About Sernova, Corp. À propos de Sernova, Corp.
Sernova is committed to the development and clinical advancement of its products for metabolic, hematological and other chronic diseases using therapeutic cells transplanted into a patented implanted medical device, which forms an organ-like environment promoting long-term function and survival of the therapeutic cells. Sernova s'engage dans le développement et l'avancement clinique de ses produits contre les maladies métaboliques, hématologiques et autres maladies chroniques utilisant des cellules thérapeutiques transplantées dans un dispositif médical implanté breveté, qui forme un environnement semblable à un organe favorisant la fonction et la survie à long terme des cellules thérapeutiques.
The company’s management believes in building strong and long-lasting collaborations and partnerships that would lead to the rapid advancement of Sernova’s portfolio of products into the market, improving global health and bringing value to patients and society, in concert with our clinical development programs. La direction de la société croit à la mise en place de collaborations et de partenariats solides et durables qui permettraient au portefeuille de produits de Sernova de progresser rapidement sur le marché, d’améliorer la santé mondiale et d’apporter une valeur ajoutée aux patients et à la société, de concert avec nos programmes de développement clinique.
Indications: Les indications:
Diabetes Diabète
Haemophilia A Hémophilie A
Thyroid disease Maladie thyroïdienne
Clinical studies: Etudes cliniques:
Diabetes US phase I/II clinical study cleared by the FDA Etude clinique de phase I / II sur le diabète, approuvée par la FDA
First-in-human study in Diabetic subjects with hypoglycemia unawareness Première étude chez l'homme chez des sujets diabétiques peu conscients de l'hypoglycémie
Cell Pouch System™

Sernova’s Cell Pouch System™ is a novel implantable and scalable medical device which forms a highly vascularized organ-like environment in the body for the housing, function and long-term survival of therapeutic cells. These therapeutic cells release necessary proteins or hormones missing from the body to treat chronic diseases as an alternative to daily administration of drugs. Le Cell Pouch System™ est un nouveau dispositif médical préalablement implanté et formant un environnement naturel hautement vascularisé afin d’y loger des cellules thérapeutiques, favorisant leur bon fonctionnement et leur survie dans le corps. Ces cellules thérapeutiques libèrent les protéines ou les hormones nécessaires pour traiter les maladies chroniques comme alternative a l’administration quotidienne de médicaments.

Immune Protection Protection immunitaire

We have shown that cells can be protected using medications that prevent immune system attack within the Cell Pouch™. Nous avons montré que les cellules peuvent être protégées en utilisant des médicaments qui empêchent les attaques du système immunitaire dans la Cell Pouch™.
Microencapsulation technologies house cells within the Cell Pouch chambers and protect the cells from immune system attack. Les technologies de microencapsulation hébergent les cellules dans les chambres à cellules et les protègent des attaques du système immunitaire.
Technologies are in development to make transplanted cells unrecognizable to the immune system. Des technologies sont en cours de développement pour rendre les cellules greffées méconnaissables du système immunitaire.
Sernova’s Cell Pouch™, combined with immune protected therapeutic cells, offers protection from immune system attack creating an effective, safe, long-term and convenient therapeutic option for patients with chronic diseases who seek to improve their quality of life. Le Cell Pouch™ de Sernova, associé à des cellules immunitaires protégées, offre une protection contre le système immunitaire avec une option thérapeutique efficace, sûre, à long terme et pratique pour les patients atteints de maladies chroniques qui cherchent à améliorer leur qualité de vie.

Featured News Nouvelles en vedette
Marisa Wexler of Hemophilia News Today - AstraZeneca, Sernova join forces on cell therapy research
Medical Device Network - Sernova and AstraZeneca team to study novel therapeutic cell applications
Manshi Mamtora of Seeking Alpha - Sernova joins hands with AstraZeneca for potential therapeutic cell applications
Shane Whooley of Drug Delivery Business - Sernova, AstraZeneca collaborate to deliver therapeutic cells with Sernova Cell Pouch
Noah Stansfield of CGTLive features Sernova in Around the Helix: Cell and Gene Therapy Company Updates – May 3, 2023
Dr. Philip Toleikis recently spoke with proto.life (formerly NEO.LIFE) on the advancements of our Cell Pouch System™ to develop a potential ‘functional cure’ to improve the quality of life for patients with T1D
News Releases Communiqués de presse
Sernova Announces Research Collaboration with AstraZeneca to Evaluate Novel Potential Therapeutic Cell Applications
SERNOVA CORP. ANNOUNCES VOTING RESULTS OF THE 2023 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
Successful Results Using Sernova's Cell Pouch System™ with Evotec's iPSC-Derived Islet-like Clusters for Type 1 Diabetes Presented at the 4th IPITA
Sernova Reminds Shareholders to Vote FOR the Eight Management Director Nominees Using ONLY the WHITE Management Proxy
Invest with Sernova Investir dans Sernova
If you are a shareholder, investor, broker, analyst, journalist, investment advisor, or looking to develop business opportunities, please feel free to contact us by email or telephone. Si vous êtes actionnaire, investisseur, courtier, analyste, journaliste, conseiller en placement ou souhaitez développer des opportunités d’affaires, n'hésitez pas à nous contacter par email ou par téléphone.
Sernova is a regenerative medicine company developing therapeutic technologies with multibillion-dollar market potential for each of its clinical indications. Sernova est une société de médecine régénérative développant des technologies thérapeutiques offrant un potentiel de marché de plusieurs milliards de dollars pour chacune de ses indications cliniques.
Sernova is a Collaborative Team Sernova, c’est aussi les collaborations
We believe in advancing our clinical programs and building strong and long-lasting collaborations and partnerships that will lead to the rapid advancement of Sernova’s portfolio of products into the market, improving global health and bringing value to patients and society. Nous croyons en la promotion de nos programmes cliniques et en la mise en place de collaborations et de partenariats solides et durables qui permettront au portefeuille de produits de Sernova de progresser rapidement sur le marché, d'améliorer la santé mondiale et d'apporter de la valeur aux patients et à la société.
Privacy PolicyPolitique de confidentialité
Updated July 6, 2018
Please read this Policy carefully along with our Legal Notice that describes our Terms of Use for the Website.
By accessing www.sernova.com (the “Website”) you hereby agree with the practices described in this Privacy Policy (the “Policy”)
This Policy applies to all information gathered through the Website and/or any related marketing technique or events.
Information Collection
The information collected is limited to the information that you decide to share with us through the News Dispatch Service, when participating at event or activities or in the general course of business by expressing an interest in obtaining information about Sernova Corp. and our products, such as name, email, phone number, and similar contact information. This information is stored through MailChimp (please refer to MailChimp Privacy Policy at https://mailchimp.com/legal/privacy/).
Information Sharing
Sernova Corp. is the sole owner of any information collected on the Website. We do not sell, share or rent this information to others.
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Sernova Corp. maintains log files of the traffic on www.sernova.com. This information is not linked to any personal information that you have provided us. Logs are used to manage traffic, identify content accessed, and IT requirements. Information logged and automatically collected includes without being limited to IP addresses and browser types. This information does not reveal your specific identity.
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Cookies can be used to provide you with a more personalized experience. The Website may use cookies to make that experience more companionable when you return to the Website. You have the option at all time to decline the use of cookies. If you choose to do so, you may not be able to fully use all features of the Website. You can also delete cookie files at all time from your computer. Those cookies may include first-party cookies (such as the Google Analytics cookies).
Updates
This Policy is a living document and may be amended or updated from time to time without further notice. We encourage you to review the Policy periodically.
Contact
If you have any questions or comments about our policy, you can email us at info@sernova.com or by phone at 1(877) 299-4603 or by mail at
Sernova Corp.
700 Collip Circle, Suite 114
London, ON Canada N6G 4X8
Mis à jour le 6 juillet 2018
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Contact
Si vous avez des questions ou des commentaires sur notre politique, vous pouvez nous envoyer un courriel à info@sernova.com ou par téléphone au 1 (877) 299-4603 ou par courrier à
Sernova Corp.
700 Collip Circle, Suite 114
London, ON Canada N6G 4X8
Press Release Communiqué de presse - May 03, 2023 3 May, 2023
Sernova Announces Research Collaboration with AstraZeneca to Evaluate Novel Potential Therapeutic Cell Applications
LONDON, Ontario – May 3, 2023 – Sernova Corp. (TSX:SVA) (OTCQB:SEOVF) (FSE/XETRA:PSH), a clinical-
stage company and leader in cell therapeutics, today announced it has entered into a preclinical research
collaboration with AstraZeneca (LSE/STO/Nasdaq:AZN) to evaluate the use of Sernova’s Cell Pouch System™ in
combination with AstraZeneca’s novel therapeutic cells.
“Sernova has developed a novel cell therapy approach for the potential treatment of insulin-dependent
diabetes, hypothyroidism and hemophilia A,” said Dr. Philip Toleikis, President and Chief Executive Officer of
Sernova. “By engrafting functional therapeutic cells within an implanted Cell Pouch, which naturally
vascularizes with surrounding tissues, we create an environment for the production and release of absent or
under-expressed hormones and proteins. We are pleased to be working with AstraZeneca in the preclinical
assessment of its various proprietary therapeutic cells in combination with our Cell Pouch.”
AstraZeneca is exploring the use of Sernova’s Cell Pouch System as a potential platform for integration with its
development of the next wave of innovative cell therapies for various indications. Under the terms of the
collaboration, AstraZeneca will lead and completely fund the development of the cell technologies and pre-
clinical activities in conjunction with Sernova. The discovery work is being funded and conducted at
AstraZeneca. The preclinical research outcomes will determine the feasibility of potential therapeutic
applications and subsequent product development activities between the two companies.
