Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Monday, November 24, 2008
International Stem Cell Corporation Partners with Absorption Systems to Commercialize Human Stem Cell-Derived Corneal Tissue for Drug Testing
International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB:ISCO (www.internationalstemcell.com), the first company to perfect a method of creating human "parthenogenetic" stem cells from unfertilized eggs, has formed a partnership with Absorption Systems to utilize ISCO's parthenogenetic stem cell-derived human corneal tissue to measure drug disposition, drug safety and drug-drug interactions. The collaboration between the companies is focused on using Absorption Systems' know how in creating in vitro assay systems to develop a superior method of testing drugs that will also reduce the use of laboratory animals currently necessary for such tests.
In the past, researchers have grown corneal cells in the laboratory, but ISCO is believed to be the only company to grow a self-assembling corneal construct suitable for toxicity testing in the laboratory and possibly suitable for corneal transplants. ISCO's corneal constructs include cell layers and structures normally found in a human cornea, as confirmed by an independent third-party laboratory. ISCO's proprietary lines of parthenogenetic stem cells remove the need for fertilized embryos and in a therapeutic setting, minimize the threat of immune rejection. This breakthrough was published in the peer-reviewed journal Cloning & Stem Cells (Volume 9, Number 3; September 2007:432-449 and, Volume 10, Number 1; March 2008:11-24).
"The combination of ISCO's skill in culturing human parthenogenetic stem cells and Absorption Systems' proficiency in performing tissue-based assays may provide a powerful and unique drug testing model for the pharmaceutical industry and the field of ophthalmology," commented Jeffrey Janus, president of ISCO. "In addition, this work complements ISCO's effort to use its parthenogenetic stem cells to create cell transplant therapies for diseases of the eye. We plan to further develop our corneal tissue technology with a goal of routinely growing living human corneas for ultimate use in human corneal transplants."
"ISCO's corneal construct, combined with Absorption Systems' expertise in assessing drug disposition, may provide pharmaceutical and ophthalmology researchers with new insight, without the need for animal models," said Patrick M. Dentinger, president and CEO of Absorption Systems. "Absorption Systems' services yield the type of definitive data expected by the FDA, so we believe that our combined products will be of great interest to researchers studying diseases of the eye."
ABOUT INTERNATIONAL STEM CELL CORPORATION (ISCO.OB):
International Stem Cell Corporation is a California biotechnology company focused on developing therapeutic and research products. ISCO's technology, Parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cell lines from unfertilized human eggs. ISCO scientists have created the first Parthenogenetic homozygous stem cell line (phSC-Hhom-4) that can be a source of therapeutic cells that will minimize immune rejection after transplantation into hundreds of millions of individuals of differing sexes, ages and racial groups. These advancements offer the potential to create the first true "Stem Cell Bank" and address ethical issues by eliminating the need to use or destroy fertilized embryos. ISCO also produces and markets specialized cells and growth media worldwide for therapeutic research through its subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology. For more information, visit the ISCO website at: www.internationalstemcell.com.
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ABOUT ABSORPTION SYSTEMS:
Founded in 1996 by Patrick Dentinger and Ismael J. Hidalgo, Ph.D., Absorption Systems, LP focuses on performing assays that can predict the Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion (ADME) of small molecules using a variety of in vitro, in situ, and in vivo biological models. Absorption Systems supports these assays with state-of–the-art bioanalytical capabilities and preclinical formulation services. For more information, visit: www.absorption.com
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:
Statements pertaining to future financial and/or operating results, future growth in research, technology, clinical development and potential opportunities for the company and its subsidiary, along with other statements about the future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans, or prospects expressed by management constitute forward-looking statements. Any statements that are not historical fact (including, but not limited to statements that contain words such as "will," "believes," "plans," "anticipates," "expects," "estimates") should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, risks inherent in the development and/or commercialization of potential products, uncertainty in the results of clinical trials or regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, and maintenance of intellectual property rights. Actual results may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements and as such should be evaluated together with the many uncertainties that affect the company's business, particularly those mentioned in the cautionary statements found in the company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. The company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
International Stem Cell Corporation Announces a Manufacturing and Supply Agreement with Millipore Corporation
International Stem Cell (OTCBB:ISCO) announced today it has entered into a worldwide distribution agreement with Millipore Corporation (NYSE: MIL) to manufacture living cells and cell culture products to be sold through Millipore’s distribution network.
“To work with a company such as Millipore that has sales of over $1.5 billion and is known throughout the world is a wonderful opportunity for ISCO. This partnership will lead to a significant expansion in ISCO’s revenue generation through the manufacture of high quality cells and cell culture products. Millipore is a leader in the life science industry, with a strong sales force and distribution network serving biotechnology firms, pharmaceutical companies and laboratories around the world. The ISCO-Millipore team will provide valuable research tools for cell biologists across the world,” according to Jeffrey Janus, ISCO’s president.
