International Stem Cell Corporation Completes $5 Million Financing and Elects Jim Berglund to the Board of Directors

CARLSBAD, Calif. (March 12, 2012) – International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB:ISCO) www.internationalstemcell.com, a California-based biotechnology company focused on therapeutic, cosmetic and research products, announced today that it had obtained new capital financing and made important changes in the composition of its Board of Directors to ensure that Independent Directors hold the majority of Board seats.

The financing consists of $5 million in newly issued Series G Convertible Preferred Stock (without warrants), convertible into Common Stock at a conversion price of $0.40/share, the market price of the Company’s Common Stock on the date the offer to purchase was made.  This financing was made by AR Partners LLC, a healthcare investment firm owned by Dr. Andrey Semechkin ISCO’s CEO and Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Concurrently with the closing of this financing, the Company elected to its Board of Directors Dr. James Berglund, co-founder of Enterprise Partners Venture Capital - one of the premier venture capital firms in the field of healthcare technology founded in 1985. Dr. Berglund, with his extensive professional experience, continues as an active participant in the biotech and healthcare industries. Dr. Berglund will replace Kenneth C. Aldrich, co-founder and former CEO of the Company during the period 2008-2009, who is stepping down as ISCO Board of Directors Co-Chairman. Although Mr. Aldrich is retiring from our Board, he will remain as one of ISCO’s largest shareholders and an active consultant to the Board and executive management and will continue to represent the Company as “Chairman Emeritus” in a variety of public and private venues.

According to Mr. Aldrich, “In my view, Dr. Semechkin’s willingness to commit such a significant amount of capital to ISCO at the market price of the Company’s stock on the date of his offer represents a major vote of confidence in ISCO’s future by its most senior executive. We are thankful to Dr. Semechkin for his support that will further advance ISCO’s parthenogenetic stem cell-based therapeutic programs and income generating businesses.”

Having a majority of independent directors on our company’s Board represents an important step in ISCO’s development and in transforming ISCO into a leading public company in the field of regenerative medicine.

“I want to thank Mr. Aldrich for his long-standing dedication and continued involvement in guiding the Company,” said Dr. Semechkin. “This long-term investment, along with the new executive management team recruited over the previous twelve months, will provide ISCO with the necessary economic stability and resources to pursue its goals of consolidating our leadership position and accelerating our therapeutic programs” continued Dr. Semechkin.

About International Stem Cell Corporation

International Stem Cell Corporation is focused on the therapeutic applications of human parthenogenetic stem cells and the development and commercialization of cell-based research and cosmetic products.  ISCO's core technology, parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cells from unfertilized oocytes (eggs). HpSCs avoid ethical issues associated with the use or destruction of viable human embryos.  ISCO scientists have created the first parthenogenic, homozygous stem cell line that can be a source of therapeutic cells with minimal immune rejection after transplantation into hundreds of millions of individuals of differing genders, ages and racial backgrounds.  This offers the potential to create the first true stem cell bank, UniStemCell™.  ISCO also produces and markets specialized cells and growth media for therapeutic research worldwide through its subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology, and cell-based skin care products through its subsidiary Lifeline Skin Care.  More information is available 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 anticipated developments and other opportunities for the company and its subsidiaries, 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 and the management of collaborations, regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, application of capital resources among competing uses, 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 forward-looking statements.

Contacts:

International Stem Cell Corporation

Andrey Semechkin, Co-Chairman and CEO

760-940-6383

aes@intlstemcell.com

Kurt May, President/COO

760-940-6383

kmay@intlstemcell.com

Lippert/Heilshorn & Associates 

Don Markley (dmarkley@lhai.com)

310-691-7100

International Stem Cell Corporation to Present at the Roth Conference on March 14, 2012

International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB:ISCO) today announced that Co-Chairman Kenneth Aldrich and President and Chief Operating Officer Kurt May will be presenting at the 24th Annual Roth Conference on Wednesday, March 14, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. Pacific time. The conference is being held March 11-14 at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Dana Point, California.

About International Stem Cell Corporation

International Stem Cell Corporation is focused on the therapeutic applications of human parthenogenetic stem cells (hpSCs) and the development and commercialization of cell-based research and cosmetic products. ISCO's core technology, parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cells from unfertilized oocytes (eggs). hpSCs avoid ethical issues associated with the use or destruction of viable human embryos. ISCO scientists have created the first parthenogenic, homozygous stem cell line that can be a source of therapeutic cells for hundreds of millions of individuals of differing genders, ages and racial background with minimal immune rejection after transplantation. hpSCs offer the potential to create the first true stem cell bank, UniStemCell™. ISCO also produces and markets specialized cells and growth media for therapeutic research worldwide through its subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology, and cell-based skin care products through its subsidiary Lifeline Skin Care. More information is available 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.

