BERWYN, PA — Specialty pharmacy and healthcare services firm AscellaHealth is spotlighting its role as the HUB partner for Abeona Therapeutics (Nasdaq: ABEO) in the launch and commercialization of ZEVASKYN™, the first FDA-approved autologous cell-based gene therapy for patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB). The partnership marks a milestone in patient support strategy for advanced gene therapies.
Through a collaborative engagement, AscellaHealth developed and implemented the AbeonaAssist™ program—a highly tailored support model designed to meet the unique demands of a new-to-market, highly specialized therapy. The program delivers integrated clinical, operational, and reimbursement solutions that simplify the treatment process for patients, caregivers, and providers.
“Abeona’s groundbreaking cell-based gene therapy demanded a HUB partner who could build tailored infrastructure from the ground up,” said William White, Vice President of Market Access at Abeona Therapeutics. “AscellaHealth’s comprehensive expertise in navigating this complex journey, from patient and provider engagement to optimizing reimbursement for this first-of-its-kind treatment, made them the unequivocal partner of choice.”
ZEVASKYN™ (prademagene zamikeracel) is a gene-modified cellular therapy engineered to address the underlying cause of RDEB—a rare and debilitating genetic condition caused by mutations in the COL7A1 gene, which prevents the production of functional type VII collagen. The absence of this structural protein results in fragile skin prone to blistering, chronic wounds, and life-threatening complications.
The therapy introduces functional COL7A1 genes into a patient’s own skin cells outside the body, using a retroviral vector to restore collagen production. Applied as a cellular sheet via a single surgical procedure, ZEVASKYN has shown significant benefits in wound healing and pain relief.
According to Bill Oldham, Chairman and President of AscellaHealth, the success of the launch reflects more than technical execution—it demonstrates the value of strategic alignment. “Together, we have created synergies that not only benefit both organizations, but most importantly, patient access to treatment and optimized clinical outcomes,” he said. “Abeona epitomizes our description of an ideal partner that is committed to open communications, trust and transparency.”
AscellaHealth’s integrated HUB model is gaining recognition across the life sciences sector for its impact in streamlining access to complex therapies. Its services have proven especially effective in supporting the launch of cell and gene therapies, where treatment journeys require coordination across clinical teams, insurers, and supply chains.
The company reports increased patient satisfaction, adherence, and retention across its programs—critical metrics in ensuring the success of specialty pharmaceuticals for rare and chronic conditions. In the case of ZEVASKYN, the model provides a scalable template for future commercial launches of first-in-class gene therapies.
As advanced therapies continue to redefine the treatment landscape, strategic partnerships like that between AscellaHealth and Abeona Therapeutics offer a roadmap for turning medical breakthroughs into real-world clinical impact.
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