Cytori Therapeutics (CYTX) reported preclinical study results in large animals which demonstrated the ability of adipose-derived stem and regenerative cells [ADRCs] to repair and increase the tissue density of damaged spinal discs, which was retained at both six and 12-month follow-up assessments. The study demonstrates the potential for a patient's own ADRCs to heal injured spinal discs in a safe manner (as no inflammation was present within the disc space), with results expected to be reported in full next spring.
Cytori has rebounded nicely since briefly falling below two bucks and traded up today by nearly 13% to $2.90 per share. CYTX is also a component in the ETF Innovators [ETFI] Cosmetic & Reconstructive Medicine Index, which includes other commercial-stage stem cell and regenerative medicine companies such as Osiris Therapeutics (OSIR), RTI Biologics (RTIX), and Integra LifeSciences (IART). Regenerative medicine represents the next frontier for big pharma R&D with companies such as Pfizer (PFE) and Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) entering the space through partnerships and investments.
Forest Labs (FRX) and Cypress Bioscience (CYPB) announced positive Phase 3 results for milnacipran in the treatment of fibromyalgia, which was statistically significant compared to placebo. More detailed results are expected next year as the data is analyzed is further. Both companies are still awaiting a missed FDA decision deadline from mid-October, with today's data confirming the efficacy of milnacipran with a separate cardiovascular study undertaken to address any possible concerns by the agency with regard to increased blood pressure or heart rate. Despite the good news today, CYPB is still trading below 6 bucks despite having no debt and about 4 bucks per share in cash – making the stock a buy ahead of a likely FDA approval for milnacipran.
$23.45 (12/09/08)