International Stem Cell, an emerging stem-cell therapy company, is the first company to perfect a method of creating human stem cells from unfertilized eggs. These cells, called “parthenogenetic” stem cells promise to alleviate two critical problems inherent in cell transplantation today, immune rejection and the ethical issues associated with the use of fertilized human embryos. ISCO, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Lifeline Cell Technology (Walkersville, MD) develops and manufactures cell culture products for research use. Such manufacturing generates revenue and therapeutic production capacity for ISCO.
“We are very excited about driving our partnership forward with ISCO,” said Don O’Neil, Millipore’s Director of Marketing for Stem Cells. “With this relationship, Millipore gains access to a world class team of scientists responsible for developing many of the 'first-in-class' specialty media products on the market. The ISCO offering perfectly compliments our strategy to become the industry leading specialty and stem cell culture complete solutions provider.”
ABOUT MILLIPORE
Millipore is a life science leader providing cutting-edge technologies, tools, and services for bioscience research and biopharmaceutical manufacturing. As a strategic partner, we collaborate with customers to confront the world's challenging human health issues. From research to development to production, our scientific expertise and innovative solutions help customers tackle their most complex problems and achieve their goals. Millipore Corporation is an S&P 500 company with more than 6,000 employees in 47 countries worldwide. Www.millipore.com
ABOUT INTERNATIONAL STEM CELL CORPORATION:
International Stem Cell is a biotechnology company currently focused on developing therapeutic and research products. In the area of therapeutic product development, ISCO's objective is to create an unlimited source of human cells for use in the treatment of several diseases, including diabetes, liver disease and retinal and corneal disease through cell transplant therapy. In furtherance of this objective, ISCO has developed pluripotent human stem cells from unfertilized human eggs, and techniques to cause those stem cells to be "differentiated" into the specific cell types required for transplant. It has developed manufacturing protocols to produce the cells minimizing contamination with animal by-products, a characteristic likely to be important in meeting U.S. Food and Drug Administration requirements. ISCO also provides the specialized cells and growth media needed for therapeutic cell transplantation research to academic and commercial researchers in related fields. For more information, visit the ISCO website at: www.internationalstemcell.com.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
International Stem Cell Corporation Arranges $ 3 Million Equity Financing
OCEANSIDE, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB: ISCO - News) has entered into a subscription agreement with an accredited investor to sell three million dollars ($3,000,000) of Series C Preferred Stock at a price of $1.00 per share. The funding is to occur in three tranches. The first, for $700,000, closed August 20, 2008. The second closing for $1,300,000 is scheduled for September 23, 2008 and the final closing of $1,000,000 is scheduled for December 15, 2008, subject to determination by the investor that no material adverse event has occurred. The investor will be entitled to one of the Company’s seven board seats. Each $1.00 share of Series C Preferred will be convertible into shares of common stock at $0.25 per share, subject to antidilution provisions if the company subsequently issues shares at a lower price. The Series C Preferred has priority over the Common Stock on any sale or liquidation of the Company and a preference before any dividend can be paid on Common Stock in any year. Each share of Series C Preferred has the same voting rights as the number of shares of Common Stock into which it is convertible.
The funds will support work towards pre-clinical trials using parthenogenetic stem cells for retinal and liver disease and diabetes; advance the construction of therapeutic cell manufacturing facilities and support ongoing operations.
“These funds will go a long way toward insuring that ISCO continues to move forward without interruption in its quest to provide the cells needed to make regenerative medicine therapies available to millions of people throughout the world,” said ISCO’s CEO, Kenneth Aldrich.
The securities were offered and sold to the investor in a private placement transaction made in reliance upon exemptions from registration pursuant to Section 4(2) under the Securities Act of 1933 and Rule 506 promulgated thereunder. The Investor is an accredited investor as defined in Rule 501 of Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933.
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About International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO.OB):
International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) is a California biotechnology company focused on developing therapeutic and research products. ISCO’s technology, Parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cell lines from unfertilized human eggs. ISCO scientists also have created the first Parthenogenetic homozygous stem cell line (phSC-Hhom-4) that can be a source of therapeutic cells that will not be immune rejected after transplantation into millions of individuals of differing sexes, ages and racial groups. These advancements offer the potential to create the first true “Stem Cell Bank” and address ethical issues by eliminating the need to use or destroy fertilized embryos. ISCO also produces and markets specialized cells and growth media worldwide for therapeutic research through its subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology. For more information, visit the ISCO website at: www.internationalstemcell.com.
To subscribe to receive ongoing corporate communications please click on the following link: http://www.b2i.us/irpass.asp?BzID=1468&to=ea&s=0.
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements pertaining to future financial and/or operating results, future growth in research, technology, clinical development and potential opportunities for the company and its subsidiary, along with other statements about the future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans, or prospects expressed by management constitute forward-looking statements. Any statements that are not historical fact (including, but not limited to statements that contain words such as “will,” “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “estimates,”) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, risks inherent in the development and/or commercialization of potential products, uncertainty in the results of clinical trials or regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, and maintenance of intellectual property rights. Actual results may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements and as such should be evaluated together with the many uncertainties that affect the company’s business, particularly those mentioned in the cautionary statements found in the company’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings. The company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
Key Words: Stem Cells, Biotechnology, Parthenogenesis, Liver disease
Contact:
International Stem Cell Corporation
Kenneth C. Aldrich, CEO, 760-940-6383
kaldrich@intlstemcell.com
or
Jeffrey Janus, President, 760-940-6383
jjanus@intlstemcell.com
or
William Adams, Chief Financial Officer, 760-940-6383
wadams@intlstemcell.com
Thursday, July 31, 2008
San Diego Business Journal - "Collaborations: Academia, For-Profits Team Up to Advance Stem Cell Research"
Jeffrey Janus, president of International Stem Cell Corp., and Nikolay Turovets, director of research and therapeutic development, are pursuing new approaches to stem cell research.
