Pluristem Therapeutics

Pluri Inc., formerly known as Pluristem Therapeutics, is a biotechnology company that has pivoted its core technology towards a broader range of applications beyond its initial focus on regenerative medicine. Founded in 2001 by Shai Meretzki, the company originated from stem cell patent research conducted during his Ph.D. studies at the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology. In 2003, it was acquired by a NASDAQ-listed shell company and later renamed Pluristem Therapeutics Inc. in 2007, before its final name change to Pluri Inc. in July 2022 to reflect its expanded strategy. This change signaled a strategic move to leverage its proprietary 3D cell-based technology platform across additional industries.

Pluri's business is centered on its advanced, three-dimensional (3D) cell expansion technology platform. This system is designed for the mass production of high-quality cells in a scalable and cost-effective manner, maintaining batch-to-batch consistency. The company's initial focus was on developing placental expanded (PLX) cell therapy products. PLX cells are derived from placentas and are allogeneic, meaning they do not require tissue or genetic matching before administration to a patient. These cells release therapeutic proteins that can help the body's own regenerative mechanisms to heal damaged tissues. The company's pipeline included PLX-PAD for conditions like muscle injury and PLX-R18 for hematological disorders and acute radiation syndrome.

Recognizing the broader potential of its cell expansion capabilities, Pluri has diversified its operations. The company now operates in the regenerative medicine and food-tech sectors and is pursuing partnerships in agritech and biologics. A significant milestone in this diversification was the January 2022 collaboration with Tnuva, Israel's largest food producer, to create a joint venture called Ever After Foods. This venture aims to develop and manufacture cultured meat products, combining Pluri's cell production expertise with Tnuva's food development and distribution capabilities. Pluri also engages in Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) activities. The company's shares are publicly traded on the Nasdaq and the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol PLUR.

Keywords: cell therapy, regenerative medicine, 3D cell expansion, biotechnology, placental cells, PLX cells, allogeneic cell therapy, cultured meat, food-tech, agritech, biologics, contract development manufacturing organization, CDMO, tissue regeneration, hematological disorders, acute radiation syndrome, sustainable food