genOway and Griffith University sign research partnership and license for olfactory stem cells technology

genOway, a biotechnology company dedicated to the development of genetically modified animal models, today reports an agreement with the Griffith University (Brisbane, Australia) on a eight-months research partnership with its Eskitis Institute for Cell and Molecular Therapies focusing on autologous olfactory adult stem cells. This research program is coupled with a world wide exclusive license to genOway for the rodent transgenic business.

This break-through technology using adult stem cells of the olfactory bulb has been characterised on humans, mice and rats. Germline transmission has been demonstrated in mice, thus validating their use for the creation of animal models. The eight-month research program aims at establishing germline transmission in rats using existing rat olfactory adult stem cells. This technology would provide a unique tool for rat models and certain mice strains, which remained unreachable using embryonic stem cells.

According to the terms of the agreement, both partners will each bear the cost of their R&D efforts and genOway will have an exclusive license on the technologies for the creation and distribution of mouse and rat genetically modified models.

Mr Nicholas Mathiou, Director of Griffith Enterprise, Griffith University’s technology commercialization office, said: “Adult stem cells will revolutionise diagnostics, drug development and therapy. This technology really constitutes a leap forward this goal. We believe that genOway through its world unique expertise and rich customers’ portfolio stands out as the best partner to develop and market this technology.”

Alexandre Fraichard, CEO of genOway, declared: “We are very proud to acquire the exclusive license for such a promising technology. Collaborating with a leading stem cell laboratory is a very strong business opportunity for genOway. The major benefit is olfactory stem cells exist in all species paving the way for more predictable models. The first therapeutic areas to benefit from this innovation would be neurosciences and oncology, but also pharmaco-toxicology studies. If the research program goes well, we anticipate first revenues as of 2011. Filling up our service and products with innovation is the best way to speed up our growth and increase our profitability.”