Click here to read the full article by Heather Chambers
Thursday, July 17, 2008
International Stem Cell Corporation and Novocell, Inc. Collaborate to Test Human Parthenogenetic Stem Cells for Production of Pancreatic Islet Cells
Oceanside, Calif. — [July 17, 2008]— International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB: ISCO) announced today a collaboration with Novocell Inc. (La Jolla, CA) to use ISCO’s human parthenogenetic stem cell lines for differentiation to Human pancreatic islet cells. The studies will be directed by Nikolay Turovets, PhD, Director, Research and Therapeutic Development at ISCO in collaboration with Novocell scientists.
ISCO’s unique stem cells offer a solution for two of the most difficult problems facing stem cell therapy. They are the first step in preventing the rejection of implanted cells by the patient’s own immune system and they provide an alternative to embryonic stem cells that does not involve destroying human embryos.
Jeffrey Janus, ISCO’s President, said, “Studies show that ISCO’s cells (called human parthenogenetic stem cells) share with conventional human embryonic stem cells the ability to differentiate into all tissue types, however they have the singular significant advantage of being immune matched at the MHC locus to hundreds of millions of people. As with immune-matched whole organs, differentiated cells obtained using these lines may provide improved transplant acceptance to large segments of the population as opposed to a few individuals. In addition, ISCO’s stem cells are created from unfertilized human eggs and do not involve the destruction of fertilized embryos.”
Novocell has developed technology to direct embryonic stem cells to become pancreatic islet cells that have been shown to be effective in treating diabetes in animals. The combined technologies of the two companies may therefore result in therapeutic cells with improved immune properties for eventual treatment of larger segments of the diabetic population.
A description of ISCO’s human parthenogenetic stem cells and their potential to improve transplantation was reported in ISCO’s peer review paper published December 19, 2007 in the online edition of Cloning and Stem Cells Journal: http://www.liebertonline.com/doi/pdfplus/10.1089/clo.2007.0063.
“Our business model,” added Mr.
About Novocell:
Novocell, Inc. is a stem cell engineering company, with research operations in
ABOUT INTERNATIONAL STEM CELL CORPORATION (ISCO.OB):
International Stem Cell Corporation is a
To subscribe to receive ongoing corporate communications please click on the following link:
http://www.b2i.us/irpass.asp?BzID=1468&to=ea&s=0.
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements pertaining to future financial and/or operating results, future growth in research, technology, clinical development and potential opportunities for the company and its subsidiary, along with other statements about the future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans, or prospects expressed by management constitute forward-looking statements. Any statements that are not historical fact (including, but not limited to statements that contain words such as “will,” “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “estimates,”) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, risks inherent in the development and/or commercialization of potential products, uncertainty in the results of clinical trials or regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, and maintenance of intellectual property rights. Actual results may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements and as such should be evaluated together with the many uncertainties that affect the company's business, particularly those mentioned in the cautionary statements found in the company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. The company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
Key Words: Stem Cells, Biotechnology, Parthenogenesis, Diabetes
Contacts:
International Stem Cell Corporation
Jeffrey Janus, President
760-940-6383
Or
William Adams, Chief Financial Officer
760-940-6383
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
International Stem Cell Corporation Announces Collaboration with Michigan State University to Study Parthenogenetic Stem Cells
Oceanside, California, July 8, 2008 -- International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB: ISCO), announced today a new collaboration with leading stem cell researcher Jose Cibelli at Michigan State University as part of ISCO’s ongoing strategy to work with scientific leaders across the world to expand the scientific data relating to parthenogenetic stem cells.
Professor Cibelli will study gene expression in several human parthenogenetic stem cell lines and compare the results with fertilized embryonic stem cells. According to Professor Cibelli, “We have observed in mouse and monkey that imprinting in parthenogenetic cells changes as the cells are cultured. This in vitro phenomenon can be advantageous for parthenogenetic cells.”
ISCO is the first company in the world to perfect a process for creating human stem cells from unfertilized eggs. These cells are called “parthenogenetic” stem cells and they alleviate two critical problems inherent to the use of embryonic stem cells for cell transplantation, immune rejection and ethical issues associated with the use of fertilized human embryos. Such cells can be “matched” to the immune systems of millions of persons. ISCO’s goal is to create a “cell bank” of clinical grade parthenogenetic cells available for immediate use without having to isolate cells from the patient’s own body or depend on cells isolated from other living individuals.
