Biomerix, Synthecon enter strategic distribution agreement for 3D cell culture scaffolds

Biomerix Corporation, a medical technologies company developing and manufacturing innovative regenerative medicine biomaterials, and Synthecon, a leading biotechnology company specializing in the design and manufacturing of rotating cell culture systems, today announced a strategic distribution agreement for three-dimensional cell culture scaffolds developed using Biomerix Corporation's unique biomaterial technology.

The Biomerix 3D Scaffold is a medical grade biomaterial that embodies a novel microarchitecture, consisting of an interconnected three dimensional network of cells and pores designed to support tissue ingrowth and biointegration. Used in concert with Synthecon's bioreactors, the 3D Scaffold serves as an ideal technology to create an environment conducive to the growth of cells and tissues. Under the agreement, Biomerix will develop and manufacture the Biomerix 3D Scaffold, which Synthecon will market and sell nationwide for research applications. Specific terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

"Synthecon investigators have had excellent results using this material in its Rotary bioreactors to create 3-D cell cultures. Synthecon is currently utilizing the Biomerix 3-D Scaffold in an NIH-funded project to scale-up production of hematopoietic stem cells. The fact that Biomerix 3-D Scaffold is already approved for human use and is very compatible with the Rotary Cell Culture System gives us a high degree of confidence that the combination of these two technologies will lead to many exciting applications in the field of tissue engineering," commented Bill Anderson, CEO of Synthecon.

"Partnering with Synthecon allows us to be on the forefront of regenerative medicine and represents a significant growth opportunity for our Company," said Kenneth Hayes, President and Chief Executive Officer of Biomerix Corporation. "Synthecon is well respected as a leader in 3D cell culture systems and we look forward to a productive partnership," he concluded.