LyGenesis is pioneering a revolutionary approach to cell therapies aimed at addressing significant unmet medical needs, particularly in organ transplantation. The company utilizes the patient's own lymph nodes as bioreactors to cultivate functioning ectopic organs, which can effectively replace the need for traditional organ transplants. This innovative method allows for a single donated organ to potentially treat multiple patients, significantly altering the economics of organ supply and demand. Their lead therapy targets End Stage Liver Disease, while additional therapies are in development for conditions such as Type 1 diabetes and end-stage renal disease. The engraftment of these therapies is performed using an outpatient endoscopic ultrasound procedure, which reduces both medical risks and costs compared to conventional organ transplantation.

The scientific foundation of LyGenesis's technology is rooted in the unique biological properties of lymph nodes, which are naturally designed to support T-cell proliferation and vascularization. This capability is harnessed to facilitate the engraftment and growth of allogeneic cell therapies, enabling them to function similarly to native organs. Initial research conducted by Dr. Eric Lagasse demonstrated that liver cells transplanted into lymph nodes could thrive and function as miniature livers, providing life-saving effects in animal models. Extensive preclinical studies have validated the potential for in vivo organogenesis within lymph nodes, leading to a robust pipeline of therapies that aim to optimize cellular products and implantation techniques for effective clinical application.

United States

LyGenesis is a biotechnology company with an organ regeneration technology platform enabling a patient’s lymph nodes to be used as bioreactors to regrow functioning ectopic organs. LyGenesis’ lead preclinical program is focused on liver regeneration for patients with end stage liver disease. Other therapeutic targets for organ regeneration include the thymus, pancreas, and kidney. Privately held, LyGenesis is headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. 

LyGenesis

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