BRIEF—Athersys and Healios expand collaboration in regenerative medicine

In an expansion to an existing development and commercialization deal, Nasdaq-listed Athersys will receive a $21 million equity investment from Healios as part of an agreement to develop products using the MultiStem regenerative medicine technology.

The deal will focus on products for indications to include acute respiratory distress syndrome in Japan, as well as certain ophthalmological indications globally.

Healios will also obtain an exclusive option to a license to develop and commercialize MultiStem products for ischemic stroke, ARDS and trauma in China, and obtain certain other rights.

In exchange, Athersys would receive committed payments of $35 million, as well as additional payments, including milestones and royalties.

If Healios elects to exercise its option for a license in China, Healios would pay Athersys license fees, milestone payments and escalating royalties or profit-sharing for each indication.