Vita 34 International : Receives Patent for the Preparation of Umbilical Cord Tissue for Cryo-Preservation

Vita 34 Receives Patent for the Preparation of Umbilical Cord Tissue for Cryo-Preservation

Leipzig, October 12, 2016 - The European Patent Office (EPO) intends to grant a patent for the preparation and cryo-preservation of umbilical cord tissue and the cells contained therein. The patent covers all of the process steps from transport to collection of the stem cells. This is a process for disinfection, for cryo-preservation, and for the isolation of cells from umbilical cord tissue.

The patent can extend to 38 countries, among them all 28 member states of the European Union.

Dr. André Gerth, CEO of Vita 34 AG: 'The willingness to grant a patent is a confirmation of the fact that investments in our research and development are worthwhile. We are on the right path and will continue to pursue our strategy of product development and strengthening our market leadership.'

In 2013 Vita 34 received a permit for the processing, cryo-preservation and storage of umbilical cord tissue in accordance with Sec. 20c German Pharmaceutical Act (AMG) as well as for its collection according to Sec. 20b AMG, thus attaining an important step on the way to becoming a comprehensive provider.

Vita 34 is now the only stem cell bank in Germany that has a permit not only for the storage of umbilical cord blood, but also umbilical cord tissue in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practice (PMG) guidelines, a decisive differentiator for Vita 34. The company has been continuously able to increase the number of umbilical cord tissue units stored and, thus, continues to expand its market leadership in its important home market, Germany.

Vita 34 will also accelerate growth in the future via the introduction of new products, thus remaining the innovation leader in Europe. The company was recognized in 2016 as one of the 100 most innovative medium-sized companies in Germany.

Company Profile

Vita 34 was founded in 1997 as the first private umbilical cord blood bank in Europe and, as a complete provider, offers collection logistics, preparation and storage of umbilical cord blood. The basis for its successful work is an outstanding position in the technological segment of cryo-preservation. Here, cells and tissue are preserved alive at some -190ºC for long periods of time, and can be used if needed in the context of medical treatment. More than 150,000 families are already taking advantage of this offering and have provided for their children with a stem cell deposit at Vita 34.