prepared, such that it can be employed most effectively for treating GvHD (Graft vs. Host Disease).

In addition, Vita 34 is currently testing the effect of plant stem cells on the vitality of human stem cells. The goal of this research project is to develop a cream based on plant stem cells for improved regeneration of the skin.

“The expansion of research initiatives is a significant part of the growth strategy outlined by Vita 34. Via successful research, Vita 34 can open up the potential of establishing new products based on stem cells in the field of regenerative medicine, thereby earning additional revenue. We want to take advantage of this opportunity and have taken a broad approach in our research & development with targeted projects”, explained Dr. Gerth.

Company Profile

Vita 34 was founded in 1997 as the first private umbilical cord blood bank in Europe and, as a complete provider, offers collection logistics, preparation and storage of umbilical cord blood and cord tissue. The basis for its successful work is an outstanding position in the technological segment of cryo-preservation. Here, cells and tissue are preserved alive at some -190ºC for long periods of time, and can be used if needed in the context of medical treatment. More than 125,000 families are already taking advantage of this offering and have provided for their children with a stem cell deposit at Vita 34.