International Stem Cell Corporation

Kenneth C. Aldrich, Co-Chairman

760-940-6383

kaldrich@intlstemcell.com

International Stem Cell Corporation - "How Is Parthenogenesis Done?"

San Diego Research Ethics ConsortiumSalk Institute for Biological Studies

Parthenogenetic stem cell lines:  Ethical considerations

International Stem Cell’s Director of Research and Therapeutic Development, Nikolay Turovets, PhD, presents “How is Parthenogenesis Done?”

How is Parthenogenesis Done? (ANIMATED)

Human Parthenogenetic Stem Cell Derived Neuronal Cells as a Tool for Parkinson’s Disease Treatment by Dr. Ruslan Semechkin

Human Parthenogenetic Stem Cell Derived Neuronal Cells as a Tool for Parkinson’s Disease Treatment by Dr. R...

International Stem Cell Corporation to Present at the 4th Annual LD MICRO Growth Conference on December 8th

International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB:ISCO) today announced that Co-Chairman Ken Aldrich and President and Chief Operating Officer Kurt May will be presenting at the 4th Annual LD MICRO Growth Conference in Los Angeles on Thursday, December 8, 2011 at 2:30 p.m. Pacific. The conference is being held at the Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel.

LD Micro founder Chris Lahiji stated, "We are excited to host over 100 companies for the first time in our history. What makes us especially proud, however, are all the interesting companies from our own backyard in Southern California, such as International Stem Cell, that are presenting this year."

About International Stem Cell Corporation

International Stem Cell Corporation is focused on the therapeutic applications of human parthenogenetic stem cells (hpSCs) and the development and commercialization of cell-based research and cosmetic products. ISCO's core technology, parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cells from unfertilized oocytes (eggs). hpSCs avoid ethical issues associated with the use or destruction of viable human embryos. ISCO scientists have created the first parthenogenic, homozygous stem cell line that can be a source of therapeutic cells for hundreds of millions of individuals of differing genders, ages and racial background with minimal immune rejection after transplantation. hpSCs offer the potential to create the first true stem cell bank, UniStemCell™. ISCO also produces and markets specialized cells and growth media for therapeutic research worldwide through its subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology, and cell-based skin care products through its subsidiary Lifeline Skin Care. More information is available 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 anticipated developments, potential sales growth and other opportunities for the company and its subsidiaries, 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 and the management of collaborations, regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, application of capital resources among competing uses, 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 forward-looking statements.

International Stem Cell Corporation
Kenneth C. Aldrich, Co-Chairman
760-940-6383
kaldrich@intlstemcell.com
or
LHA
Don Markley
310-691-7100
dmarkley@lhai.com

International Stem Cell Corporation to Present Immune Matching Research Advances at Cell Science and Stem Cell Research 2011 Conference

Executives from International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB:ISCO), a biotechnology company specializing in the research and development of stem cell-based therapies, will be presenting advances made in its research programs related to the use of immune-matched patient-specific parthenogenetic stem cells for neurological applications and genetic liver diseases at Cell Science 2011 in Philadelphia on November 29^th.

Vice President Ruslan Semechkin, Ph.D., will open the conference and discuss the latest trends in the use of stem cells to treat diseases of the central nervous system. A follow-on presentation will demonstrate that functional dopaminergic neurons can be successfully obtained from human parthenogenetic stem cells. Alina Ostrowska, Ph.D., the Company's Director of Translational Research, will present a new method of obtaining highly-enriched cultures of hepatocyte-like cells from pluripotent human stem cells.

Dr Semechkin comments, "I'm honored to be opening this conference and to be debating the latest advances in stem cell therapies. ISCO will also be presenting the most recent results from two of our most important research programs, where we continue to further characterize our parthenogenetic stem cell lines and their ability to form functioning liver-like cell and functioning neuron-like cells."

ISCO uses unfertilized oocytes to create human parthenogenetic stem cells, an approach that offers a number of distinct advantages over other types of human pluripotent stem cells. Like human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), hpSCs are pluripotent, i.e. they have the capacity to become almost any cell type in the body, yet avoid ethical issues associated with use or destruction of viable human embryos. Unlike hESCs, hpSCs can be created in a form such that they can be immunologically matched to millions of individuals. ISCO maintains the world's largest collection of research-grade hpSC lines.

