Healios K.K. and Athersys, Inc. have announced a partnership and license agreement that will focus on the development and commercialization of novel cell therapy treatments, including MultiStem for the treatment of ischemic stroke and potentially other indications, in Japan. The partnership involves MultiStem, a proprietary, patented off-the-shelf stem cell therapy being developed by Athersys, with an initial focus on treating ischemic stroke. Under the terms of the agreement, Healios will gain exclusive rights for the development of MultiStem for treating ischemic stroke in Japan.

Healios will develop and commercialize the product in Japan, and Athersys will provide the manufactured product and support to Healios, while retaining all rights outside of Japan. In addition, Healios will obtain an exclusive option for development of two additional MultiStem clinical indications in Japan, including the treatment of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, which is currently in clinical development by Athersys in the United States and the United Kingdom, and another indication in the orthopedic area. Healios will also obtain an exclusive license to incorporate Athersys technology in the development and commercialization of its proprietary Healios organ bud technology, initially for transplantation to treat liver disease or dysfunction, which may be expanded upon exercise of the option.