ABOUT SERNOVA CORP. AND THE CELL POUCH SYSTEM PLATFORM FOR CELL THERAPY
Sernova Corp. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that is developing therapeutic cell technologies for
chronic diseases, including insulin-dependent diabetes, thyroid disease, and blood disorders that include
hemophilia A. Sernova is currently focused on developing a ‘functional cure’ for insulin-dependent diabetes
with its lead asset, the Cell Pouch System, a novel implantable and scalable medical device with immune
protected therapeutic cells. On implantation, The Cell Pouch forms a natural vascularized tissue environment
in the body for long-term survival and function of therapeutic cells that release essential factors that are absent
or deficient in the bodies of patients with certain chronic diseases. Sernova’s Cell Pouch System has
demonstrated its potential to be a ‘functional cure’ for people with T1D in an ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical study
at the University of Chicago. Sernova is also advancing a proprietary technology in collaboration with the
University of Miami to shield therapeutic cells from immune system attack with the goal to eliminate the need
for chronic, systemic immunosuppression. In May 2022, Sernova and Evotec entered into a global strategic
partnership to develop an implantable off-the-shelf iPSC (induced pluripotent stem cells) based islet
replacement therapy. This partnership provides Sernova a potentially unlimited supply of insulin-producing
cells to treat millions of patients with insulin-dependent diabetes (type 1 and type 2). Sernova continues to
progress two additional development programs that utilize its Cell Pouch System: a cell therapy for hypothyroid
disease resulting from thyroid gland removal and an ex vivo lentiviral Factor VIII gene therapy for hemophilia A.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Corporate:
Christopher Barnes
VP, Investor Relations
Sernova Corp.
christopher.barnes@sernova.com
Tel: 519-902-7923
www.sernova.com
Investors:
Corey Davis, Ph.D.
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
cdavis@lifesciadvisors.com
Tel: 212-915-2577
Media:
Elizabeth Miller, M.D.
LifeSci Communications
emiller@lifescicomms.com
Tel: 646-791-9705
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This release contains statements that, to the extent they are not recitations of historical facts, may constitute
“forward-looking statements” that involve various risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including, without
limitation, statements regarding the prospects, plans, and objectives of the company. Wherever possible, but
not always, words such as "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects",
"potential for" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should"
occur are used to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management’s beliefs with
respect to future events and are based on information currently available to management on the date such
statements were made. Many factors could cause Sernova’s actual results, performances or achievements to
not be as anticipated, estimated or intended or to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the
forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Such factors could include, but are not limited to,
the company’s ability to secure additional financing and licensing arrangements on reasonable terms, or at all;
ability to conduct all required preclinical and clinical studies for the company’s Cell Pouch System and or
related technologies, including the timing and results of those trials; ability to obtain all necessary regulatory
approvals, or on a timely basis; ability to in-license additional complementary technologies; ability to execute
its business strategy and successfully compete in the market; and the inherent risks associated with the
development of biotechnology combination products generally. Many of the factors are beyond our control,
including those caused by, related to, or impacted by the novel coronavirus pandemic. Investors should consult
the company’s quarterly and annual filings available on www.sedar.com for additional information on risks and
uncertainties relating to the forward-looking statements. Sernova expressly disclaims any intention or
obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future
events or otherwise.
Press Release Communiqué de presse - April 28, 2023 28 April, 2023
SERNOVA CORP. ANNOUNCES VOTING RESULTS OF THE 2023 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
LONDON, Ontario - April 28, 2023 - Sernova Corp. (“Sernova” or the “Corporation”) (TSX:SVA)
(OTCQB:SEOVF) (FSE/XETRA:PSH), a clinical-stage regenerative medicine company and leader in cell
therapeutics focused on developing a potential ‘functional cure’ for type 1 diabetes (T1D) and other chronic
diseases, is pleased to announce results from its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (the “AGM”), held
virtually via live audio webcast on April 27, 2023.
The following resolutions were proposed and approved at the AGM:
- Dr. Philip M. Toleikis, James T. Parsons, Deborah M. Brown, Dr. Mohammad Azab, Dr. Daniel Mahony, Brett
Whalen, Dr. Steven Sangha and Bertram von Plettenberg were elected as directors of the Corporation for the
ensuing year.
- Appointment of KPMG LLP, as auditors of the Company until the next annual meeting and the authorization
of the directors of the Company to fix the remuneration to be paid to the auditors.
The resolution to ratify and confirm amendments to the Option Plan and DSU Plan and to increase the
maximum number of Common Shares reserved for issuance was not tabled at the AGM and as such the current
incentive plan without the amendments continues in effect.
“As they transition out of their director roles, I would like to acknowledge Frank Holler and Jeffrey Bacha’s
many years of contributions to Sernova’s Board of Directors,” said Dr. Philip Toleikis, President & CEO of
Sernova Corp. “With today’s results, I would also like to welcome our two new directors, Dr. Steven Sangha and
Bertram von Plettenberg to the company. We look forward to working with them as we strive to advance the
Cell Pouch™ and work to create other therapeutic options for patients with chronic diseases.
“We are honored to be given the opportunity to represent the voice of all shareholders. As directors on the
Board of Sernova, we will work hard to ensure the best interests of the company, shareholders and all other
stakeholders are addressed in a timely manner,” said Dr. Steven Sangha and Bertram von Plettenberg.
ABOUT SERNOVA CORP.
Sernova Corp. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that is developing regenerative medicine therapeutic
technologies for chronic diseases, including insulin-dependent diabetes, thyroid disease, and blood disorders
including hemophilia A. Sernova is currently focused on developing a ‘functional cure’ for insulin-dependent
diabetes with its lead asset, the Cell-Pouch System, a novel implantable and scalable medical device with
immune protected therapeutic cells. The Cell Pouch on implantation forms a natural vascularized tissue
environment in the body for long-term survival and function of therapeutic cells that release necessary proteins
or factors missing from the body to treat chronic diseases. Sernova’s Cell Pouch System has already shown it
can potentially provide a ‘functional cure’ to people with type 1 diabetes in an ongoing Phase I/II clinical study
at the University of Chicago. Sernova is also advancing a proprietary technology in collaboration with the
University of Miami to cloak the therapeutic cells from the immune system attack with the goal to eliminate the
need for chronic immunosuppressives. In May 2022, Sernova and Evotec entered into a global strategic
partnership to develop an implantable off-the-shelf iPSC-based (induced pluripotent stem cells) beta cell
replacement therapy. This partnership provides Sernova an unlimited supply of insulin-producing cells to treat
millions of patients with insulin-dependent diabetes (type 1 and type 2). Sernova is also gearing up to be in the
clinic in two additional programs that utilize its Cell Pouch System – an implantable cell therapy for benign
thyroid disease resulting from thyroid gland removal and an ex-vivo lentiviral factor 8 gene therapy for
hemophilia A.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Corporate:
Christopher Barnes
VP, Investor Relations
Sernova Corp.
christopher.barnes@sernova.com
519-902-7923
www.sernova.com
Investors:
Corey Davis, Ph.D.
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
cdavis@lifesciadvisors.com
212-915-2577
Media:
Elizabeth Miller, M.D.
LifeSci Communications
emiller@lifescicomms.com
646-791-9705
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This release contains statements that, to the extent they are not recitations of historical facts, may constitute
“forward-looking statements” that involve various risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including, without
limitation, statements regarding the prospects, plans, and objectives of the company. Wherever possible, but
not always, words such as "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects",
"potential for" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should"
occur are used to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management’s beliefs with
respect to future events and are based on information currently available to management on the date such
statements were made. Many factors could cause Sernova’s actual results, performances or achievements to
not be as anticipated, estimated or intended or to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the
forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Such factors could include, but are not limited to,
the company’s ability to secure additional financing and licensing arrangements on reasonable terms, or at all;
ability to conduct all required preclinical and clinical studies for the company’s Cell Pouch System and or
related technologies, including the timing and results of those trials; ability to obtain all necessary regulatory
approvals, or on a timely basis; ability to in-license additional complementary technologies; ability to execute
its business strategy and successfully compete in the market; and the inherent risks associated with the
development of biotechnology combination products generally. Many of the factors are beyond our control,
including those caused by, related to, or impacted by the novel coronavirus pandemic. Investors should consult
the company’s quarterly and annual filings available on www.sedar.com for additional information on risks and
uncertainties relating to the forward-looking statements. Sernova expressly disclaims any intention or
obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future
events or otherwise.
Press Release Communiqué de presse - April 24, 2023 24 April, 2023
Successful Results Using Sernova's Cell Pouch System™ with Evotec's iPSC-Derived Islet-like Clusters for Type 1 Diabetes Presented at the 4th IPITA / HSCI / JDRF Summit
- Evotec’s scalable GMP manufacturing process has been designed to produce induced pluripotent stem cell
(iPSC)-derived islet-like clusters (ILCs) with high insulin-producing beta cell content as well as glucagon and
somatostatin (produced by alpha cells and delta cells, respectively), similar to human islets
- The ILCs are cryopreserved during manufacturing, enabling storage of mass volumes and cost efficient on-
demand worldwide delivery as required
- Results from a type 1 diabetes (T1D) preclinical model with Evotec’s ILCs implanted into Sernova’s Cell
Pouch™ demonstrated robust and durable insulin independence with blood C-peptide levels and glucose
tolerance test results equivalent to a test group with human islets
- An additional T1D study with Evotec’s ILCs demonstrated sustained normalization of blood sugar levels in
diabetic mice throughout the 320 day term of the study
- IND filing and Phase 1/2 clinical program with Sernova’s Cell Pouch and Evotec’s iPSC ILCs on track for 2024
LONDON, Ontario – April 24, 2023 – Sernova Corp. (TSX:SVA) (OTCQB:SEOVF) (FSE/XETRA:PSH), a clinical-
stage company and leader in cell therapeutics, today announced the presentation of preclinical data supporting
the anticipated 2024 IND submission and planned Phase 1/2 clinical trial of Evotec SE’s (FSE: EVT; NASDAQ:
EVO) iPSC-derived ILCs in combination with Sernova’s implantable Cell Pouch device for the treatment of
patients with T1D. The objective of the partnership is to produce an off-the-shelf, commercially scalable cell
therapy treatment, with human testing anticipated to begin in 2024.
