MyoCell, a cell-based, autologous skeletal myoblast therapy for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases

Cell therapy is fast emerging as a potential therapeutic option in cardiovascular therapeutics. Because of their inherent myogenic differentiation potential, skeletal myoblasts (SkMs) have been extensively assessed in preclinical and clinical studies for their feasibility, safety and effectiveness for myocardial repair. Bioheart Inc is developing MyoCell, autologous SkMs delivered by MyoCath and MyoStar catheter delivery systems, for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infarction and congestive heart failure. MyoCell is undergoing phase II/III clinical development and has so far demonstrated safety and efficacy, including improvements in cardiac function in phase I/II clinical trials.