Press Release: Commission Vice-President Verheugen welcomes Member States approval of proposal on Advanced Therapies

The Member States of the European Union on 31 May 2007 unanimously endorsed a proposal of the European Commission to regulate new medical products based on genes, cells and tissues. These advanced therapies herald revolutionary treatments of a number of diseases or injuries, such as skin grafts for burn victims, Alzheimer, cancer or muscular dystrophy. Harmonized EU rules are urgently needed to ensure uniform patients’ access to treatments and support the development of this emerging biotechnology industry. After endorsement by the European Parliament at first reading, the Council of Ministers approved the Commission proposal to address all advanced therapies within a single European framework.