Tissue Genesis Inc., a Honolulu-based company focused on regenerative medicine, said it has received a $3.62 million defense department contract.

Under the contract, Tissue Genesis will continue its research on treatment options for those suffering from Peripheral Vascular Disease. PVD is a circulation disorder affecting blood vessels outside of the heart, including vessels supplying the hands, feet and legs, which can cause severe pain.

Tissue Genesis said it will explore transplanting adipose-derived stromal cells from a patient's own fat directly into tissue damaged by a low blood supply. The process is expected to increase circulation and relieve symptoms of PVD, according to a news release from Tissue Genesis. An improvement in circulation could prevent progression of the disease, which left untreated ultimately results in 130,000 amputations annually, the company said.