Baxter commences phase III trial of ischemia treatment

Baxter has commenced a new phase III clinical trial of a new stem cell-based treatment option for chronic myocardial ischemia (CMI).

The company has initiated a study that will assess the safety and efficacy of adult autologous CD34-positive stem cells as a means of increasing exercise capacity among patients affected by the condition.

Involving around 450 patients across 50 clinical sites, the study aims to support the positive results seen in a previous phase II study, which showed the effectiveness of this stem cell treatment for chronic and severe refractory angina.

CMI is recognised as one of the most severe forms of coronary artery disease, as it can cause long-term damage to the heart muscle and result in severe disability.

Dr Norbert Riedel, Baxter's chief science and innovation officer, said: "The goals of this phase III trial are aligned with Baxter's overall mission to develop life-saving and life-sustaining therapies and it will help us determine if the therapy can make a meaningful difference."

Last month, the company expanded its commercial capabilities through the acquisition of Synovis Life Technologies, a manufacturer of medical devices.