EXHIBIT 23.1
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form S-8) pertaining to the Athersys, Inc. Amended and Restated 2007 Long-Term Incentive Plan (Amended and Restated Effective June 16, 2011) of our report dated March 25, 2011, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Athersys, Inc. included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
/s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP
Cleveland, Ohio
June 20, 2011
June 20, 2011