The data were presented by Matthias Austen, PhD, SVP Cell Therapy at Evotec SE (Evotec), as an oral podium
presentation at the 4th International Pancreas and Islet Transplant Association (IPITA) / Harvard Stem Cell
Institute (HSCI) / Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund (JDRF) Summit, held from April 24-25, 2023 in Cambridge,
Massachusetts. The presentation included an introduction to Evotec’s proprietary GMP process for
manufacturing iPSC-derived ILCs for use in Sernova’s Cell Pouch, as well as encouraging results from multiple
studies using a standard mouse model of T1D.
Key findings:
- Evotec has developed a scalable GMP manufacturing workflow, starting from GMP-grade iPSCs to the final
product of ILCs, yielding a high beta cell fraction with no post-implantation variability of cell composition.
- Evotec ILCs are cryopreserved at a late-intermediate stage of differentiation allowing for a cost-effective
large-scale manufacturing process to optimize both pre- and post-implantation durability, offering a major
advantage over competing cell therapies in development.
- ILCs implanted to mouse kidney capsule demonstrated complete and durable normalization of glucose levels
in a standard diabetic mouse model out to the pre-planned termination date at 320 days.
- ILCs implanted into Sernova’s Cell Pouch demonstrated rapid normalization of glycemic control in the
streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic NSG (NOD.SCID.IL-2Rgammanull) mouse model.
- Circulating C-peptide levels (a biomarker for insulin production) in mice implanted with the Cell Pouch and
ILCs were equivalent after 6 weeks to those in mice that received 4000 IEQ human islets under the kidney
capsule.
- Efficient glucose clearance and no hypoglycemia was demonstrated in an oral glucose tolerance test
administered at 8 weeks post-implantation. Animals implanted with Cell Pouch and ILCs showed an identical
glucose clearance time course compared to animals transplanted with 4000 IEQ human islets.
- Upon explantation of the Cell Pouch with ILCs after the 32-week survival period, histological graft analyses
showed the presence of all relevant islet cell types including insulin-producing beta cells, glucagon-producing
alpha cells, and somatostatin-producing delta cells, indicating a favorable cell composition of the implanted
ILCs.
- Histological graft analyses also revealed extensive intra-graft vascularization, likely contributing to the
excellent endocrine cell survival with a high beta cell fraction, and consistent with the observed functional
outcomes.
“Our ongoing productive partnership with Evotec continues to progress towards human clinical trials in 2024
with an impressive cell therapy paired with our Cell Pouch to create a potential ‘functional cure’ for T1D,” said
Dr. Philip Toleikis, President and Chief Executive Officer of Sernova. “These results demonstrate that Evotec’s
ILCs in the Cell Pouch can become fully functional endocrine islets following implantation, with potency
equivalent to human islets. Our goal is to advance beyond decades-old insulin injections to provide a potential
one-time treatment to restore normal pancreatic glycemic control for individuals with T1D. We look forward to
providing an update at the American Diabetes Association conference in June on our ongoing Phase 1/2 study
in T1D patients with our Cell Pouch containing human donor islet cells and to progressing our next generation
product utilizing Evotec cells into the clinic in 2024.”
Dr. Cord Dohrmann, Chief Scientific Officer of Evotec commented, “We are thrilled to show these results with
Evotec’s ILCs that we have spent years perfecting with a scalable cost-effective GMP workflow to create a
cryopreserved product with excellent survival under standard shipping conditions and optimized for
implantation into Sernova’s Cell Pouch. These new data demonstrating rapid, complete, and durable
normalization of glucose control that is equi-potent comparable in potency to human islets is one of the final
steps prior to our anticipated human testing in 2024.”
ABOUT SERNOVA CORP. AND THE CELL POUCH SYSTEM PLATFORM FOR CELL THERAPY
Sernova Corp. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that is developing therapeutic cell technologies for
chronic diseases, including insulin-dependent diabetes, thyroid disease, and blood disorders that include
hemophilia A. Sernova is currently focused on developing a ‘functional cure’ for insulin-dependent diabetes
with its lead asset, the Cell Pouch System, a novel implantable and scalable medical device with immune
protected therapeutic cells. On implantation, the Cell Pouch forms a natural vascularized tissue environment in
the body for long-term survival and function of therapeutic cells that release essential factors that are absent or
deficient in the bodies of patients with certain chronic diseases. Sernova’s Cell Pouch System has demonstrated
its potential to be a ‘functional cure’ for people with T1D in an ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical study at the University
of Chicago. Sernova is also advancing a proprietary technology in collaboration with the University of Miami to
shield therapeutic cells from immune system attack with the goal to eliminate the need for chronic, systemic
immunosuppression. In May 2022, Sernova and Evotec entered into a global strategic partnership to develop
an implantable off-the-shelf iPSC (induced pluripotent stem cells) based islet replacement therapy. This
partnership provides Sernova a potentially unlimited supply of insulin-producing cells to treat millions of
patients with insulin-dependent diabetes (type 1 and type 2). Sernova has secured an exclusive option for an
exclusive global license for Evotec’s ethically derived iPSC insulin producing islet clusters for use with Sernova’s
Cell Pouch System or alone with other technologies. Sernova continues to progress two additional
development programs that utilize its Cell Pouch System: a cell therapy for hypothyroid disease resulting from
thyroid gland removal and an ex vivo lentiviral factor VIII gene therapy for hemophilia A.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Corporate:
Christopher Barnes
VP, Investor Relations
Sernova Corp.
christopher.barnes@sernova.com
Tel: 519-902-7923
www.sernova.com
Investors:
Corey Davis, Ph.D.
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
cdavis@lifesciadvisors.com
Tel: 212-915-2577
Media:
Elizabeth Miller, M.D.
LifeSci Communications
emiller@lifescicomms.com
Tel: 646-791-9705
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This release contains statements that, to the extent they are not recitations of historical facts, may constitute
“forward-looking statements” that involve various risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including, without
limitation, statements regarding the prospects, plans, and objectives of the company. Wherever possible, but
not always, words such as "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects",
"potential for" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should"
occur are used to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management’s beliefs with
respect to future events and are based on information currently available to management on the date such
statements were made. Many factors could cause Sernova’s actual results, performances or achievements to
not be as anticipated, estimated or intended or to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the
forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Such factors could include, but are not limited to,
the company’s ability to secure additional financing and licensing arrangements on reasonable terms, or at all;
ability to conduct all required preclinical and clinical studies for the company’s Cell Pouch System and or
related technologies, including the timing and results of those trials; ability to obtain all necessary regulatory
approvals, or on a timely basis; ability to in-license additional complementary technologies; ability to execute
its business strategy and successfully compete in the market; and the inherent risks associated with the
development of biotechnology combination products generally. Many of the factors are beyond our control,
including those caused by, related to, or impacted by the novel coronavirus pandemic. Investors should consult
the company’s quarterly and annual filings available on www.sedar.com for additional information on risks and
uncertainties relating to the forward-looking statements. Sernova expressly disclaims any intention or
obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future
events or otherwise.
Press Release Communiqué de presse - April 21, 2023 21 April, 2023
Sernova Reminds Shareholders to Vote FOR the Eight Management Director Nominees Using ONLY the WHITE Management Proxy
- Protect your investment in Sernova by voting FOR all of Sernova Management’s director nominees.
- ISS and Glass Lewis, independent third-party proxy advisory firms, both recommend that shareholders vote
FOR Sernova’s eight management nominees and not to vote for the dissident nominees.
- The deadline to submit WHITE management proxies is Tuesday April 25, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. (Pacific time)
- Shareholders who have questions or need assistance with voting their shares voting should contact Sernova
Corp.’s strategic advisor and proxy solicitation agent Laurel Hill Advisory Group by telephone at 1-877-452-
7184 or by email at assistance@laurelhill.com.
LONDON, Ontario – April 21, 2023 – Sernova Corp. (“Sernova” or the “Corporation”) (TSX: SVA) (OTCQB:
SEOVF) (FSE/XETRA: PSH), reminds shareholders to vote the WHITE management proxy in advance of the
proxy voting deadline on Tuesday April 25, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. (Pacific Time) FOR all of the Sernova
management director nominees. We thank the many shareholders who have already voted FOR Sernova’s
management nominees using the WHITE proxy and urge those who have not voted yet to cast their vote using
the WHITE proxy —every shareholder and every share counts.
Shareholders are encouraged to read Sernova’s management information circular, the letter to shareholders
the Corporation recently mailed to all shareholders and press releases by visiting Sernova - AGM Annual
General Meeting, for details about how a group of dissident shareholders is trying to impose two unqualified
nominees on Sernova’s board of directors.
Sernova’s Board Nominees – The Right Team with the Right Experience
Sernova’s nominees, Frank Holler, Dr. Mohammad Azab, Jeffery Bacha, Deborah Brown, Dr. Daniel Mahony,
James Parsons, Dr. Philip Toleikis and Brett Whalen possess the skills Sernova needs to continue the
successful execution the Corporation’s plan to progress Sernova to its next stage of development:
- Significant expertise and experience in leading biotech companies. Sernova’s nominees all have significant
breadth and depth of expertise and experience in directing public biotech, pharmaceutical, and healthcare
sector companies in Canada and elsewhere.
- Director Qualifications. Sernova’s nominees each have deep biotechnology industry experience
encompassing relevant capabilities in finance, product and corporate development. The board has been
developed and refreshed over time against a specific skills matrix with currently 50% of the board having
served for less than 4 years.
- Strong Financial and Cash Position. Sernova ended Q1 2023 with a strong balance sheet including cash
resources of $45.6 million. Since the April 2022 annual meeting of shareholders, proceeds of $8 million were
raised from the full exercise of the remaining outstanding 2019 and 2020 private placement common share
purchase warrants. Additionally, the Company completed a private placement with strategic partner Evotec
resulting in a total equity investment of $27 million.
