COLUMBIA, Md., March 31, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Osiris Therapeutics, Inc. (Pink Sheets:OSIR), announced today the passing of one of its Board Members, Yves Huwyler.

"It deeply saddens me to announce the untimely loss of a dear friend and most valued Partner and Director Yves Huwyler, who died at the age of 44, after a long struggle with an aggressive illness,” said Peter Friedli, Chairman and Co-founder of Osiris Therapeutics, Inc. “Your smartness, your challenging views, your wise approaches, and your hard work were key in bringing Osiris to where it is and will be missed. Your sons can be so proud of you and everything you have achieved. We at Osiris thank you whole-heartedly for your contribution and wisdom. We will miss you and always remember your kind personality. On behalf of the entire organization, I extend our deepest sympathies, strength, and courage to your family and all those who were close to you in this time of sorrow.”

Mr. Huwyler led the Nominating and Compensation Committees of Osiris’ Board of Directors since 2015, and he was a member of the Board’s Audit Committee. Mr. Huwyler had over 18 years of experience in private equity investing in various sectors and at all stages, and as a member of the Board of Directors he actively contributed to our Company’s success. All members of the Board and Osiris’ management team join Mr. Friedli in expressing their deepest condolences.

About Osiris Therapeutics

Osiris Therapeutics, Inc., based in Columbia, Maryland, is a world leader in researching, developing, and marketing regenerative medicine products that improve health and lives of patients and lower overall healthcare costs. Having developed the world's first approved stem cell drug, the Company continues to advance its research and development in biotechnology by focusing on innovation in regenerative medicine — including bioengineering, stem cell research and viable tissue based products. Osiris has achieved commercial success with products in wound care, orthopedics, and sports medicine, including Grafix^®, Stravix^®, BIO4^®, and Cartiform^®. Osiris, Grafix, Cartiform, and Stravix are registered trademarks of Osiris Therapeutics, Inc., and BIO4 is a registered trademark of Howmedica Osteonics Corp. More information can be found on the Company's website, www.Osiris.com. (OSIR-G)