Ortec’s current focus is the application of its OrCel (Bilayered Cellular Matrix) to heal chronic and acute wounds. OrCel is composed of a collagen sponge seeded with allogeneic epidermal and dermal cells. These cells secrete growth factors and cytokines normally found in acute human wounds and are believed to have a beneficial role in promoting tissue repair. In addition to having received FDA approvals for the treatment of epidermolysis bullosa and donor sites in burn patients, a pivotal clinical trial is ongoing in venous ulcers, and the FDA has granted Ortec approval to initiate a pivotal trial in diabetic foot ulcers. Ortec believes that its platform technology may extend to the regeneration of other human tissue, such as tendons, ligaments, cartilage, bone, muscle, and blood vessels. For more information, visit Ortec’s website at http://www.ortecinternational.com. •••