“Collaborations with leading researchers such as Dr. Cibelli and Michigan State University generate important knowledge about these unique cells, helping in ISCO’s goal of creating a true stem cell bank that could offer on-demand delivery of clinical grade cells matched to a patient’s own immune system”, said
ISCO’s discovery of a way to make parthenogenetic cells that match the immune system of millions of persons was first announced in December, 2007 in a peer reviewed paper authored by ISCO’s CSO, Dr.
ABOUT INTERNATIONAL STEM CELL CORPORATION (ISCO.OB):
International Stem Cell Corporation is a
To subscribe to receive ongoing corporate communications please click on the following link:
http://www.b2i.us/irpass.asp?BzID=1468&to=ea&s=0
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements pertaining to future financial and/or operating results, future growth in research, technology, clinical development and potential opportunities for the company and its subsidiary, along with other statements about the future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans, or prospects expressed by management constitute forward-looking statements. Any statements that are not historical fact (including, but not limited to statements that contain words such as “will,” “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “estimates,”) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, risks inherent in the development and/or commercialization of potential products, uncertainty in the results of clinical trials or regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, and maintenance of intellectual property rights. Actual results may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements and as such should be evaluated together with the many uncertainties that affect the company's business, particularly those mentioned in the cautionary statements found in the company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. The company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
Contacts:
International Stem Cell Corporation
Jeffrey Janus, President
760-940-6383
or
William Adams, Chief Financial Officer
760-940-6383
Friday, June 27, 2008
International Stem Cell Corporation Cuts a Deal with BioTime, Inc., and Embryome Sciences, Inc., to Provide Unique Human Stem Cell Lines for Research
International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB:ISCO), through its wholly owned subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology (Lifeline), has signed a manufacturing and distribution agreement with BioTime, Inc., (OTCBB:BTIM) (Alameda, CA) and BioTime’s wholly owned subsidiary Embryome Sciences, Inc., to jointly produce and distribute hundreds of new standardized human and animal stem cell lines, along with corresponding data and reagents. The mutual goal is to provide the “picks and shovels” for scientists mining the stem cell field for therapeutics in the emerging fields of regenerative medicine and pharmaceutical drug discovery.
These unique stem cell lines (called “progenitor” cell lines) possess the potential to expand and become specific types of tissues and cells such as heart, liver, skeletal muscle, bone, retinal, nerve, pancreas and others – all necessary to study various human diseases where regenerative medicine shows great promise.
“There is a large opportunity in providing high-quality progenitor cell lines and other basic research tools for use in stem cell research and drug discovery, especially since $3 billion in research funds for California’s Proposition 71 are now becoming available. International Stem Cell’s and BioTime’s combined strengths and technologies, and our ability to move quickly put us in an excellent position in this emerging market,” said Jeffrey Janus, President of International Stem Cell and CEO of Lifeline. “We are fortunate to work with Dr. Michael West, CEO of BioTime and Embryome Sciences. Dr. West has established the field of 'embryomics' which is the science of characterizing all of the complex cell types that can be derived from human embryonic stem (hES) cells. Dr. West’s expertise, along with International Stem Cell’s experience in manufacturing standardized human cells and reagents is a spectacular opportunity to become a leading provider of the next generation of tools for stem cell research.”
According to Dr. West, “While many have focused on the therapeutic opportunities of hES cells, and the generous $3 billion of funding provided by the State of California to fund this research, we believe that the greatest rate of return on investment may be in commercializing research products. We intend to win the race to profitability in this important field of medicine.”
Under the collaborative production and manufacturing agreement, the parties intend to manufacture EspyTM cell lines (derivatives of hES cells that send beacons of light in response to the activation of particular genes), as well as a host of supplies scientists will utilize in the field of stem cell research. The progenitor cell lines will be produced and distributed in joint efforts utilizing Embryome Sciences’ proprietary “Embryomics ” technology, International Stem Cell’s proprietary parthenogenetic stem cell lines derived from unfertilized human eggs and technology and approved hES cell lines licensed from the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF). Data on these lines will be presented on Embryome Sciences’ future Embryome.com online database. International Stem Cell will contribute its manufacturing and quality control expertise backed by a staff with over 150 years of experience in the field.
Embryome Sciences also plans to develop and market other products for use by stem cell researchers including growth and differentiation factors that can permit researches to manufacture specific cell types from embryonic stem cells, and purification tools useful to researchers in quality control of products for regenerative medicine. In addition to its own products, Embryome Sciences plans to market with Lifeline proprietary cell growth media optimized for the growth of human embryonic progenitor cells, as a product line called EspanTM.
About BioTime, Inc. (BTIM.OB):
BioTime, headquartered in Alameda, California, develops blood plasma volume expanders, blood replacement solutions for hypothermic (low temperature) surgery, organ preservation solutions, and technology for use in surgery, emergency trauma treatment and other applications. BioTime's lead product Hextend is manufactured and distributed in the U.S. by Hospira, Inc. and in South Korea by CJ Corp. under exclusive licensing agreements. BioTime has recently entered the field of regenerative medicine through its wholly owned subsidiary Embryome Sciences, Inc. where it plans to develop new medical and research products using embryonic stem cell technology. Additional information about BioTime can be found on the web at www.biotimeinc.com. Hextend , PentaLyte , HetaCool , EmbryomicsTM, EspyTM, and EspanTM are trademarks of BioTime, Inc.
