BioTransplant and Gambro Announce Commencement of Distribution For the Eligix Ex-Vivo Cell Separation Devices for Cancer Patients
- Gambro to Lead the Distribution Process of the BCell-SC and TCell-DLI Cell Separation Systems in Europe -
CHARLESTOWN, Mass., Oct. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- BioTransplant Incorporated (Nasdaq: BTRN - news) and Gambro BCT, a wholly owned subsidiary of Gambro AB (Stockholmsborsen: GAMBaST, GAMBbST) today announced the start of distribution on BioTransplant's Eligix(TM) BCell-SC and TCell-DLI Cell Separation Systems in Europe. As stated in the terms of the exclusive distribution agreement recently announced, Gambro will distribute BioTransplant's Eligix HDM (High Density Microparticles) cell separation product line worldwide, exclusive of the US, Canada and Japan. Margins generated from the sales will be shared between the two companies, based on a specific formula.
``At Gambro BCT, we look to broaden our offerings to clinicians and believe the availability of the Eligix Cell Separation Systems in Europe will further allow them to improve patient outcomes,'' said David Perez, President of Gambro BCT. ``We have an established sales force that is being augmented to focus efforts on the cell selection and transplantation markets.''
BioTransplant's Eligix BCell-SC cell separation system specifically addresses treatment for B-cell malignancies, which include non-Hodgkins lymphoma, multiple myeloma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and other malignancies commonly treated by stem cell transplantation. The Eligix TCell-DLI product recently received the CE Mark authorization, signifying the approval to market the system in Europe. The cell separation system is expected to further enhance allogeneic stem cell transplant procedures versus those obtainable using non-transplant approaches by potentially reducing the deadly risks of relapse and graft versus host disease, while maintaining an anti-leukemia effect.
``We are excited about starting the distribution of BioTransplant's Eligix HDM cell separator products. Our Eligix cell separation devices are expected to bring tremendous benefits in helping treat cancer patients,'' said Elliot Lebowitz, BioTransplant's Chairman and CEO. ``This is a significant milestone for us as we continue to make progress in our transition from a development company, to a company with commercial sales.''
The current worldwide market of allogeneic transplants for the treatment of hematological and solid cancer patients is approximately 16,000, a number that has been growing steadily in the past years. BioTransplant estimates that stem cell and bone marrow transplantation for these forms of cancer accounts for over $1 billion in healthcare expenditures worldwide each year.
Gambro is a global medical technology and healthcare company with leading positions in renal care -- services and products -- and blood component technology. Gambro Healthcare is one of the leading providers of kidney dialysis services in the world with about 50,000 patients in 670 clinics worldwide. Gambro Renal Products comprises dialyzers, dialysis machines, blood lines and dialysis concentrates. Gambro BCT includes products for the separation and handling of blood components. The group, with revenues of approximately SEK 22 billion (USD $2.4 billion), has approximately 19,500 employees in some 40 countries... |
