HEIDELBERG, Germany & VIENNA — RHEACELL, a German biotechnology company specializing in stem cell research, and AOP Health, a leading European provider of integrated rare disease therapies, have announced a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating access to innovative cell therapies for patients suffering from Epidermolysis bullosa (EB), also known as “butterfly children’s disease,” and chronic venous wounds.
The collaboration brings together RHEACELL’s advanced research and development capabilities with AOP Health’s extensive commercial expertise in rare and critical care diseases. The joint effort focuses on two of RHEACELL’s most promising cell therapies, currently in Phase 3 clinical trials, which have shown potential in treating severe, currently underserved conditions. The partnership also seeks to expand access to these therapies beyond Europe to the Middle East, North Africa, Turkey, and Israel.
EB is a devastating genetic disorder characterized by extremely fragile skin and painful wounds. Chronic venous wounds, or leg ulcers, are another debilitating condition with limited treatment options. Both diseases can significantly reduce quality of life and, in severe cases, lead to life-threatening complications.
RHEACELL’s novel approach uses ABCB5+ mesenchymal stromal cells, a specific type of donor-derived cell with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Unlike conventional topical treatments, this therapy is administered systemically, enabling it to promote both internal and external wound healing by restoring normal tissue function. RHEACELL’s product is only the second stromal cell-based therapy to receive national marketing authorization in Germany, supported by positive Phase 2 clinical data for treating chronic venous wounds.
“The partnership marks a significant milestone for RHEACELL and the continued development of our stem cell therapy programs,” said Dr. Christoph Ganss, CEO of RHEACELL. “Working with an established partner like AOP Health will allow us to bring these therapies to patients across Europe more rapidly and effectively.”
AOP Health CEO Dr. Martin Steinhart echoed the importance of the collaboration, noting the urgent need for new treatment options in rare diseases. “This alliance with RHEACELL, a pioneer in stem cell therapy, supports our mission to bring urgently needed innovation to patients living with chronic venous wounds or Epidermolysis bullosa, many of whom have few or no treatment options.”
The alliance has also been welcomed by clinical and patient advocacy leaders. Dr. Johann Bauer, head of research at EB-Haus Austria, the world’s first clinic dedicated to EB, described the approach as a promising regenerative treatment. Dr. Rainer Riedl, founder and chairman of DEBRA Austria, added that RHEACELL’s systemic application of stromal cells distinguishes it from other therapies focused solely on local skin treatment.
With Phase 3 trials underway and positive feedback from regulatory authorities, RHEACELL expects to file its first marketing application with the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in 2026. The partnership underscores a shared commitment by both companies to transform the care landscape for patients with high unmet medical needs through cutting-edge cell therapy innovation.