About International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO.OB):
International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) is a California biotechnology company focused on developing therapeutic and research products. ISCO’s technology, Parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cell lines from unfertilized human eggs. ISCO scientists also have created the first Parthenogenetic homozygous stem cell line (phSC-Hhom-4) that can be a source of therapeutic cells that will not be immune rejected after transplantation into millions of individuals of differing sexes, ages and racial groups. These advancements offer the potential to create the first true “Stem Cell Bank” and address ethical issues by eliminating the need to use or destroy fertilized embryos. ISCO also produces and markets specialized cells and growth media worldwide for therapeutic research through its subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology. For more information, visit the ISCO website at: www.internationalstemcell.com.
Friday, May 9, 2008
International Stem Cell Corporation Obtains Exclusive Rights in the US and Canada to Distribute Approved Human Skin Model for Toxicity Testing
International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB: ISCO) announced today that it has entered into an exclusive agreement with CellSystems Biotechnologie to distribute laboratory-cultured models of human skin useful for testing the hazardous properties of consumer products and for dermatological and pharmaceutical research. Such testing is likely to be soon required for certain types of consumer products sold into the European Union.
According to International Stem Cell’s (ISCO) President Jeffrey Janus, “This agreement is another positive step in ISCO’s strategic plan to become the primary source of high quality human cells for the therapeutic and research markets by leveraging its manufacturing and distribution resources.”
ISCO is the first company to develop a unique type of human stem cell line that promises to eliminate the immune rejection problems that plague cell-transplantation therapies and opens the potential to create the first true “Stem Cell Bank.” ISCO’s technology, called parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cell lines from unfertilized human eggs – a fact that alleviates many ethical issues.
ISCO’s human cell and cell culture research products are manufactured and distributed under the “Lifeline” brand by wholly-owned subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology, LLC, based in Walkersville, Maryland (www.lifelinecelltech.com).
The laboratory-cultured models of human skin, called EST-1000 and AST-2000 were developed by CellSystems and contain cells manufactured by Lifeline. These three-dimensional skin cell models are used as alternative methods to animal testing in the field of Skin Corrosion, Skin Irritation, Skin Sensitization, Genotoxicity and Phototoxicity.
“We have worked with the Lifeline staff and know their abilities to provide excellent customer service and their ability to consistently produce high quality products; a critical factor for researchers that depend on human cells for the success of their research,” said Horst W. Fuchs, President of CellSystems Biotechnologie. “This agreement between our companies opens a distribution channel for CellSystems’ skin model products to scientific researchers throughout the United States and Canada.”
“While the sale of these Lifeline stem cell and research products provides ISCO immediate cash flow, it also helps embed ISCO’s products into successful therapeutic and quality control procedures worldwide, providing a revenue stream of shared royalties beyond traditional sales,” added Janus.
ABOUT CELLSYSTEMS:
CellSystems Biotechnologie Vertrieb GmbH, founded in Germany in 1992 as a sales and marketing organization, is one of the main providers of selected high quality and innovative cell culture products to the life sciences community. For more than fifteen years, CellSystems has provided the Life Science community with the most sophisticated cell biology products available. Their core competency in Human Primary Cells and adult Stem Cells has resulted in the development of three dimensional skin cell models which are used as alternative methods to animal testing in the field of Skin Corrosion, Skin Irritation, Skin Sensitization, Genotoxicity and Phototoxicity. CellSystems also provides cell models for Angionenesis, Blood-Brain-Barrier and Inhalation Toxicology. Visit the CellSystem’s web site at: www.cellsystems.biz.
ABOUT INTERNATIONAL STEM CELL CORPORATION (ISCO.OB):
International Stem Cell Corporation is a California biotechnology company focused on developing therapeutic and research products. ISCO’s technology, Parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cell lines from unfertilized human eggs. ISCO scientists have created the first Parthenogenetic homozygous stem cell line (phSC-Hhom-4) that can be a source of therapeutic cells that will not be immune rejected after transplantation into millions of individuals of differing sexes, ages and racial groups. These advancements offer the potential to create the first true “Stem Cell Bank” and address ethical issues by eliminating the need to use or destroy fertilized embryos. ISCO also produces and markets specialized cells and growth media worldwide for therapeutic research through its subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology. For more information, visit the ISCO website at: www.internationalstemcell.com.
To subscribe to receive ongoing corporate communications please click on the following link: http://www.b2i.us/irpass.asp?BzID=1468&to=ea&s=0
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements pertaining to future financial and/or operating results, future growth in research, technology, clinical development and potential opportunities for the company and its subsidiary, along with other statements about the future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans, or prospects expressed by management constitute forward-looking statements. Any statements that are not historical fact (including, but not limited to statements that contain words such as “will,” “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “estimates”) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, risks inherent in the development and/or commercialization of potential products, uncertainty in the results of clinical trials or regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, and maintenance of intellectual property rights. Actual results may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements and as such should be evaluated together with the many uncertainties that affect the company's business, particularly those mentioned in the cautionary statements found in the company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. The company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
International Stem Cell Corporation Announces Collaboration with the University of Cambridge to Study Parthenogenetic Stem Cells
OCEANSIDE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB:ISCO), announced today a new collaboration with the University of Cambridge (UK) as part of ISCO’s ongoing strategy to work with scientific leaders across the world to expand the scientific data relating to parthenogenetic stem cells.