About International Stem Cell Corporation

International Stem Cell Corporation is focused on the therapeutic applications of human parthenogenetic stem cells (hpSCs) and the development and commercialization of cell-based research and cosmetic products. ISCO's core technology, parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cells from unfertilized oocytes (eggs). hpSCs avoid ethical issues associated with the use or destruction of viable human embryos. ISCO scientists have created the first parthenogenic, homozygous stem cell line that can be a source of therapeutic cells for hundreds of millions of individuals of differing genders, ages and racial background with minimal immune rejection after transplantation. hpSCs offer the potential to create the first true stem cell bank, UniStemCell™. ISCO also produces and markets specialized cells and growth media for therapeutic research worldwide through its subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology, and cell-based skin care products through its subsidiary Lifeline Skin Care. More information is available 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 anticipated developments, potential sales growth and other opportunities for the company and its subsidiaries, 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 and the management of collaborations, regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, application of capital resources among competing uses, 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 forward-looking statements.

International Stem Cell Corporation
Kenneth C. Aldrich, Co-Chairman
760-940-6383
kaldrich@intlstemcell.com
Or:
Dr. Ruslan Semechkin, Vice President
760-940-6383
ras@intlstemcell.com
Or:
Lippert/Heilshorn & Associates
Don Markley
310-691-7100
dmarkley@lhai.com

Listen to International Stem Cell Corporation's November 17th Business Update Conference Call

To listen to International Stem Cell Corporation's November 17th Business Update Conference Call, please click HERE

International Stem Cell Corporation's Kenneth Aldrich - The Wall Street Transcript

If trouble viewing, please click here - International Stem Cell - TWST

Letter to the International Stem Cell Corporation Shareholders and Followers

To the shareholders and followers of International Stem Cell Corporation:

You’ve likely seen stem cells in the news recently, and we’d like to take an opportunity to give you our views on two of the recent announcements. 

First, International Stem Cell Corporation announced yesterday earnings for the third quarter 2011.  We’ll be hosting a conference call on Thursday, November 17, 2011 at 10:00 AM PST to discuss key developments in the quarter, provide our outlook and answer your questions.   Individuals interested in listening to the conference call may do so by dialing 877-407-8033 for domestic callers or 201-689-8033 for international callers, or from the webcast on the investor relations section of the Company’s Web site at www.internationalstemcell.com. 

Second, Geron’s decision, announced yesterday, to terminate its stem cell R&D program in no way affects ISCO’s current strategy or developmental activities, nor does it alter our optimism for the potential of stem cells to eventually treat a broad-range of diseases and conditions.  While Geron may be reprioritizing programs, we are committed to the course we are on. 

Additionally, ISCO will continue its discussions with CIRM regarding possible funding for our truly unique parthenogenesis technology, particularly in light of the $25 million previously earmarked for Geron coming available for other investments.

Thank you for your interest in ISCO.  We hope you will join us for the conference call.

Sincerely,

Ken Aldrich

International Stem Cell Corporation Announces Third Quarter 2011 Financial Results

CARLSBAD, California – November 15, 2011 - International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) (OTCBB:ISCO) today announced financial results for the three-month and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2011.  ISCO is a development-stage biotechnology company that created, patented and is commercializing a powerful new stem cell technology called parthenogenesis which promises to advance significantly the field of regenerative medicine.

ISCO reported revenue of $0.84 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2011, a 141% increase from the same period of the prior year.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, the Company reported revenue of $3.47 million, a year-over-year increase of 227%.  The increases in revenue was driven by strong sales from the initial launch of ISCO’s wholly-owned subsidiary Lifeline Skin Care (LSC), which commenced operations in the fourth quarter of 2010.  In addition, steady growth in sales from ISCO’s other wholly-owned subsidiary, Lifeline Cell Technology (LCT), contributed to the increases in revenues for both periods. 

