Tissue Genesis, Inc, an emerging leader in advanced tissue engineering and cell therapy solutions, and American Medical Systems Holdings, Inc. (AMS) announced they have signed an agreement for the research and development of adipose (fat)–derived regenerative cells for use in treating pelvic health disorders. American Medical Systems will pay US$ 1.1 million over the life of the agreement to obtain rights offered by Tissue Genesis, Inc.

"AMS is committed to being at the forefront of innovation to improve the lives of the millions of people worldwide who suffer from pelvic health disorders," said Tony Bihl, president and CEO of American Medical Systems. "We are delighted to partner with Tissue Genesis, a leader in the burgeoning field of regenerative cell technology, to research therapies that may fundamentally improve patient treatment within our markets."

"We are proud to partner with American Medical Systems – a company with true vision and initiative – as they recognize the immense potential benefits of cell therapy," said Anton Krucky, president and CEO of Tissue Genesis. "Adipose tissue is a rich source of regenerative cells – including adult stem cells – and these cells have shown promising results in their ability to help patients. American Medical Systems' world-class technology and business acumen will be a tremendous asset to Tissue Genesis."

Through the deal, American Medical Systems has a four year option to obtain exclusive distribution and license rights to Tissue Genesis' regenerative cell technology – including the Tissue Genesis Cell Isolation System – for use in human pelvic health applications, with an additional two year right of first refusal. Along with milestone payments, Tissue Genesis will receive rights to certain data and derivative technology developed under the agreement. Tissue Genesis, in turn, will provide American Medical Systems with instruments, disposables, and know-how to allow American Medical Systems to develop state-of-the-art regenerative cell applications.

The Tissue Genesis Cell Isolation System processes a small amount of the patient's own adipose tissue into a concentration of millions of regenerative cells, including adult stem cells, microvascular endothelial cells, and other cells. These cells can be coated onto artificial implants or directly injected into damaged tissue, to improve circulation and support the formation of new tissue. The Cell Isolation System conveniently brings cell therapy solutions right to a patient's bedside, as it completes the process in about an hour – in the operating room – while the surgeon prepares the patient to receive his or her own cells back into the damaged area.

Through this new collaboration, American Medical Systems joins the Tissue Genesis Commercialization Consortium(SM) of companies, institutions and researchers who share their expertise. The consortium forms a network of top researchers in the field of adipose-derived regenerative cell technology for the mutual benefit of all the members.

Dr Stuart Williams, chief science officer of Tissue Genesis, and a pioneer of adipose-derived cell technology, said, "The addition of American Medical Systems to the companies and institutions working on Tissue Genesis' regenerative cell technology will significantly extend our advancement in this market. This collaboration has the potential to propel both companies into the next generation of regenerative healthcare."

An emerging leader in adipose-derived cell therapy and regenerative medicine, Tissue Genesis, Inc. is a high-growth, clinical-stage company based in Honolulu, Hawai'i. Industry-leading engineers and scientists have developed a proprietary process for Tissue Genesis that may deliver innovative medical solutions for a wide range of existing medical problems, including: cardiac and peripheral vascular disease; orthopaedic injuries; cosmetic and soft tissue defects; and many other applications.