According to Roger A. Pedersen, PhD, Professor of Regenerative Medicine at Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, “We look forward to conducting molecular and genetic assessment of imprinted gene expression and DNA methylation on these unique cells.”
ISCO is the first company in the world to perfect a process for creating human stem cells from unfertilized eggs. These cells are called “parthenogenetic” stem cells and they alleviate two critical problems inherent to the use of embryonic stem cells for cell transplantation, immune rejection and ethical issues associated with the use of fertilized human embryos. Such cells can be “matched” to the immune systems of millions of persons. ISCO’s goal is to create a “cell bank” of clinical grade parthenogenetic cells available for immediate use without having to isolate cells from the patient’s own body or depend on cells isolated from other living individuals.
“Collaborations with leading researchers such as Dr. Pedersen at the University of Cambridge brings us closer to ISCO’s goal of creating a true stem cell bank that could offer on-demand delivery of stem cells matched to a patient’s own immune system,” said Jeffrey Janus, president of International Stem Cell Corporation. “Our intent is to provide these HLA-homozygous cell lines to researchers across the world to advance the field of regenerative medicine, as well as to commercialize our cells for cell transplant therapies.”
ISCO’s discovery of a way to make parthenogenetic cells that match the immune system of millions of persons was first announced in December, 2007 in a peer reviewed paper authored by ISCO’s Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Elena Revazova, MD, PhD, entitled “HLA Homozygous Stem Cell Lines Derived from Human Parthenogenetic Blastocysts,” published in the online edition of Cloning and Stem Cells Journal: http://www.liebertonline.com/doi/pdfplus/10.1089/clo.2007.0063. One such line, identified as hpSC-Hhom-4, was found to match the most common immune type found across the United States, opening the door to potential therapeutic application for tens of millions of people of different races, sexes and ages.
About University of Cambridge:
As the University of Cambridge approaches its eight-hundredth anniversary in 2009, it is looking to the future. Its mission is to contribute to society through the pursuit of education, learning and research at the highest international levels of excellence. It admits the very best and brightest students, regardless of background, and offers one of the UK’s most generous bursary schemes.
The University of Cambridge’s reputation for excellence is known internationally and reflects the scholastic achievements of its academics and students, as well as the world-class original research carried out by its staff. Some of the most significant scientific breakthroughs occurred at the University, including the splitting of the atom, invention of the jet engine and the discoveries of stem cells, plate tectonics, pulsars and the structure of DNA. From Isaac Newton to Stephen Hawking, the University has nurtured some of history’s greatest minds and has produced more Nobel Prize winners than any other UK institution with over 80 laureates.
About International Stem Cell Corporation:
International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) is a California biotechnology company focused on developing therapeutic and research products. ISCO’s technology, Parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cell lines from unfertilized human eggs. ISCO scientists also have created the first Parthenogenetic homozygous stem cell line (phSC-Hhom-4) that can be a source of therapeutic cells that will not be immune rejected after transplantation into millions of individuals of differing sexes, ages and racial groups. These advancements offer the potential to create the first true “Stem Cell Bank” and address ethical issues by eliminating the need to use or destroy fertilized embryos. ISCO also produces and markets specialized cells and growth media worldwide for therapeutic research through its subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology. For more information, visit the ISCO website at: www.internationalstemcell.com.
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Forward-Looking Statements
Statements pertaining to future financial and/or operating results, future growth in research, technology, clinical development and potential opportunities for the company and its subsidiary, along with other statements about the future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans, or prospects expressed by management constitute forward-looking statements. Any statements that are not historical fact (including, but not limited to statements that contain words such as “will,” “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “estimates,”) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, risks inherent in the development and/or commercialization of potential products, uncertainty in the results of clinical trials or regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, and maintenance of intellectual property rights. Actual results may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements and as such should be evaluated together with the many uncertainties that affect the company's business, particularly those mentioned in the cautionary statements found in the company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. The company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
International Stem Cell's Presentation at the 20th Annual Roth Capital Partners OC Growth Stock Conference
Please visit Wall Street Webcasting to view the original presentation;
http://www.wsw.com/webcast/roth16/isco/index.html
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Summing Up Stem Cells by Kenneth Aldrich
As I have been traveling around the U.S. talking to editors and financial analysts about our company, International Stem Cell Corporation (“ISCO.OB), I am constantly struck by how much confusion there is about what stem cells are, what the difference is between “adult” and “embryonic” stem cells, and how they can be used in developing ways to treat dreadful diseases. Let me offer some thoughts that may be helpful.
