Avaí Bio Launches Master Cell Bank for Advancements in Cell Therapy Production

### Avaí Bio Advances in Cell Therapy Production with Master Cell Bank

Avaí Bio, Inc. has recently initiated the production of a Master Cell Bank (MCB) in partnership with Austrianova, marking a significant milestone in their collaborative effort known as Klothonova. This MCB will consist of genetically modified cells designed to overexpress the α-Klotho protein, which plays a crucial role in addressing age-related health issues. This development is pivotal not only for Avaí Bio's future therapies but also represents a substantial advancement toward establishing a robust supply chain in the rapidly growing cell therapy market, projected to exceed $8.2 billion by 2026.

With the cell and gene therapy sector on track to leap from $10.4 billion to over $45 billion by 2035, Avaí Bio's focus on producing a high-quality MCB under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) positions the company at the forefront of this expansion. The MCB serves as a fundamental starting point for large-scale production of innovative cell therapies, ensuring consistency in products while mitigating the risks of contamination and genetic instability. Such measures are vital in maintaining the integrity of therapies designed for combatting aging-related diseases, aligning seamlessly with the company's mission to revolutionize health outcomes for older populations.

CEO Chris Winter emphasizes that the establishment of this MCB is a critical step in the journey to bring effective treatments to market. The recent completion of preparatory activities for this production phase has set a solid foundation for future advancements. Meanwhile, Walter H. Gunzburg, Chairman of Austrianova, states that MCBs are indispensable for producing their patented Cell-in-a-Box® encapsulated products, illustrating the interdependent nature of this milestone within their long-term strategies.

Avaí Bio's development reflects industry trends towards enhanced manufacturing efficiencies and breakthroughs in cell therapy. As the market evolves, the company's focus on high-quality cell production positions it advantageously within an increasingly competitive landscape where innovations in off-the-shelf cell platforms are yielding substantial growth potential.