Abeona Therapeutics Activates UTMB Galveston As New Qualified Treatment Center To Administer FDA-Approved ZEVASKYN Gene Therapy For RDEB Patients

Abeona Therapeutics Inc. announced that The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston, Texas, has been activated as the newest Qualified Treatment Center (QTC) authorized to administer ZEVASKYN (prademagene zamikeracel) gene-modified cellular sheets. ZEVASKYN is an FDA-approved, autologous gene therapy designed to treat wounds in both adult and pediatric patients living with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB), a rare and severe genetic skin disorder.

UTMB is a leading academic medical institution recognized for its long-standing expertise in dermatology and advanced wound care. As the home of the first dermatology department in Texas, the medical center plays an important role in managing complex skin diseases and providing specialized care to patients across the region.

According to Dr. Madhav Vasanthavada, Chief Commercial Officer at Abeona, bringing UTMB on board as a Qualified Treatment Center greatly enhances access to ZEVASKYN for patients throughout Texas and the Gulf Coast. He highlighted UTMB’s strong commitment to innovation and patient-centered care, noting that the institution is well-positioned to deliver this transformative therapy to individuals affected by RDEB.

Dr. Michael G. Wilkerson, Professor and Chair of the Department of Dermatology at UTMB, emphasized the significant challenges faced by patients with RDEB, who experience chronic blistering, painful open wounds, and the constant need for intensive daily wound care. He noted that, historically, the absence of disease-modifying treatment options has placed a heavy burden on both patients and their families. Dr. Wilkerson expressed pride in UTMB’s designation as a treatment center for ZEVASKYN and reaffirmed the institution’s dedication to offering this innovative, FDA-approved gene therapy that brings new hope for improved healing and quality of life for those living with RDEB.