First of all, let me refer you to what I think is the finest explanation of stem clls for the non-scientist I have ever read. It is contained in an article by Dr. Douglas Melton of
However, there is one thing not covered by the article because it was not widely known at the time. Dr. Melton speaks of the differences between adult stem cells, which are limited in their capacity to become other types of cells, and embryonic stem cells, which can become any cell in the body. Embryonic stem cells are also at the heart of all the current debate about the ethics of stem cell research because they are obtained from fertilized human eggs.
What was not widely known at the time of Dr. Melton’s article is that there is a way of creating stem cells that have the same capacity to be changed into any cell in the body that might be needed for therapy or research, but do not use fertilized eggs. These are stem cells developed by my company, International Stem Cell Corporation, created by a process called Parthenogenesis. The cells are called Parthenotes. At the risk of sounding like a commercial, let me explain why we think these cells are so important.
The first reason is obvious. By avoiding the need to use fertilized eggs, we believe we can put to rest the fears of those who believe that destroying a fertilized embryo is destroying a human life. For reasons that can get quite technical, it is generally agreed that in humans a Parthenote cannot be implanted back into the donor’s womb and grow to be a human being. It is a cluster of cells that can still produce any cell in the body, but lacks a critical element necessary to allow it to attach to the uterus and become a baby.
The second reason is even more important. Any implanting of a cell to treat a disease is like transplanting a miniature organ. If you don’t have a match with the patient’s immune system, the body will reject the cell. It is one of the big problems not yet solved in cell transplant therapy and millions of dollars have been spent trying to find ways to trick the body into not attacking the implanted cell.
We think we have a better way by far. Because Parthenotes contain only the dna of the mother from whose egg they were derived, and not that derived from a father’s sperm, it is possible to create cells from a single stem cell line that can match the immune profile of hundreds of millions of people. That means that instead of having to search through hundreds of thousands of cell lines trying to find one that matches, a very small number of lines might suffice for most of the world’s population.
I’ll have more to say on the subject in a later posting, but this is probably enough for today.
CEO
International Stem Cell Corporation
(ISCO.OB)
Thursday, January 24, 2008
The Loss of Jeff Krstich Spawns Several Beautiful Tributes
We were all deeply saddened by the sudden loss of ISCO's CEO Jeff Krstich. Listed below is a sampling of recently published articles eulogizing a great man and father.
North County Times - “International Stem Cell CEO Krstich Dies” By: BRADLEY J. FIKES - Staff Writer
OCEANSIDE ---- Jeff Krstich, chief executive of International Stem Cell Corp., died Jan. 20, the company announced Tuesday.
Krstich, 60, died of "an apparent heart attack", the company said in a press release. Kenneth C. Aldrich, chairman, has replaced Krstich as chief executive and will retain the chairman title.
The Oceanside-based company (ticker ISCO, which trades over the counter) is developing therapies from stem cells derived from unfertilized, or parthogenic, human egg cells.
"We are all shocked that Jeff would be taken at such a young age, but we are determined to use this tragic event as motivation to vigorously pursue stem-cell based therapeutic remedies that would help to fulfill Mr. Krstich's dream," Aldrich stated.
To read the article in full, please visit the Source Link Below
Source: http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2008/01/22/business/news/6_31_761_22_08.txt
Signs on San Diego - “CEO inspired others at his company, in personal life” By Terri Somers UNION-TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER
January 23, 2008
Whether he was meeting with his employees at International Stem Cells Inc. or coaching diminutive 5-year-olds in flag football, Jeff Krstich made people feel good about themselves and their contribution to the team effort, people who knew him say.
Or, as one International Stem Cell consultant said, “He always made me feel like I was the brightest penny in the room.”
Krstich, a former Navy test pilot who had been CEO at the Oceanside-based company since 2006, died Sunday of a heart attack. He was 60.
Friends, relatives and colleagues expressed shock yesterday that the robust and fit former captain of the U.S. Naval Academy football team, who had played lacrosse Saturday, is now gone.
“He was one of, if not the best, person I ever worked with in my entire career because he had vision and knew where we were going and made you so happy to be there,” said Jeffrey Janus, president of International Stem Cells.
To read the article in full, please visit the Source Link BelowSource: http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/business/biotech/20080123-9999-1b23iscc.htmll
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
San Diego North Coast Times Publishes ISCO Eye Surgery Trial Article
International Stem Cell Corp. Joins Eye Surgery Trial
OCEANSIDE -- Shares of International Stem Cell Corp. rose nearly 19 percent Monday after the company said it will supply corneal cells for human trials in an effort to improve vision correction surgery.
The Oceanside-based company's stock closed at 95 cents per share, up 15 cents for the day.
Dr. Paul H. Chen is conducting the trial with the UCSD Shiley Eye Center, the Burnham Institute in La Jolla, the University of Michigan and other centers.
The trial will test whether adding the corneal cells after a laser surgery called photorefractive keratectomy, or PRK, can speed healing and reduce pain. Chen is also testing parthenogenically produced keratinocytes, a type of skin cell, Krstich said.