The Company continued to invest in the development of new technologies, products and channels of distribution.  For the three months ended September 30, 2011, development expenses, excluding cost of sales, were $3.60 million, an increase of 15% compared to the third quarter of 2010, reflecting increased R&D activities on therapeutic programs and new product development for both subsidiaries.  Sales and marketing expenses related to our skin care products, partially offset by a reduction in general and administration expenses, also contributed to the increase in development expenses.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, development expenses, excluding cost of sales, were $10.77 million, an increase of 30% when compared with the prior year period.   The increase is attributed primarily to increased research activities on therapeutic products and product development programs for LSC and LCT, increased stock-based compensation expense, increased headcount and higher general corporate expenses coupled with increased sales and marketing expenses related to our skin care products.

Dr. Andrey Semechkin, co-Chairman and CEO, commented “We are pleased with the rapid growth in sales of our two subsidiaries, LSC and LCT.  Together, these business units are providing much-needed capital to help support our growth as well as the research leading to the development of new stem cell technologies and products.”   Kurt May, President and COO, noted “Our focus continues to be on maximizing the performance of our operating subsidiaries,  advancing the development and commercialization of our therapeutic products and strengthening our organization and operating systems to accommodate our anticipated rapid and significant growth.”

Third Quarter 2011 Highlights:

Important developments and milestones for International Stem Cell in the third quarter included:

-- Continuing to solidify its leadership team with the addition of Linh Nguyen as ISCO’s new Chief Financial Officer.  Further, the Board of Directors elevated Kurt May to President and Chief Operating Officer and Dr. Semechkin to co-Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer.

-- Renewing the marketing agreement with John Mauldin to promote its Lifeline Skin Care products and commenced a new sales channel to resorts and destination spas.

-- Lifeline Cell Technology began selling products through new distribution channels in Japan, Korea, Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia, expanding its business throughout Asia.

-- ISCO scientists successfully completed the first series of preclinical studies designed to support the application of neuronal cells derived from hpSCs.  These experiments were designed to demonstrate that the derived neuronal cells were able to survive in mouse brains without giving rise to tumors.

About International Stem Cell Corporation

International Stem Cell Corporation is focused on the therapeutic applications of human parthenogenetic stem cells (hpSCs) and the development and commercialization of cell-based research and cosmetic products.  ISCO's core technology, parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cells from unfertilized oocytes (eggs). hpSCs avoid ethical issues associated with the use or destruction of viable human embryos.  ISCO scientists have created the first parthenogenic, homozygous stem cell line that can be a source of therapeutic cells for hundreds of millions of individuals of differing genders, ages and racial background with minimal immune rejection after transplantation.  hpSCs offer the potential to create the first true stem cell bank, UniStemCell™.  ISCO also produces and markets specialized cells and growth media for therapeutic research worldwide through its subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology, and cell-based skin care products through its subsidiary Lifeline Skin Care.  More information is available 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 anticipated developments, anticipated sales growth and other opportunities for the company and its subsidiaries, 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 and the management of collaborations, regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, application of capital resources among competing uses, 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 forward-looking statements.

Contacts:

International Stem Cell Corporation

Andrey Semechkin, CEO & Co-Chairman

760-940-6383

aes@intlstemcell.com

International Stem Cell Corporation

Kurt May, President & COO

760-710-3294

kmay@intlstemcell.com

International Stem Cell Corporation

Linh Nguyen, CFO

760-940-6383

LNguyen@intlstemcell.com

Lippert/Heilshorn & Associates

Don Markley

310-691-7100

dmarkley@lhai.com

Please click on the pages below to enlarge.

1) The Company restated its financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2010 and the quarter ended March 31, 2011. See explanatory note after cover page of this 10-Q and Note 1 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.  See accompanying notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

California Stem Cell Report Article: “Trounson, Parthenotes and International Stem Cell”

Source: http://californiastemcellreport.blogspot.com/2011/11/trounson-parthenotes-and-international.html

The president of the California Stem Cell Agency, Alan Trounson, popped up in a recent article in Scientific American dealing with a method for creating pluripotent stem cells from unfertilized human eggs. 

The piece by Julia Galef said that "many investigators remain frustrated" that the method "remains offlimits" for federal funding, a barrier that does not apply to financing from the $3 billion California stem cell agency. 

Galef wrote that one California firm, International Stem Cell Corp., of Carlsbad, is using the method to develop products. She said the firm's work involves "a process called parthenogenesis, in which researchers use chemicals to induce the egg to begin developing as if it had been fertilized. The egg—called a parthenote—behaves just like an embryo in the early stages of division. Because it contains no genetic material from a father, however, it cannot develop into a viable fetus." 