In addition, within the last year, Sernova’s Board and management team have made significant progress with a
‘functional cure’ for insulin-dependent diabetes with its lead asset, the Cell Pouch System (“CPS”), a novel
implantable medical device with immune protected therapeutic cells. With a strong management and Board of
Directors in the last 12 months the Company has:
- In May, 2022 - Entered into a global strategic partnership with Evotec SE (“Evotec”) to develop an
implantable off-the-shelf iPSC (induced pluripotent stem cells) based islet replacement therapy. This
partnership provides Sernova a potentially unlimited supply of insulin-producing islet clusters to treat millions
of patients with insulin-dependent diabetes (both type 1 and type 2).
- In June, 2022 - Transitioned the Company from the TSX Venture Exchange to the TSX as part of the
Company’s capital markets strategy to access a broader base of investors and position the Company more
favourably for institutional investment.
- In January 2023 - The Company announced the confirmation of its hypothyroid program proof-of concept,
demonstrating that thyroid auto-transplantation in the Cell Pouch can compensate for removal of the thyroid
gland and restore normal thyroid hormone production – potentially a lifechanging treatment for patients who
have gone through the thyroid gland removal procedure.
Vote FOR your Management Nominees using ONLY Management’s WHITE Proxy
Voting is easy. We encourage you to vote online or by telephone using the information on your WHITE proxy.
Shareholders who have voted using the dissident’s GOLD proxy and wish to support Sernova’s management
nominees still have the right to change their vote by simply voting FOR Sernova’s management nominees using
the WHITE proxy. A later dated WHITE proxy will replace a previously submitted vote.
YOUR VOTE HAS NEVER BEEN MORE IMPORTANT. VOTE YOUR SHARES FOR SERNOVA’S MANAGEMENT
NOMINEES AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, REGARDLESS OF THE NUMBER OF SHARES YOU OWN
Shareholders are encouraged to vote your shares as soon as possible. The deadline for voting your shares is at
10:00 a.m. (Pacific Time) on Tuesday April 25, 2023.
Sernova’s board of directors recommends that shareholders vote FOR all of the management director
nominees and meeting resolutions using only the WHITE proxy.
Shareholder Questions
Shareholders who have any questions or require assistance with voting may contact Sernova’s proxy solicitation
agent and shareholder communications advisor:
Laurel Hill Advisory Group
Toll Free: 1-877-452-7184 (for shareholders in North America)
International: +1 416-304-0211 (for shareholders outside Canada and the US)
By Email: assistance@laurelhill.com
ABOUT SERNOVA CORP. AND THE CELL POUCH SYSTEM PLATFORM FOR CELL THERAPY
Sernova Corp. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that is developing therapeutic cell technologies for
chronic diseases, including insulin-dependent diabetes, thyroid disease, and blood disorders that include
hemophilia A. Sernova is currently focused on developing a ‘functional cure’ for insulin-dependent diabetes
with its lead asset, the Cell Pouch System, a novel implantable and scalable medical device with immune
protected therapeutic cells. On implantation, the Cell Pouch forms a natural vascularized tissue environment in
the body for long-term survival and function of therapeutic cells that release essential factors that are absent
or deficient in the bodies of patients with certain chronic diseases. Sernova’s Cell Pouch System has
demonstrated its potential to be a ‘functional cure’ for people with T1D in an ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical study
at the University of Chicago. Sernova is also advancing a proprietary technology in collaboration with the
University of Miami to shield therapeutic cells from immune system attack with the goal to eliminate the need
for chronic, systemic immunosuppression. In May 2022, Sernova and Evotec entered into a global strategic
partnership to develop an implantable off-the-shelf iPSC (induced pluripotent stem cells) based islet
replacement therapy. This partnership provides Sernova a potentially unlimited supply of insulin-producing
cells to treat millions of patients with insulin-dependent diabetes (type 1 and type 2). Sernova continues to
progress two additional development programs that utilize its Cell Pouch System: a cell therapy for
hypothyroid disease resulting from thyroid gland removal and an ex vivo lentiviral Factor VIII gene therapy for
hemophilia A.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Corporate
Christopher Barnes
VP, Investor Relations
Sernova Corp.
christopher.barnes@sernova.com
Tel: 519-902-7923
www.sernova.com
Investors
Corey Davis, Ph.D.
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
cdavis@lifesciadvisors.com
Tel: 212-915-2577
Media
Elizabeth Miller, M.D.
LifeSci Communications
emiller@lifescicomms.com
Tel: 646-791-9705
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This release contains statements that, to the extent they are not recitations of historical facts, may constitute
“forward-looking statements” that involve various risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including, without
limitation, statements regarding the prospects, plans, and objectives of the company. Wherever possible, but
not always, words such as "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects",
"potential for" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or
"should" occur are used to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management’s
beliefs with respect to future events and are based on information currently available to management on the
date such statements were made. Many factors could cause Sernova’s actual results, performances or
achievements to not be as anticipated, estimated or intended or to differ materially from those expressed or
implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Such factors could include, but are
not limited to, the company’s ability to secure additional financing and licensing arrangements on reasonable
terms, or at all; ability to conduct all required preclinical and clinical studies for the company’s Cell Pouch
System and or related technologies, including the timing and results of those trials; ability to obtain all
necessary regulatory approvals, or on a timely basis; ability to in-license additional complementary
technologies; ability to execute its business strategy and successfully compete in the market; and the inherent
risks associated with the development of biotechnology combination products generally. Many of the factors
are beyond our control, including those caused by, related to, or impacted by the novel coronavirus pandemic.
Investors should consult the company’s quarterly and annual filings available on www.sedar.com for additional
information on risks and uncertainties relating to the forward-looking statements. Sernova expressly disclaims
any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new
information, future events or otherwise.
Press Release Communiqué de presse - April 18, 2023 18 April, 2023
Two Independent Proxy Advisory Firms, Including Glass Lewis & Co. LLC. Recommend Sernova's Shareholders Vote FOR all Management Nominees on Management's White Proxy
- Following Institutional Shareholder Services’ positive recommendations, Glass Lewis is the second
independent, third-party proxy advisory firm to recommend Sernova’s shareholders vote FOR all
management’s director nominees using ONLY management’s WHITE proxy.
- Glass Lewis does not believe Sernova’s dissident shareholders have compiled a sufficiently compelling case
to warrant investor support and refers to their arguments as “incomplete”.
- Shareholders who have questions or need assistance with voting their shares should contact Sernova Corp.’s
strategic advisor and proxy solicitation agent Laurel Hill Advisory Group by telephone at 1-877-452-7184 or by
email at assistance@laurelhill.com.
LONDON, Ontario – April 18, 2023 – Sernova Corp. (“Sernova” or the “Corporation”) (TSX: SVA) (OTCQB:
SEOVF) (FSE/XETRA: PSH), a clinical-stage company and leader in cell therapeutics, is pleased to announce
that a second independent, third-party proxy advisory firm, Glass Lewis & Co. LLC (“Glass Lewis”), has
recommended Sernova’s shareholders vote FOR all of Sernova’s management nominees using only
management’s WHITE proxy.
Glass Lewis also recommended that shareholders vote FOR the appointment of KPMG LLP as Sernova’s
auditors and FOR the resolution to amend the Corporation’s stock option plan and DSU Plan.
Glass Lewis is a leading independent, third-party proxy advisory firm which provides proxy voting
recommendations to pension funds, investment managers, mutual funds, and other institutional shareholders.
Reasons for Glass Lewis’ Support of Sernova’s Management Nominees
Glass Lewis’ recommendation that shareholders vote FOR all of Sernova’s management nominees using only
management’s WHITE proxy, is based on a number of factors. Glass Lewis’ report states:
“In this case… we do not believe the Dissidents have compiled a sufficiently compelling case to warrant investor
support at this time. Our view in this regard hinges on three principal factors: (i) the Dissidents overall case
against incumbent management and the board is fairly broad and arguably incomplete, with core analyses (e.g.
share price performance) lacking context and certain strategic commentary failing to offer much depth relative
to the board's much more copious rebuttal; (ii) the need to pursue the Dissidents' promulgated alternatives for
the Company (i.e. positioning Sernova to secure additional financing within the next 18 months, investing in a
go-to-market strategy, solidifying succession planning) is not especially well established, in our view,
particularly given the Company's stable capital position and relationship with Evotec; and (iii) the Dissident
nominees — which include a dentist with unspecified experience investing in early stage companies and a
business consultant with a prior relationship with Sernova — do not appear to represent a clear, incremental
improvement over the incumbent board members.
We also consider the board has, with due reference to Sernova's development stage and size, offered a
reasonably well-rounded corporate update, touching both on the Company's prior milestones and anticipated
near-term developments. The board also draws attention to Sernova's currently adequate capital position,
which, though certainly not intended to serve as an indefinite bulwark against future funding requirements,
appears to offer Sernova sufficient near-term liquidity and structural flexibility.
Under these conditions, we do not see that the Dissidents have provided Sernova investors with sufficient cause
to support their agenda at this time.”
Glass Lewis Recommends Support of Sernova’s Proposed Securities Authorized for Issuance Under its Equity
Compensation Plans
Glass Lewis recommended that shareholders vote FOR the resolution to amend the Corporation’s stock option
plan and DSU Plan, as the proxy advisory firm believes the terms of the plan are in line with the majority of
similar equity-based plans of TSX issuers. Glass Lewis’ view is that the plan will serve to strengthen the
alignment of company and shareholder interests. The Corporation believes that encouraging its executive
officers, senior management and employees to become shareholders is the best way of aligning their interests
with those of its long-term shareholders. As a result, executive officers management and employees are
provided with the opportunity to participate in the appreciation of the Corporation’s share price, through
Sernova’s equity compensation incentive plan.
Vote FOR your Management Nominees using ONLY Management’s WHITE Proxy
It is up to you to protect the value of your investment in Sernova by voting FOR the eight management
nominees. We encourage you to read Sernova’s management information circular and visit our website at
www.sernova.com for more information. It is important that you ACT TODAY to protect your investment by
voting FOR Sernova’s management nominees.
Sernova’s management nominees, Frank Holler, Dr. Mohammad Azab, Jeffery Bacha, Deborah Brown, Dr.