PRK is one popular kind of operation to correct vision. During the surgery the surface cells are removed. The procedure can cause pain and healing takes longer than another popular corrective surgery, LASIK, which preserves the surface cells, Krstich said.
(Click on the link below to read the article in full.)
Source: http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2008/01/15/business/news/7_10_411_14_08.prt
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
ISCO to Provide Corneal Epithelial Cells Differentiated from Its Parthenogenetic Stem Cells for Use in Photorefractive Keratectomy FDA Clinical Trial
International Stem Cell (OTCBB:ISCO) announced today that it will be providing corneal epithelial cells, derived from its Parthenogenetic stem cells and human keratinocytes (a type of skin cell), for use in Federal Drug Administration (FDA) clinical trials aimed at creating a tissue transplant technology to improve photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).
ISCO entered into a research agreement with Dr. Paul H. Chen, M.D. who has developed the cell transfer technology. He has a separate collaboration with the University of Michigan and is expanding his research team to include the University of California San Diego Shiley Eye Center, and Burnham Research Institute, both located in La Jolla, CA, and The State University New York (SUNY) Albany. Dr. Chen is on staff at Scripps Memorial, La Jolla and Scripps Encinitas Hospitals.
Today's announcement is part of ISCO's efforts to increase the clinical utility of its discoveries in culturing corneal-like tissues from its Parthenogenetic stem cells and to provide human stem cells for the study and cure of disease. Parthenogenetic cells come from unfertilized human eggs and can be immune-matched to millions of people therefore reducing ethical and immune rejection issues. "Our goal, in addition to conducting our own clinical trials in our targeted areas of ocular, liver and pancreatic diseases, is to do collaborations with other prominent researchers and provide our Parthenogenetic stem cells for their human trials," said Jeff Krstich, CEO, International Stem Cell Corporation.
"It is exciting to have our cells involved in studies that could lead to a safer and more effective treatment that hopefully will provide improved visual recovery, less pain, and an improved refractive correction outcome," noted Krstich. "If successful, such technology might also provide broader applications for the treatment of a variety of conditions, including non-healing epithelial defects, such as diabetic epithelial defects, neuropathic epithelial defects, and alkali burn epithelial defects."
PRK was the first clinical laser procedure to be developed for refractive vision correction, but lost favor to LASIK because the PRK procedure calls for laser ablation of the surface of the cornea which is relatively more painful and requires a longer healing time. PRK's advantages, however, include better vision improvement and fewer side effects associated with complications of the surgical "flap" that is created in the LASIK process. The PRK procedure does not require the creation of a flap and is associated with less risk of corneal ectasia, dry eyes, flap striae and epithelial ingrowth.
ABOUT INTERNATIONAL STEM CELL CORPORATION:
International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) is a California biotechnology company focused on developing therapeutic and research products. ISCO's technology, Parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cell lines from unfertilized human eggs that can be transplanted without immune-rejection. One of these lines called phSC-Hhom-4 can be a source of therapeutic cells that will not be immune rejected after transplantation into millions of individuals of differing sexes, ages and racial groups. These advancements offer the potential to create the first true "Stem Cell Bank" and addresses critical ethical issues by eliminating the need to use or destroy fertilized embryos. ISCO also produces and sells specialized cells and growth media worldwide for therapeutic research through its subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology. For more information, visit the ISCO website at: www.internationalstemcell.com.
To subscribe to receive ongoing corporate communications please click on the following link: www.b2i.us/irpass.asp?BzID=1468&to=ea&s=0
About Dr. Paul H. Chen, M.D.
Dr. Paul H. Chen is a Board Certified ophthalmologist who provides comprehensive eye care with an interest in cataracts, glaucoma, eyelid enhancements, and laser vision correction.
Dr. Chen graduated summa cum laude in Molecular Biology from Princeton University and received his MD degree from Harvard Medical School. He completed his specialty training in Ophthalmology at the UCSF Medical Center in San Francisco.
His laboratory investigations have resulted in several scientific publications. Furthermore, he is the inventor of two U.S. patents used for the rapid diagnosis of infections. Dr. Chen has been involved in FDA clinical research on new eye drop treatments for corneal erosions, and he performed the first AlphaCor artificial corneal implants in San Diego County.
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements pertaining to future financial and/or operating results, future growth in research, technology, clinical development and potential opportunities for the company and its subsidiary, along with other statements about the future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans, or prospects expressed by management constitute forward-looking statements. Any statements that are not historical fact (including, but not limited to statements that contain words such as "will," "believes," "plans," "anticipates," "expects," "estimates,") should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, risks inherent in the development and/or commercialization of potential products, uncertainty in the results of clinical trials or regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, and maintenance of intellectual property rights. Actual results may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements and as such should be evaluated together with the many uncertainties that affect the company's business, particularly those mentioned in the cautionary statements found in the company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. The company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
International Stem Cell Corporation
Kenneth C. Aldrich, Chairman
kaldrich@intlstemcell.com
or
Jeff Krstich, CEO
jkrstich@intlstemcell.com
760-940-6383
or
Media Relations:
The Orbach Company, Inc.
Nevena Orbach, 818-904-0500
nevena@orbachco.com
