On January 2, 2019, Stem Cell Medicine Ltd. (SCM), a biotechnology company developing new therapies for neurological indications, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and anti-BMP (bone morphogenic protein) molecules for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, and gene therapy for the treatment of neuropathic pain, announced that it has licensed an innovative exosomes-based technology for the treatment of neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric indications, specifically, autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The treatment is based on exosomes, derived from adult stem cells (MSC-exo), that are administered intranasally. The technology was developed by Professor Dani Offen, Sackler School of Medicine, Sagol School of Neurosciences, Tel Aviv University, and was licensed from Ramot, the Business Engagement Center at Tel Aviv University. The first indication to be developed with the exosome technology is ASD, which is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by three core symptoms: severe impairment of social interactions and communication skills, increased repetitive behaviors, and cognitive inflexibility. The prevalence of ASD has been steadily increasing in children over the past several years, with no effective treatment, hence, it represents a growing unmet medical need. More than 3.5 million Americans live with ASD. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services (CDC), the prevalence of autism in US children in 2018 is estimated to be 1 in 59 children and has increased from 1 in 110 children in 2010, making it the fastest-growing developmental disability with currently no FDA-approved drug. Given the size of the patient population and lack of treatments, the market opportunity is compelling.Login Or Register To Read Full Story