Athersys was founded in 1995. Athersys scientists, working in collaboration with researchers at Case Western Reserve University Medical School, jointly developed the Synthetic Microchromosome vector technology. Athersys' mission is to gain an important in the biopharmaceutical industry in the identification, development and commercialization of therapeutics that extend and enhance the quality of human life. The Company will establish and maintain its leadership in early stage product development through the application of unique, proprietary technologies, the intelligent application of its core pre-clinical capabilities, and the utilization of a network of world-class advisors, consultants, outside service providers and partners to assist it in clinical development. Athersys focuses its development efforts on products that have the potential to bring substantial clinical benefit to patients in areas of significant unmet need. In addition to developing safer and more effective ways to treat disease, the company is also committed to delivering more cost effective approaches to medical treatment.