Daniel Mahony, James Parsons, Dr. Philip Toleikis and Brett Whalen are committed to creating value for the
Company’s shareholders through delivering results from clinical trials, expanding the Sernova’s Cell Pouch
System™ technology platform for additional indications, and building on the relationships with the
Corporation’s business partners to create long term shareholder value.
YOUR VOTE HAS NEVER BEEN MORE IMPORTANT. VOTE YOUR SHARES FOR SERNOVA’S MANAGEMENT
NOMINEES AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, REGARDLESS OF THE NUMBER OF SHARES YOU OWN
Shareholders are encouraged to read Sernova’s management information circular and vote your shares as soon
as possible. The deadline for voting your shares is at 10:00 a.m. (Pacific Time) on Tuesday, April 25, 2023.
Sernova’s board of directors recommends that shareholders vote FOR all of the management director
nominees and meeting resolutions using only the WHITE proxy.
Shareholder Questions
Shareholders who have any questions or require assistance with voting may contact Sernova’s proxy solicitation
agent and shareholder communications advisor:
Laurel Hill Advisory Group
Toll Free: 1-877-452-7184 (for shareholders in North America)
International: +1 416-304-0211 (for shareholders outside Canada and the US)
By Email: assistance@laurelhill.com
ABOUT SERNOVA CORP. AND THE CELL POUCH SYSTEM PLATFORM FOR CELL THERAPY
Sernova Corp. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that is developing therapeutic cell technologies for
chronic diseases, including insulin-dependent diabetes, thyroid disease, and blood disorders that include
hemophilia A. Sernova is currently focused on developing a ‘functional cure’ for insulin-dependent diabetes
with its lead asset, the Cell Pouch System, a novel implantable and scalable medical device with immune
protected therapeutic cells. On implantation, the Cell Pouch forms a natural vascularized tissue environment in
the body for long-term survival and function of therapeutic cells that release essential factors that are absent
or deficient in the bodies of patients with certain chronic diseases. Sernova’s Cell Pouch System has
demonstrated its potential to be a ‘functional cure’ for people with T1D in an ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical study
at the University of Chicago. Sernova is also advancing a proprietary technology in collaboration with the
University of Miami to shield therapeutic cells from immune system attack with the goal to eliminate the need
for chronic, systemic immunosuppression. In May 2022, Sernova and Evotec entered into a global strategic
partnership to develop an implantable off-the-shelf iPSC (induced pluripotent stem cells) based islet
replacement therapy. This partnership provides Sernova a potentially unlimited supply of insulin-producing
cells to treat millions of patients with insulin-dependent diabetes (type 1 and type 2). Sernova continues to
progress two additional development programs that utilize its Cell Pouch System: a cell therapy for
hypothyroid disease resulting from thyroid gland removal and an ex vivo lentiviral Factor VIII gene therapy for
hemophilia A.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Corporate
Christopher Barnes
VP, Investor Relations
Sernova Corp.
christopher.barnes@sernova.com
Tel: 519-902-7923
www.sernova.com
Investors
Corey Davis, Ph.D.
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
cdavis@lifesciadvisors.com
Tel: 212-915-2577
Media
Elizabeth Miller, M.D.
LifeSci Communications
emiller@lifescicomms.com
Tel: 646-791-9705
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This release contains statements that, to the extent they are not recitations of historical facts, may constitute
“forward-looking statements” that involve various risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including, without
limitation, statements regarding the prospects, plans, and objectives of the company. Wherever possible, but
not always, words such as "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends",
"estimates", "projects", "potential for" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would",
"may", "could" or "should" occur are used to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect
management’s beliefs with respect to future events and are based on information currently available to
management on the date such statements were made. Many factors could cause Sernova’s actual results,
performances or achievements to not be as anticipated, estimated or intended or to differ materially from
those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Such factors
could include, but are not limited to, the company’s ability to secure additional financing and licensing
arrangements on reasonable terms, or at all; ability to conduct all required preclinical and clinical studies for
the company’s Cell Pouch System and or related technologies, including the timing and results of those trials;
ability to obtain all necessary regulatory approvals, or on a timely basis; ability to in-license additional
complementary technologies; ability to execute its business strategy and successfully compete in the market;
and the inherent risks associated with the development of biotechnology combination products generally. Many
of the factors are beyond our control, including those caused by, related to, or impacted by the novel
coronavirus pandemic. Investors should consult the company’s quarterly and annual filings available on
www.sedar.com for additional information on risks and uncertainties relating to the forward-looking
statements. Sernova expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking
statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Press Release Communiqué de presse - April 14, 2023 14 April, 2023
Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. Recommends Sernova's Shareholders Vote FOR all Management Nominees on Management's White Proxy
- ISS, an independent, third-party proxy advisory firm, recommends Sernova’s shareholders vote FOR all
management’s director nominees using ONLY management’s WHITE proxy.
- ISS notes the dissidents failed to present a detailed explanation of their case and there does not seem to be a
compelling case that change at Sernova is warranted at this time.
- Shareholders who have questions or need assistance with voting their shares voting should contact Sernova
Corp.’s strategic advisor and proxy solicitation agent Laurel Hill Advisory Group by telephone at 1-877-452-
7184 or by email at assistance@laurelhill.com.
LONDON, Ontario – April 14, 2023 – Sernova Corp. (“Sernova” or the “Corporation”) (TSX: SVA) (OTCQB:
SEOVF) (FSE/XETRA: PSH), a clinical-stage company and leader in cell therapeutics, is pleased to announce
that Institutional Shareholders Services Inc. (“ISS”) has recommended Sernova’s shareholders vote FOR all of
Sernova’s management nominees using only management’s WHITE proxy.
ISS is a leading independent, third-party proxy advisory firm which provides proxy voting recommendations to
pension funds, investment managers, mutual funds, and other institutional shareholders.
Reasons for ISS’ Support of Sernova’s Management Nominees
In reaching its conclusion to recommend that Sernova’s shareholders vote FOR the Corporation’s management
nominees and reject the attempt of a group of dissident shareholders to impose their director nominees on
Sernova, ISS provided a number of reasons including the following:
“As the dissident has failed to present a detailed explanation of its case, there does not seem to be a
compelling case that change is warranted at this time. The case for change is further impaired by the fact that
the dissident has targeted two of the more tenured and experienced board members…. As such, the election of
the dissidents to the board carries risk to cause an additional near-term impact at the management level which
diverges from a status quo that does not seem unreasonable. Shareholders are therefore recommended to vote
on the management proxy card for the eight management nominees.”
ISS’ review of dissident shareholders reasons for proposing change on Sernova’s board shows that a number of
claims the dissidents made in their communications with Sernova’s shareholders are unsubstantiated:
“The dissident's arguments do not provide context in support of its claims, and the proposed solution does not
include a reasoned basis for how it could lead to a superior outcome. As the dissident has not made a
compelling case that board change is necessary at this time, votes on the management proxy card for the eight
management nominees are warranted…. Moreover, the company's ability to secure relevant industry
partnerships, as evidenced by its agreement secured with Evotec during 2022, seems difficult to call into
question. The board has overseen the successful up-listing of the company to the TSX and there are members
of the incumbent board which have sat on NASDAQ-listed biotech boards. In addition, the company seems to
communicate interim data or study progress updates to shareholders multiple times annually and continues to
provide this information at investor conferences, making broad-based allegations with respect to company
communication look dubious.”
Vote FOR your Management Nominees using ONLY Management’s WHITE Proxy
It is up to you to protect the value of your investment in Sernova by voting FOR the eight management
nominees. We encourage you to read Sernova’s management information circular and visit our website at
www.sernova.com for more information. It is important that you ACT TODAY to protect your investment by
voting FOR Sernova’s management nominees.
Sernova’s management nominees, Frank Holler, Dr. Mohammad Azab, Jeffery Bacha, Deborah Brown, Dr.
Daniel Mahony, James Parsons, Dr. Philip Toleikis and Brett Whalen have reputational credibility in capital
markets to finance the growth of the Company. Sernova’s board and management team are committed to
creating value for the Corporation’s shareholders through delivering results from clinical trials, driving
preclinical programs, expanding the application of Sernova’s Cell Pouch System technology.
YOUR VOTE HAS NEVER BEEN MORE IMPORTANT. VOTE YOUR SHARES FOR SERNOVA’S MANAGEMENT
NOMINEES AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, REGARDLESS OF THE NUMBER OF SHARES YOU OWN
Shareholders are encouraged to read Sernova’s management information circular and vote your shares as soon
as possible. The deadline for voting your shares is at 10:00 a.m. (Pacific Time) on Tuesday April 25, 2023.
Sernova’s board of directors recommends that shareholders vote FOR all of the management director nominees
and meeting resolutions using only the WHITE proxy.
Shareholder Questions
Shareholders who have any questions or require assistance with voting may contact Sernova’s proxy solicitation
agent and shareholder communications advisor:
Laurel Hill Advisory Group
Toll Free: 1-877-452-7184 (for shareholders in North America)
International: +1 416-304-0211 (for shareholders outside Canada and the US)
By Email: assistance@laurelhill.com
ABOUT SERNOVA CORP. AND THE CELL POUCH SYSTEM PLATFORM FOR CELL THERAPY
Sernova Corp. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that is developing therapeutic cell technologies for
chronic diseases, including insulin-dependent diabetes, thyroid disease, and blood disorders that include
hemophilia A. Sernova is currently focused on developing a ‘functional cure’ for insulin-dependent diabetes
with its lead asset, the Cell Pouch System, a novel implantable and scalable medical device with immune
protected therapeutic cells. On implantation, the Cell Pouch forms a natural vascularized tissue environment in
the body for long-term survival and function of therapeutic cells that release essential factors that are absent or
deficient in the bodies of patients with certain chronic diseases. Sernova’s Cell Pouch System has demonstrated
its potential to be a ‘functional cure’ for people with T1D in an ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical study at the University
of Chicago. Sernova is also advancing a proprietary technology in collaboration with the University of Miami to
shield therapeutic cells from immune system attack with the goal to eliminate the need for chronic, systemic
immunosuppression. In May 2022, Sernova and Evotec entered into a global strategic partnership to develop
an implantable off-the-shelf iPSC (induced pluripotent stem cells) based islet replacement therapy. This
partnership provides Sernova a potentially unlimited supply of insulin-producing cells to treat millions of
patients with insulin-dependent diabetes (type 1 and type 2). Sernova continues to progress two additional
development programs that utilize its Cell Pouch System: a cell therapy for hypothyroid disease resulting from
thyroid gland removal and an ex vivo lentiviral Factor VIII gene therapy for hemophilia A.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Corporate
Christopher Barnes
VP, Investor Relations
Sernova Corp.
christopher.barnes@sernova.com
Tel: 519-902-7923
www.sernova.com
Investor
Corey Davis, Ph.D.
