Stem cell technology development trends

What has science yet to discover about the mechanisms of action of MSCs? Is it possible to replace living stem cells without sacrificing the therapeutic effect? Can they be desiccated rather than frozen?

Today, the largest public database of clinical trials includes approximately 500 clinical trials (in various phases) that utilise mesenchymal stem cells from different sources. Mesenchymal stem cells are used in research on diseases such as:

• musculoskeletal system diseases
• haematological diseases
• graft-versus-host disease (GVHD)
• diabetes mellitus
• liver, kidney and lung diseases
• cardiovascular diseases
• neurological diseases

Numerous studies have proven that MSC-based therapies are effective and, first and foremost, safe, which constitutes a strong argument for widespread market introduction of this form of therapy. At the same time, data obtained from human clinical trials contribute valuable information to the development of stem cell-based pharmaceuticals for veterinary use.

All over the world, numerous research teams are now working on the elimination of the need for using living stem cells. The development of a method that allows for sourcing compositions of biologically active substances from living cells is a potentially viable alternative. This research, however, presents numerous challenges due to the complex nature of work with living biological material and associated difficulties. Examples include:

• individual variability of cells,
• sensitivity of MSCs to external stimuli, and
• limited possibility of controlling processes that occur in the cells,
• the mechanisms of action of mesenchymal stem cells not having been definitively established.

At Bioceltix, we believe that challenges are meant to be taken on.

• Given the immunomodulatory effect of MSCs, we plan to extend the use of these cells to autoimmune diseases, which still constitute a major challenge from the perspective of veterinarians.
• At Bioceltix, our R&D team strives to explore the technology of live stem cell lyophilisation. It would allow for maintaining full functionality of cells upon their rehydration. As a result, this could bring about a revolution in transportation and storage of therapeutic stem cells, and consequently – in their availability at veterinary clinics and centres.