Producing and distributing mesenchymal stem cells to treat eye injuries. The production of stem cells are related to sponsored research and will also be used in clinical trials.

This purchase is exempt from the usual selection processes of the Procurement Code because the procurement expenditure is for performing sponsored research and other sponsored activities under grants and contracts funded by the sponsor or by sources other than State appropriations. (30 ILCS 500 / 1-13(b)(8)) Waisman Biomanufacturing is a specialized cleanroom facility that is specifically designed and constructed to meet requirements for facilities that are involved in the manufacture of cell therapeutics, gene therapeutics, gene therapy vectors, and biologics for phase I/II human clinical trials. The facility's design meets/exceeds FDA guidelines for clinical research purposes. Dr. Djalilian has been awarded a federally-funded grant and this vendor was included in the grant application. The research will improve clinical practice and may bring the University revenue.