Prima Biomed Enhances CVac Manufacturing and Logistics Capability

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA--(Marketwired - Dec 5, 2014) - Prima BioMed Ltd (NASDAQ: PBMD) (ASX: PRR) ("Prima", the "Company") announces several enhancements to its CVac manufacturing and logistics infrastructure.

Prima will be adopting a new apheresis system for collection of patient mononuclear cell products ("MNC"): the Spectra Optia Apheresis System ("Spectra Optia") manufactured by US-based industry leader Terumo BCT, Inc. ("Terumo BCT"). The new system is simpler, more robust for the collection of mononuclear cells collected from each patient. Being more automated, the Spectra Optia system brings the value of efficiency, purity and consistency to cell collections -- benefitting patients, clinicians and laboratory processes. Given the critical importance to properly train clinicians in product handling, this enhancement will make the initiation process for new clinical centers, especially for the Company's CAN-004B trial, more efficient.

Terumo BCT has an established global technical support network and will provide on-site training and ongoing technical support. The Spectra Optia has received the necessary regulatory approvals for MNC collections in the US, Australia and Europe, so there will be no disruption to Prima's clinical trial program for CVac. Prima has also conducted independent testing to ensure the same quality control of its CVac product through the new system.

In addition, Prima is at an advanced stage of introducing new equipment, which will allow patients' blood to be transported at 2-8 ºC for 48 hours without altering its MNC quality. Previously, the maximum allowable transport time for blood collected from patients was up to 24 hours. This longer duration of protected transport time and temperature supports the ability to centralize manufacturing while maintaining a global reach that can benefit patients and enhance the competitive attractiveness of the CVac product.

Marc Voigt, Chief Executive of Prima, said:
"As a global biotechnology business it is essential that we continually seek to optimize our manufacturing and supply chain capabilities. These initiatives are part of this ongoing effort and will have no significant cost implications for Prima. This will ensure that we have the most efficient and cost effective infrastructure in place to support the potential future global commercialization of CVac."

About Prima BioMed
Prima BioMed is a globally active biotech company developing immunotherapeutic products for the treatment of cancer. Prima is dedicated to leveraging its technology and expertise to bring innovative treatment options to market for patients, and to maximize value for its shareholders. For more information, please visit www.primabiomed.com.au.