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
cdavis@lifesciadvisors.com
Tel: 212-915-2577
Media
Elizabeth Miller, M.D.
LifeSci Communications
emiller@lifescicomms.com
Tel: 646-791-9705
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This release contains statements that, to the extent they are not recitations of historical facts, may constitute
“forward-looking statements” that involve various risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including, without
limitation, statements regarding the prospects, plans, and objectives of the company. Wherever possible, but
not always, words such as "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects",
"potential for" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should"
occur are used to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management’s beliefs with
respect to future events and are based on information currently available to management on the date such
statements were made. Many factors could cause Sernova’s actual results, performances or achievements to
not be as anticipated, estimated or intended or to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the
forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Such factors could include, but are not limited to,
the company’s ability to secure additional financing and licensing arrangements on reasonable terms, or at all;
ability to conduct all required preclinical and clinical studies for the company’s Cell Pouch System and or
related technologies, including the timing and results of those trials; ability to obtain all necessary regulatory
approvals, or on a timely basis; ability to in-license additional complementary technologies; ability to execute
its business strategy and successfully compete in the market; and the inherent risks associated with the
development of biotechnology combination products generally. Many of the factors are beyond our control,
including those caused by, related to, or impacted by the novel coronavirus pandemic. Investors should consult
the company’s quarterly and annual filings available on www.sedar.com for additional information on risks and
uncertainties relating to the forward-looking statements. Sernova expressly disclaims any intention or
obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future
events or otherwise.
Press Release Communiqué de presse - April 10, 2023 10 April, 2023
Sernova to Present at 2023 Alliance for Regenerative Medicine Cell & Gene Meeting on the Med
LONDON, Ontario – April 10, 2023 – Sernova Corp. (TSX:SVA) (OTCQB:SEOVF) (FSE/XETRA:PSH), a clinical-
stage company and leader in cell therapeutics, today announced that President and Chief Executive Officer, Dr.
Philip Toleikis, will present at the upcoming annual Cell & Gene Meeting on the Med to be held April 12-14,
2023 at the Hotel Arts Barcelona in Barcelona, Spain and livestreamed globally.
Panel: Navigating CGTx Development in 2023
Date: Wednesday, April 12, 2023
Time: 4:45 – 5:30 PM CET
Location: BioCentriq Ballroom | Hotel Arts Barcelona, Spain
Virtual attendance is available which includes a livestream of Sernova’s presentation and the ability to view all
conference sessions on-demand. Please visit https://meetingonthemed.com/ for full information including
registration.
Complimentary attendance at this event is available for credentialed investors. Investors should contact Laura
Stringham at lstringham@alliancerm.org.
ABOUT SERNOVA CORP. AND THE CELL POUCH SYSTEM PLATFORM FOR CELL THERAPY
Sernova Corp. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that is developing therapeutic cell technologies for
chronic diseases, including insulin-dependent diabetes, thyroid disease, and blood disorders that include
hemophilia A. Sernova is currently focused on developing a ‘functional cure’ for insulin-dependent diabetes
with its lead asset, the Cell Pouch System, a novel implantable and scalable medical device with immune
protected therapeutic cells. On implantation, the Cell Pouch forms a natural vascularized tissue environment in
the body for long-term survival and function of therapeutic cells that release essential factors that are absent
or deficient in the bodies of patients with certain chronic diseases. Sernova’s Cell Pouch System has
demonstrated its potential to be a ‘functional cure’ for people with T1D in an ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical study
at the University of Chicago. Sernova is also advancing a proprietary technology in collaboration with the
University of Miami to shield therapeutic cells from immune system attack with the goal to eliminate the need
for chronic, systemic immunosuppression. In May 2022, Sernova and Evotec entered into a global strategic
partnership to develop an implantable off-the-shelf iPSC (induced pluripotent stem cells) based islet
replacement therapy. This partnership provides Sernova a potentially unlimited supply of insulin-producing
cells to treat millions of patients with insulin-dependent diabetes (type 1 and type 2). Sernova continues to
progress two additional development programs that utilize its Cell Pouch System: a cell therapy for hypothyroid
disease resulting from thyroid gland removal and an ex vivo lentiviral Factor VIII gene therapy for hemophilia A.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Corporate:
Christopher Barnes
VP, Investor Relations
Sernova Corp.
christopher.barnes@sernova.com
Tel: 519-902-7923
www.sernova.com
Investors:
Corey Davis, Ph.D.
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
cdavis@lifesciadvisors.com
Tel: 212-915-2577
Media:
Elizabeth Miller, M.D.
LifeSci Communications
emiller@lifescicomms.com
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This release contains statements that, to the extent they are not recitations of historical facts, may constitute
“forward-looking statements” that involve various risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including, without
limitation, statements regarding the prospects, plans, and objectives of the company. Wherever possible, but
not always, words such as "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects",
"potential for" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should"
occur are used to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management’s beliefs with
respect to future events and are based on information currently available to management on the date such
statements were made. Many factors could cause Sernova’s actual results, performances or achievements to
not be as anticipated, estimated or intended or to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the
forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Such factors could include, but are not limited to,
the company’s ability to secure additional financing and licensing arrangements on reasonable terms, or at all;
ability to conduct all required preclinical and clinical studies for the company’s Cell Pouch System and or
related technologies, including the timing and results of those trials; ability to obtain all necessary regulatory
approvals, or on a timely basis; ability to in-license additional complementary technologies; ability to execute
its business strategy and successfully compete in the market; and the inherent risks associated with the
development of biotechnology combination products generally. Many of the factors are beyond our control,
including those caused by, related to, or impacted by the novel coronavirus pandemic. Investors should consult
the company’s quarterly and annual filings available on www.sedar.com for additional information on risks and
uncertainties relating to the forward-looking statements. Sernova expressly disclaims any intention or
obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future
events or otherwise.
Press Release Communiqué de presse - April 06, 2023 6 April, 2023
Sernova Responds to Dissident Shareholders' Misleading Statements and Provides Corporate Updates
- The dissident director nominees declined to follow proper protocol to participate in Sernova’s board renewal
process and instead are imposing themselves on the Company through a costly and disruptive proxy battle
- Management and the Board have placed Sernova in a position to bring value to shareholders and in a
challenging time for companies in the biotech sector, Sernova’s share price is up 17% year-to-date compared to
an 8% decline in the benchmark Nasdaq XBI biotech index over the same period
- Shareholders who have questions or need assistance with voting their shares should contact Sernova’s proxy
solicitation agent, Laurel Hill Advisory Group by telephone at 1-877-452-7184 or by email at
assistance@laurelhill.com
LONDON, Ontario – April 6, 2023 – Sernova Corp. (“Sernova” or the “Company”) (TSX:SVA) (OTCQB: SEOVF)
(FSE/XETRA:PSH), a clinical-stage company and leader in cell therapeutics, today responds to misleading
statements made in a press release from a group of dissident shareholders. Additionally, Sernova is pleased to
highlight select upcoming milestones for the remainder of 2023 and into 2024 and provides an update on key
achievements and events since the Company’s last annual general meeting (AGM) in 2022.
BACKGROUND TO DISSIDENT ACTIONS AND BOARD RENEWAL PROCESS
Leading up to the Company’s 2023 annual meeting of shareholders and pursuant to Sernova’s Advance Notice
By-law, the Company received two nominations for the position of director to Sernova’s board of directors (the
“Board”) from the dissident shareholders. A third candidate also expressed interest in joining Sernova’s board
of directors. With three candidates to consider for a single board seat, the board’s Nominating and Governance
Committee (the “NGC”) invited all three candidates to participate in a formal review and rigorous evaluation
process, including presentation of their respective credentials and expertise to the board. Following good
corporate governance practices, Sernova’s NGC evaluates candidates against formalized criteria and a skills
matrix that align with the Company’s current, and more importantly, future needs to ensure the best candidates
are selected as nominees for election to the board.
The Dissident Shareholders’ claim that the board did not meaningfully engage is simply untrue
- Only one candidate, Mr. Brett Whalen, chose to participate in the formal process. After rigorous evaluation,
vetting and determination that his background and experience would be beneficial to the future direction of the
Company, Mr. Brett Whalen was selected for nomination for election to the board at Sernova’s 2023 annual
meeting of shareholders.
- The two individuals nominated by the dissident shareholder group elected not to participate in the interview
process nor did they meet with Sernova’s board. Instead, they have chosen to go the route of a costly and
distracting proxy battle.
The Dissident Shareholders are opposing the revised / amended compensation plan based on their claim that
management unilaterally decreased their price from $1.30 to $0.91, which is simply untrue
- No outstanding stock options have been repriced by the Company nor is there any intention.
- The pricing of any future stock options granted by the Company would be in compliance with the policies of
the TSX.
The current board members are well positioned to build on the progress the Company has made to date and
take Sernova to its next stage of development as outlined under the Corporate Updates below.
CORPORATE UPDATES
Sernova’s board and management team are committed to creating value for the Company’s shareholders
through delivering results from clinical trials, driving preclinical programs, expanding the Company’s Cell Pouch
System technology platform to additional indications, and evolving industry relationships for potential future
partnership opportunities to create long term shareholder value. The Company is providing the following
updates to keep shareholders abreast of developments and work that will create value for shareholders.
