SanBio, Inc., a scientific leader in regenerative medicine for neurological disorders, has announced that it has been awarded a $20 million grant from the California Institute of Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) in support of its Phase 2b clinical trial for the treatment of chronic stroke (ACTIsSIMA), jointly sponsored with Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc.

CIRM is an agency of the State of California formed to accelerate the progress of regenerative medicine through a highly competitive grant program. Prospective grants are evaluated by an independent panel of the nation's top experts in regenerative medicine, as well as medical authorities on neurological disorders. The evaluation of this stroke program received CIRM's highest ranking “1”.

“We welcome CIRM's support for this next phase of our clinical development,” said Dr. Damien Bates, Chief Medical Officer and Head of Research at SanBio. “But equally, we appreciate this strong vote of confidence by the premier institution supporting regenerative medicine in the United States. Research and clinical development to date suggests that SB623 is a potential breakthrough in addressing the unmet medical need of chronic motor deficit in stroke patients.”

Stroke is the leading cause of acquired disability in the United States. Many patients suffer from permanent loss of function. After the first six months, the possibility for further recovery through traditional therapies is minimal. Sufferers from stroke disability impose a significant burden on the health care system.

“Today the CIRM Board approved two very different methods, using different kinds of stem cells, to address this need,” says Dr. Maria Millan, interim CEO and President of the agency. “By funding 'multiple shots on goal' we believe that we have a better chance of finding a way to repair the damage caused by stroke and give people a better quality of life.”