LAS VEGAS, March 3, 2026 — Leads & Copy — Avaí Bio, Inc. (OTCQB: AVAI), together with its joint venture partner Austrianova, has initiated production for a Master Cell Bank of genetically modified cells that overexpress the α-Klotho protein.
These cells will enable Klothonova, the parties’ joint venture (JV), to advance its anti-aging product candidate within the ongoing α-Klotho development program, following the successful completion of all preparatory activities in February.
The milestone supports the JV’s efforts to create a sustainable, cell-based approach to restoring circulating levels of the α-Klotho “longevity protein” for potential therapeutic benefits in aging and related conditions.
A Master Cell Bank (MCB) is a GMP-compliant, fully characterized, and homogeneous collection of vials derived from a single clone. The MCB is a critical starting material that forms the foundation for the scale-up and production of cell therapies. It serves as an essential resource, ensuring product consistency and reducing risk by safeguarding against contamination, degradation, extraneous agents, and genetic instability.
Establishing and maintaining a high-quality MCB, which serves as the primary source for all working cell banks—under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards—positions Avaí Bio and Austrianova for long-term success by supporting a reliable and sustainable supply chain.
The banked cells will ultimately be used to produce the final Cell-in-a-Box® encapsulated cell product, intended for use in innovative cell-based therapies targeting age-related diseases, such as Alzheimer’s¹ and cancer², while also advancing anti-aging and longevity treatments.
Chris Winter, Chief Executive Officer of Avaí Bio, said the company is excited to enter the first step in the production phase of α-Klotho producing cells as part of its commitment to deliver safe, effective treatments for aging associated diseases.
Prof. Walter H. Gunzburg, Chairman of Austrianova, added that MCBs are a prerequisite for the production of Cell-in-a-Box® encapsulated cell products and provide the foundation for sustainable production, ensuring they meet the highest quality standards.
The production is the latest development as part of the JV agreement signed in September 2025, which established Klothonova as a Nevada-based entity, equally owned by Avaí Bio and Austrianova’s affiliate, SG Austria Pte. Ltd.
The JV focuses on sustainable production of α-Klotho–known as the “longevity protein” and a key regulatory protein that is well documented for its anti-aging and protective effects on organs–in patients using encapsulated cell-based therapies.
¹ https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/article-abstract/2844556
² https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40004457/
Avaí Bio, Inc. is an emerging biotechnology company focused on identifying genetically modified cell lines, and through joint venture and licensing agreements developing innovative cell-based therapies.
Austrianova, based in Singapore, is a biotechnology company specializing in cell encapsulation, GMP-grade cell products, and cell line development.
More information about Avaí Bio can be found at https://www.avaibio.com
Source: Avaí Bio, Inc.