BIOTECH INDUSTRY PERFORMANCE AND SERNOVA SHARE PRICE
After a record-breaking year in 2021, 2022 was one of the most challenging years for the general healthcare
and biotech industries in capital markets history. Similar to that experienced by peer companies and healthcare
related industries as a whole, Sernova’s share price was negatively impacted with investors reallocating capital
to other market sectors. Despite the ongoing difficult markets, Sernova has made encouraging progress in 2023
as reflected in its share performance being up 17% year-to-date (as of April 3, 2023) compared to an 8%
decline in the Nasdaq XBI biotech index over the same period. The 25% relative advance of Sernova’s share
price compared to this benchmark index recognizes the sound fundamentals and progress as the Company
continues to deliver results from the clinic and evolve preclinical programs and key technologies to create long
term shareholder value.
UPCOMING EVENTS AND PROGRAM MILESTONES
- On April 24, 2023, the Company’s global iPSC strategic partner, Evotec SE (Evotec), will showcase the first
data on the use of its iPSC pancreatic islet-like clusters in Sernova’s Cell Pouch™ in a podium presentation at
the IPITA / HSCI / JDRF Summit. The peer reviewed abstract is entitled: “Manufacturing of Optimized Human
Islet-like Clusters (ILCs) from iPSCs and Functional Testing of an ILC + Cell Pouch Combination In Vivo.”
- On June 24, 2023, the research team of Dr. Piotr Witkowski, primary investigator for the Company’s ongoing
Phase 1/2 clinical trial for type-1 diabetes (T1D), will deliver an oral presentation at the American Diabetes
Association (ADA) 83rd Scientific Sessions, providing an update on interim results from patients enrolled and
treated in the ongoing study. The peer reviewed abstract is entitled: “Islet Allotransplantation into
Prevascularized Sernova Cell Pouch – Early Results from the University of Chicago.”
- During 2023 H2, Sernova anticipates providing the first interim data for the recently initiated second cohort
of patients for its ongoing Phase 1/2 T1D clinical trial using the dose-optimized higher capacity 10-channel Cell
Pouch.
- In 2024, Sernova plans to initiate a Phase 1/2 clinical trial for T1D with Evotec’s iPSC islet-like cluster
technology in Sernova’s Cell Pouch.
- In 2024, Sernova plans on initiating a Phase 1/2 clinical trial for treatment of hypothyroid disease following
complete thyroidectomy and transplanting a patient’s own healthy thyroid tissue into the Sernova Cell Pouch.
SELECT HIGHLIGHTS SINCE SERNOVA’S 2022 AGM
Advances in Sernova’s U.S. Phase 1/2 clinical trial for the treatment of T1D and hypoglycemia unawareness (the
“Phase 1/2 T1D Study”)
- November 2022 – Completion of enrollment for the first cohort of patients.
- November 2022 – Regulatory clearance received to proceed to enroll a second patient cohort (of up to seven
patients) with the dose optimized higher capacity 10-channel Cell Pouch.
- January 2023 – The first two patients in the second cohort were enrolled and implanted with the dose
optimized 10-channel Cell Pouch.
- March 2023 – The second cohort’s third patient was enrolled and implanted with the dose optimized 10-
channel Cell Pouch and initial islet transplantation completed for the first two patients.
May 2022 – Sernova signed a landmark iPSC stem cell technology deal with Evotec
- Sernova and Evotec entered an exclusive global strategic partnership to develop a best-in-class iPSC stem
cell-derived technology to provide a commercially viable supply of islet clusters for patients living with insulin-
dependent diabetes.
- Sernova has option exercise rights for an exclusive global license up to and upon filing of an IND.
- Evotec will contribute its cell manufacturing capabilities through research, development and product
commercialization and may also jointly fund future clinical development. Upon commercialization, royalties will
be payable by Sernova to Evotec with the royalty rate dependent on Evotec’s participation in funding of the
clinical development program.
- Evotec made a strategic investment into Sernova with an initial 6% equity stake.
June 2022 - Sernova common shares up-listed to the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX)
- Transition from the TSX Venture Exchange to the TSX was part of the Company’s capital markets strategy to
pursue more senior exchange listings, at the appropriate time, to access a broader base of investors and
position the Company more favourably for institutional investment.
- This transition also further favourably readies the Company to leverage the unique advantages of the
Multijurisdictional Disclosure System (“MJDS”) available to qualifying Canadian companies for a potential
future senior U.S. exchange listing. A senior U.S. exchange listing would be contingent on further improvement
to the challenging capital markets for healthcare companies.
June 2022 – Dr. Piotr Witkowski presented positive interim Phase 1/2 clinical data in an oral podium
presentation at the American Diabetes Association 82nd Scientific Sessions
- The first three transplanted patients presented positive serum C-peptide values confirming active insulin
production after islet transplantation into the Cell Pouch System.
- All patients who had favorable immunosuppression achieved complete insulin independence with normal
HbA1c measurements of 5.0, 5.2 and 5.2%.
January 2023 – Hypothyroid program proof-of-concept confirmed and advancements announced
- A pre-clinical study confirmed proof-of-concept for the thyroid indication – the third indication for the
Company’s Cell Pouch System™ - demonstrating that thyroid auto-transplantation in the Cell Pouch can
compensate for removal of the thyroid gland (total thyroidectomy), restoring normal thyroid hormone
production.
- Sernova has engaged with regulatory authorities towards initiating clinical development of a prospective
therapy for hypothyroidism.
FINANCIAL AND CASH RESOURCES UPDATE
- Sernova ended Q1 2023 with a strong balance sheet including cash resources of $45.6 million.
- Since the April 2022 AGM:
- Proceeds of $8 million were raised from the full exercise of the remaining outstanding 2019 and 2020
private placement common share purchase warrants.
- The Company completed a private placement with strategic partner Evotec resulting in a total equity
investment of $27 million.
VOTE TODAY USING ONLY MANAGEMENT’S PROXY
Shareholders are encouraged to read Sernova’s 2023 AGM Management Information Circular available on the
Company’s website at www.sernova.com/investor/agm. The best path forward is for shareholders to vote for
management’s slate of directors and the resolutions contained within.
YOUR VOTE HAS NEVER BEEN MORE IMPORTANT. VOTE YOUR SHARES FOR SERNOVA’S NOMINEES
USING ONLY MANAGEMENT’S PROXY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, REGARDLESS OF THE NUMBER OF SHARES
YOU OWN
The deadline for voting your shares is at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time on Tuesday April 25, 2023.
SHAREHOLDER QUESTIONS
Sernova shareholders who have any questions or require assistance with voting may contact Sernova’s proxy
solicitation agent and shareholder communications advisor:
Laurel Hill Advisory Group
Toll Free: 1-877-452-7184 (for shareholders in North America)
International: +1 416-304-0211 (for shareholders outside Canada and the US)
By email: assistance@laurelhill.com
ABOUT SERNOVA CORP. AND THE CELL POUCH SYSTEM PLATFORM FOR CELL THERAPY
Sernova Corp. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that is developing therapeutic cell technologies for
chronic diseases, including insulin-dependent diabetes, thyroid disease, and blood disorders that include
hemophilia A. Sernova is currently focused on developing a ‘functional cure’ for insulin-dependent diabetes
with its lead asset, the Cell Pouch System, a novel implantable and scalable medical device with immune
protected therapeutic cells. On implantation, the Cell Pouch forms a natural vascularized tissue environment in
the body for long-term survival and function of therapeutic cells that release essential factors that are absent
or deficient in the bodies of patients with certain chronic diseases. Sernova’s Cell Pouch System has
demonstrated its potential to be a ‘functional cure’ for people with T1D in an ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical study
at the University of Chicago. Sernova is also advancing a proprietary technology in collaboration with the
University of Miami to shield therapeutic cells from immune system attack with the goal to eliminate the need
for chronic, systemic immunosuppression. In May 2022, Sernova and Evotec entered into a global strategic
partnership to develop an implantable off-the-shelf iPSC (induced pluripotent stem cells) based islet
replacement therapy. This partnership provides Sernova a potentially unlimited supply of insulin-producing
cells to treat millions of patients with insulin-dependent diabetes (type 1 and type 2). Sernova continues to
progress two additional development programs that utilize its Cell Pouch System: a cell therapy for hypothyroid
disease resulting from thyroid gland removal and an ex vivo lentiviral factor VIII gene therapy for hemophilia A.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Corporate
Christopher Barnes
VP, Investor Relations
Sernova Corp.
christopher.barnes@sernova.com
Tel: 519-902-7923
www.sernova.com
Investors
Corey Davis, Ph.D.
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
cdavis@lifesciadvisors.com
Tel: 212-915-2577
Media
Elizabeth Miller, M.D.
LifeSci Communications
emiller@lifescicomms.com
Tel: 646-791-9705
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This release contains statements that, to the extent they are not recitations of historical facts, may constitute
“forward-looking statements” that involve various risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including, without
limitation, statements regarding the prospects, plans, and objectives of the company. Wherever possible, but
not always, words such as "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects",
"potential for" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should"
occur are used to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management’s beliefs with
respect to future events and are based on information currently available to management on the date such
statements were made. Many factors could cause Sernova’s actual results, performances or achievements to
not be as anticipated, estimated or intended or to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the
forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Such factors could include, but are not limited to,
the company’s ability to secure additional financing and licensing arrangements on reasonable terms, or at all;
ability to conduct all required preclinical and clinical studies for the company’s Cell Pouch System and or
related technologies, including the timing and results of those trials; ability to obtain all necessary regulatory
approvals, or on a timely basis; ability to in-license additional complementary technologies; ability to execute
its business strategy and successfully compete in the market; and the inherent risks associated with the
development of biotechnology combination products generally. Many of the factors are beyond our control,
including those caused by, related to, or impacted by the novel coronavirus pandemic. Investors should consult
the company’s quarterly and annual filings available on www.sedar.com for additional information on risks and
uncertainties relating to the forward-looking statements. Sernova expressly disclaims any intention or
obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future
events or otherwise.
