Cellect Biotechnology Ltd., a developer of a novel stem cell production technology, announced that it has entered into a strategic manufacturing and supply agreement with Swiss Biotech Center (SBC) to secure production of FasL protein - Cellect's main active ingredient in ApoGraft and the line of Apotainer.

According to the agreement, SBC grants to Cellect exclusivity to the FasL protein developed by SBC for a period of five years. The agreement further provides for the production of clinical batches of the FasL protein for Cellect's planned US clinical trials. Cellect and SBC contemplate expanding production capacity to meet future needs including marketing and collaborations with licensors of Cellect technology.

The FasL protein is a key active ingredient in Cellect's product line and technology for cell separation and functional selection of stem cells. As Cellect advances in its product development, it becomes essential to secure a consistent and reliable supply of pharma-grade FasL. Production of large quantities of clinical grade material is currently the gating item for initiating US based clinical trials.

Dr. Shai Yarkoni, Cellect CEO comments: "We are getting ready to support many clinical trials and collaborations using the Apograft containing FasL. This agreement supports Cellect's mission statement of enabling a multi-billion global market over the next 5 years while positioning Cellect towards potentially meeting commercial demand for millions of patients worldwide in need of stem cell therapy, as well as providing raw materials for stem cells research centers and the biobanking industry."