Cell therapies specialist Fibrocell Science and Chinese firm Hefei Meifu Bio-Tech are establishing a joint venture called Fibrocell Science Asia to develop and market autologous fibroblast therapies in Asia (excluding Japan). Under the terms of the deal, Fibrocell will provide access to its relevant IP, clinical data, and manufacturing processes. Meifu will shoulder all costs associated with construction and operation of a cGMP manufacturing facility in Hefei along with commercialization and ongoing operational and R&D expenses.
“In Asia the health and beauty markets are expanding rapidly, which we believe will offer significant opportunity for autologous cellular therapy as a natural and personalized product,” comments Zhou Tau, chairman of the new joint venture.
Fibrocell is focused on the development of autologous fibroblast regenerative therapies for both medical and aesthetic indications. The firm’s lead product, for the treatment of moderate to severe nasolabial fold wrinkles, is currently undergoing BLA review by FDA. Regenerative cell products for periodontal applications and for the treatment of acne scars and restrictive burn scars are currently in Phase II development.
Meifu develops, manufactures, and distributes pharmaceutical anticancer intermediates and APIs along with generic drugs including paclitaxel and docetaxel.