The International Stem Cell Corporation, a biotechnology company, continues its developmental research of using stem cells to advance regenerative medicine. The company uses stem cell technology called parthenogenesis that uses unfertilized eggs to address immune system rejection. These eggs have duplicate sets of human leukocyte antigen genes (HLA) that lessen the chance of immune rejection. A single line of these cells can treat millions of people. Furthermore, ISCO can draw hpNSC (human parthenogenetic neural stem cells) from the unfertilized eggs for self-renewing processes related to degeneration.
For example, after continuous successful testing, ISCO believes that their hpNSC can replace dead and dying neurons while also protecting existing ones when transplanted into the brain of someone with Parkinson’s disease. Likewise, ISCO scientists have taken steps to develop human retinal epithelium (RPE) cells that can treat many eye diseases like age-related macular degeneration. Along with that research, the company is among the first in the world to develop a method (CytoCor) for creating corneal tissue and cells to treat blindness.
ISCO recently announced its development of technology that creates functional cartilage from a person’s skin to treat osteoarthritis, a joint disease that erodes cartilage. The company is also pursuing other therapeutic systems that “can potentially be treated with the patient’s own cells,” said its chief scientific officer, Ruslan Semechkin, PhD.
While continuing to develop new regenerative techniques, ISCO also maintains a cosmeceutical line called Lifeline Skin Care Inc. This business manufactures cosmetic skin care products around the world. It uses parthenogenetic stem cells along with vitamins and minerals to create a rejuvenating serum that promotes healthy skin.
For more information about ISCO, visit www.internationalstemcell.com
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