Press Release Communiqué de presse - March 22, 2023 22 March, 2023
Sernova Announces Abstract on First Cohort of its Phase 1/2 Study Involving Islet Allotransplantation into Pre-vascularized Cell Pouch™ Selected for Oral Podium Presentation at American Diabetes Association 83rd Scientific Sessions 2023
LONDON, Ontario – March 22, 2023 – Sernova Corp. (TSX:SVA) (OTCQB:SEOVF) (FSE/XETRA:PSH), a clinical-
stage company and leader in cell therapeutics, is pleased to announce that an abstract has been selected for
an oral podium presentation at the upcoming American Diabetes Association (ADA) 83rd Scientific Sessions, to
be held from June 23-26, 2023, in San Diego, CA. It will also be published on the journal Diabetes® website.
Abstract: #240-OR
Title: Islet Allotransplantation into Pre-vascularized Sernova Cell Pouch—Early Results from the University of
Chicago
Abstract Session: Clinical Islet-Cell Transplantation
Date/Time: Saturday June 24, 2023 at 5:15 PM PT
Authors: Mateusz Ogledzinski, Sarah Gondek, William Lin, Kamila Milejczyk, Braden Juengel, Lisa Potter, Piotr
K. Bachul, Lindsay Basto, Laurencia Perea, Lingjia Wang, Martin Tibudan, Rolf Barth, John Fung, Piotr
Witkowski
Sernova will disclose additional information about the presentation at the time of the conference in alignment
with the American Diabetes Association’s abstract embargo policies, which lift at the conclusion of the
presentation on June 24, 2023. All abstracts are preliminary until the time of presentation.
ABOUT SERNOVA CORP. AND THE CELL POUCH SYSTEM PLATFORM FOR CELL THERAPY
Sernova Corp. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that is developing therapeutic cell technologies for
chronic diseases, including insulin-dependent diabetes, thyroid disease, and blood disorders that include
hemophilia A. Sernova is currently focused on developing a ‘functional cure’ for insulin-dependent diabetes
with its lead asset, the Cell Pouch System, a novel implantable and scalable medical device with immune
protected therapeutic cells. On implantation, the Cell Pouch forms a natural vascularized tissue environment in
the body for long-term survival and function of therapeutic cells that release essential factors that are absent
or deficient in the bodies of patients with certain chronic diseases. Sernova’s Cell Pouch System has
demonstrated its potential to be a ‘functional cure’ for people with T1D in an ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical study
at the University of Chicago. Sernova is also advancing a proprietary technology in collaboration with the
University of Miami to shield therapeutic cells from immune system attack with the goal to eliminate the need
for chronic, systemic immunosuppression. In May 2022, Sernova and Evotec entered into a global strategic
partnership to develop an implantable off-the-shelf iPSC (induced pluripotent stem cells) based islet
replacement therapy. This partnership provides Sernova a potentially unlimited supply of insulin-producing
cells to treat millions of patients with insulin-dependent diabetes (type 1 and type 2). Sernova continues to
progress two additional development programs that utilize its Cell Pouch System: a cell therapy for hypothyroid
disease resulting from thyroid gland removal and an ex vivo lentiviral Factor VIII gene therapy for hemophilia A.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Corporate
Christopher Barnes
VP, Investor Relations
Sernova Corp.
christopher.barnes@sernova.com
Tel: 519-902-7923
www.sernova.com
Investors
Corey Davis, Ph.D.
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
cdavis@lifesciadvisors.com
Tel: 212-915-2577
Media
Elizabeth Miller, M.D.
LifeSci Communications
emiller@lifescicomms.com
Tel: 646-791-9705
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This release contains statements that, to the extent they are not recitations of historical facts, may constitute
“forward-looking statements” that involve various risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including, without
limitation, statements regarding the prospects, plans, and objectives of the company. Wherever possible, but
not always, words such as "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects",
"potential for" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should"
occur are used to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management’s beliefs with
respect to future events and are based on information currently available to management on the date such
statements were made. Many factors could cause Sernova’s actual results, performances or achievements to
not be as anticipated, estimated or intended or to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the
forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Such factors could include, but are not limited to,
the company’s ability to secure additional financing and licensing arrangements on reasonable terms, or at all;
ability to conduct all required preclinical and clinical studies for the company’s Cell Pouch System and or
related technologies, including the timing and results of those trials; ability to obtain all necessary regulatory
approvals, or on a timely basis; ability to in-license additional complementary technologies; ability to execute
its business strategy and successfully compete in the market; and the inherent risks associated with the
development of biotechnology combination products generally. Many of the factors are beyond our control,
including those caused by, related to, or impacted by the novel coronavirus pandemic. Investors should consult
the company’s quarterly and annual filings available on www.sedar.com for additional information on risks and
uncertainties relating to the forward-looking statements. Sernova expressly disclaims any intention or
obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future
events or otherwise.
Press Release Communiqué de presse - March 14, 2023 14 March, 2023
Sernova Announces Upcoming Podium Presentation of iPSC and Cell Pouch™ Combination Treatment for Type One Diabetes at the 4th IPITA / HSCI / JDRF Summit
- First pre-clinical data presentation of Sernova’s Cell Pouch with Evotec’s iPSC derived islet-like cluster
technology for type 1 diabetes (T1D)
LONDON, Ontario – March 14, 2023 – Sernova Corp. (TSX:SVA) (OTCQB:SEOVF) (FSE/XETRA:PSH), a clinical-
stage company and leader in cell therapeutics, announced today that an abstract has been selected for an oral
presentation at the 4th International Pancreas and Islet Transplant Association (IPITA) / Harvard Stem Cell
Institute (HSCI) / Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund (JDRF) Summit, to be held from April 24-25, 2023 in
Cambridge, Massachusetts. The presentation will be given by Matthias Austen, PhD, SVP Cell Therapy at
Evotec SE (FSE:EVT; NASDAQ:EVO).
Abstract Title: Manufacturing of optimized human islet-like clusters (ILCs) from iPSCs and functional testing of
an ILC + Cell Pouch™ combination in vivo
Authors: Audrey Holtzinger, Simone Strauch, Thomas Reinbothe, Claudia Wrzos, Andreas Scheel, Cord
Dohrmann, Arash Memarnejadian, Pardis Pakshir, Philip M. Toleikis, Matthias Austen
Date / Time: Monday, April 24, 2023 from 2:45pm-4:25pm ET
Evotec has developed a scalable and comprehensive process for GMP manufacturing of ILCs from a human
GMP-grade induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) line for cell therapy treatment of insulin-dependent diabetes.
In 2022, Evotec entered into a collaboration with Sernova Corp., which has developed the proprietary Cell
Pouch System™. Following implantation, the Cell Pouch develops a vascularized environment to support
engraftment and long-term function of therapeutic cells.
Sernova will disclose additional information about the presentation at the time of the conference.
ABOUT SERNOVA CORP. AND THE CELL POUCH SYSTEM PLATFORM FOR CELL THERAPY
Sernova Corp. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that is developing therapeutic cell technologies for
chronic diseases, including insulin-dependent diabetes, thyroid disease, and blood disorders that include
hemophilia A. Sernova is currently focused on developing a ‘functional cure’ for insulin-dependent diabetes
with its lead asset, the Cell Pouch System, a novel implantable and scalable medical device with immune
protected therapeutic cells. On implantation, the Cell Pouch forms a natural vascularized tissue environment in
the body for long-term survival and function of therapeutic cells that release essential factors that are absent
or deficient in the bodies of patients with certain chronic diseases. Sernova’s Cell Pouch System has
demonstrated its potential to be a ‘functional cure’ for people with T1D in an ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical study
at the University of Chicago. Sernova is also advancing a proprietary technology in collaboration with the
University of Miami to shield therapeutic cells from immune system attack with the goal to eliminate the need
for chronic, systemic immunosuppression. In May 2022, Sernova and Evotec entered into a global strategic
partnership to develop an implantable off-the-shelf iPSC (induced pluripotent stem cells) based islet
replacement therapy. This partnership provides Sernova a potentially unlimited supply of insulin-producing
cells to treat millions of patients with insulin-dependent diabetes (type 1 and type 2). Sernova continues to
progress two additional development programs that utilize its Cell Pouch System: a cell therapy for hypothyroid
disease resulting from thyroid gland removal and an ex vivo lentiviral Factor VIII gene therapy for hemophilia A.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Corporate
Christopher Barnes
VP, Investor Relations
Sernova Corp.
christopher.barnes@sernova.com
Tel: 519-902-7923
www.sernova.com
Investors
Corey Davis, Ph.D.
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
cdavis@lifesciadvisors.com
Tel: 212-915-2577
Media
Elizabeth Miller, M.D.
LifeSci Communications
emiller@lifescicomms.com
Tel: 646-791-9705
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This release contains statements that, to the extent they are not recitations of historical facts, may constitute
“forward-looking statements” that involve various risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including, without
limitation, statements regarding the prospects, plans, and objectives of the company. Wherever possible, but
not always, words such as "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects",
"potential for" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should"
occur are used to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management’s beliefs with
respect to future events and are based on information currently available to management on the date such
statements were made. Many factors could cause Sernova’s actual results, performances or achievements to
not be as anticipated, estimated or intended or to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the
forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Such factors could include, but are not limited to,
the company’s ability to secure additional financing and licensing arrangements on reasonable terms, or at all;
ability to conduct all required preclinical and clinical studies for the company’s Cell Pouch System and or
related technologies, including the timing and results of those trials; ability to obtain all necessary regulatory
approvals, or on a timely basis; ability to in-license additional complementary technologies; ability to execute
its business strategy and successfully compete in the market; and the inherent risks associated with the
development of biotechnology combination products generally. Many of the factors are beyond our control,
including those caused by, related to, or impacted by the novel coronavirus pandemic. Investors should consult
the company’s quarterly and annual filings available on www.sedar.com for additional information on risks and
uncertainties relating to the forward-looking statements. Sernova expressly disclaims any intention or
obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future
events or otherwise.
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