First participant enrolled in RepliCel's RCT-01 Phase 1/2 clinical trial for treatment of chronic tendinosis

ReaCT Trial at University of British Columbia Treating Patients with Autologous Cell Therapy

RepliCel Life Sciences Inc. (OTCQB: REPCF) (TSX.V: RP), a clinical stage regenerative medicine company focused on the development of autologous cell therapies, announced today that the first participant in its Phase 1/2 clinical trial of RCT-01, being tested for the treatment of chronic unilateral Achilles tendinosis, has been enrolled and their tissue biopsy sent for processing prior to intra-tendon ultrasound-guided injections. RCT-01 is comprised of non-bulbar dermal sheath (NBDS) cells isolated from hair follicles via a small biopsy taken from the back of the participant's head. A total of 28 participants, male and female, will be included in this study, also known as the 'ReaCT Trial'.

"The first participant enrollment and the subsequent booked patients are significant milestones in the development of RCT-01 and our NBDS fibroblast platform," stated David Hall, CEO. "In parallel to the RCT-01 trial, we have a clinical trial application for a companion platform product, RCS-01, for aging and sun damaged skin currently under review by European regulators in Germany. Upon receiving approval to initiate the RCS-01 trial which is anticipated in the near future, we will have two active clinical trials based on our NBDS platform. Both of these clinical trials are designed to deliver safety, clinical, and biologic mechanistic data next year – approximately 6 months after participants receive their last injection."

"Our RCT-01 treatment for chronic tendinosis represents a first step in developing a broad treatment platform for musculoskeletal injuries," commented Lee Buckler, VP Business and Corporate Development. "We are looking to expand the application of our RCT-01 treatment into other indications and other markets, particularly in Japan, where we are actively seeking partners for RCT-01 to take advantage of the opportunity there for accelerated market access. RepliCel is committed to a business model of out-licensing and partnerships for the late-stage development and commercialization of all our products."