AlloSource Signs Space Act Agreement With NASA And Jet Propulsion Laboratory

CENTENNIAL, Colo., Sept. 16, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- AlloSource, one of the nation's largest providers of skin, bone and soft tissue allografts for use in surgical procedures, and the world's largest processor of cellular bone allografts, signed a Space Act Agreement with National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) to collaborate on microbial research.  AlloSource will leverage technologies developed by NASA/JPL for assembly and launch operations of various Mars missions -- specifically, rapid molecular microbial burden measurement and genetic inventory cataloging -- to advance microbial research in tissue processing.

Manufacturer's Edge, formerly the Colorado Association for Manufacturing and Technology (CAMT), and NASA are partners on a technology matching and product development assistance program to help Colorado companies use NASA resources to spur innovation for new products and processes. AlloSource's participation in the Manufacturer's Edge program led to this unique collaboration. JPL, a division of the California Institute of Technology, is the NASA center that manages the Curiosity Rover mission, which focuses on assessing a local region on Mars' surface as a potential habitat for past life.

"Working with NASA and JPL is an amazing achievement for AlloSource and we are grateful for Manufacturer's Edge's assistance in facilitating this relationship," said Thomas Cycyota, President and CEO of AlloSource. "We are committed to researching and developing new processes that allow us to continue to maximize the gift of human tissue donation."

The molecular microbial detection technology used in the rigorous pre- and post-mission testing of the Mars mission spacecraft components provides an opportunity for AlloSource to evolve microbial testing on donated tissue. In order for tissue to be safe and suitable for transplant, an array of intense, specialized scientific testing is required. Tissue is subjected to microbiological testing at recovery and must be free of specific microorganisms and contaminants that would preclude tissue from processing or transplantation. Additional post-processing testing is also required before the tissue is transplantable. NASA, JPL and AlloSource will share ideas and processes related to microbiological testing methods and will look for new ways to rapidly detect the presence of microorganisms.

"This creative collaboration shows the value of connecting NASA's cutting-edge space program technology with AlloSource's tissue testing methods to potentially impact countless lives. We are delighted to help AlloSource connect with NASA and JPL and improve lives in this way," said Tom Bugnitz, CEO of Manufacturer's Edge (formerly CAMT).

About AlloSource
AlloSource is a non-profit company that offers more than 200 types of precise bone, skin, soft-tissue and custom-machined allografts for use in an array of life-saving and life-enhancing medical procedures. As the world's leader in fresh cartilage tissue used for joint repair and skin allografts to help heal severe burns, AlloSource has grown into one of the largest tissue networks in the country with more than 400 employees. It is the world's largest processor of cellular bone allografts and delivers unparalleled expertise and customer service to its growing network of surgeons, partners and the country's most reputable organ procurement organizations. As one of the leading innovators in maximizing tissue donation with the goal of offering optimal solutions for healthcare providers and their patients, AlloSource is recognized by the medical community for its ability to process and provide high quality tissue. The company is accredited by the American Association of Tissue Banks and is headquartered in Centennial, CO. For more information, please visit allosource.org or our educational website, allograftpossibilities.org.

About Manufacturer's Edge (formerly Colorado Association for Manufacturing and Technology)
Manufacturer's Edge (formerly CAMT) is a statewide manufacturing assistance center dedicated to increasing the competitiveness of Colorado manufacturers. Our manufacturing experts and industry resource network help create the change that can make the difference.

Manufacturer's Edge provides expertise in results-driven methodologies, best practices, and innovative technologies designed to increase your profitability. As a public/private partnership, we bring together government, not-for-profit and industry resources to offer the comprehensive programs and services you need. Since our inception in 1994, hundreds of Colorado manufacturers have turned to us for strategic solutions to help them succeed over the long term.

Manufacturer's Edge is the state affiliate of the national Manufacturing Extension Partnership.

About Jet Propulsion Laboratory 
NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California is a division of the California Institute of Technology.

Media Contacts
Megan Duggan
AlloSource
720. 382. 2766
[email protected]

Tom Bugnitz
Manufacturer's Edge (formerly CAMT)
303. 592. 4087
[email protected]

SOURCE AlloSource