To read the complete article on "California Stem Cell Report", please click here  

International Stem Cell Corporation Comments on WSJ Article “Hope for Stem-Cell Treatment of Parkinson's”

Article: Hope for Stem-CellTreatment of Parkinson's BY GAUTAM NAIK – The Wall Street Journal HEALTH

“Researchers have used stem cells obtained from human embryos to successfully treat Parkinson's disease in mice and rats, a key step in the quest to develop a similar approach for people.

In a study published Sunday in the journal Nature, scientists described how they converted human embryonic stem cells into nerve cells that produced the brain chemical dopamine. When these nerve cells were transplanted into the brains of mice and rats, they released dopamine and got rid of the animals' Parkinson's symptoms. The cells were also successfully transplanted into rhesus monkeys, whose biology is closer to that of humans.”

SOURCE - To read the complete article on The Wall Street Journal HEALTH site, please click HERE

Comments from International Stem Cell Corporation:

International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) announced in July 2011 the initiation of a series of preclinical animal studies of neuronal cells derived from ISCO’s proprietary pluripotent stem cells. The studies will evaluate the in vivo safety and tumorigenicity of neuronal cells derived from ISCO's proprietary human parthenogenetic stem cells (hpSCs), as well as their ability to develop into functioning dopaminergic neuron–like cells, a key milestone towards creating a cell-based therapy for Parkinson's Disease (PD).

Dr. Andrey Semechkin, Co-Chairman and CEO of ISCO, comments: “The ability of neuronal cells to become a specific type of neuron is one of the most important properties that these cells must have to be used in cell-based therapy of neurological disorders. These studies will bring us one step closer to our goal of being able to treat PD.”

Forward-looking Statements

Statements pertaining to anticipated developments, research and development goals and related potential therapeutic treatments, the potential benefits of products, and other opportunities for the company and its subsidiaries, 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 and the management of collaborations, regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, application of capital resources among competing uses, 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 forward-looking statements.

International Stem Cell's Research Scientists Successfully Completed the First Series of Preclinical Animal Trials of Neuronal Cells

International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB: ISCO) announces today successful completion of the first series of preclinical studies designed to support the safety and utility of neuronal cells derived from human parthenogenetic stem cell line (hpSC). These initial experiments, demonstrating that the derived neuronal cells were able to survive in mice brains without giving rise to tumors, represent a key milestone towards possible therapeutic applications including treating Parkinson's disease.


Dr. Albrecht Müller, Professor at the Institute of Medical Radiology and Cell Research, Würzburg University (Germany), commented: "Human parthenogenetic stem cells are potentially very promising candidates for use in regenerative medicine primarily because of the possibility that they immune-match a large number of recipients. The result of these safety and survival studies is a very important step along the path towards the clinical use of such cells."


Although most cases of Parkinson's disease occur in people with no family history of the disease, a number of genetic mutations have nevertheless been identified with the disease. While the inheritance pattern is largely unknown, as a condition with a genetic component "autologous" treatment, that is to say treatment using the patient's own cells, is far from ideal and does not offer the potential of a cure. To treat Parkinson's disease successfully a source of cells free of the mutated genes is necessary. Human parthenogenetic stem cells provide this source, as well as superior immune-matching capabilities.


ISCO currently has the world's largest collection of human parthenogenetic stem cells including heterozygous examples, where the cells immune match the donor as is the case with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS), and homozygous examples which immune-match millions of individuals. ISCO is actively expanding this collection of cell lines and creating a "bank" of homozygous human parthenogenetic stem cells that can be used as a platform to not only reduce the chances of tissue rejection, but also make cellular-based therapies economically more viable.


Dr. Ruslan Semechkin, ISCO's Vice President, commented: "One of ISCO's main therapeutic targets is treatment of Parkinson's disease, a common neurodegenerative disease in the US, where the current standard of care is designed mostly to treat the symptoms, but not the disease. These results clearly represent an important step towards the therapeutic application of human parthenogenetic stem cells derived cells in addressing the basic underlying mechanisms and potentially transforming the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases."


About International Stem Cell Corporation
International Stem Cell Corporation is focused on the therapeutic applications of human parthenogenetic stem cells and the development and commercialization of cell-based research and cosmetic products. ISCO's core technology, parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cells from unfertilized oocytes (eggs). hpSCs avoid ethical issues associated with the use or destruction of viable human embryos. ISCO scientists have created the first parthenogenic, homozygous stem cell line that can be a source of therapeutic cells with minimal immune rejection after transplantation into hundreds of millions of individuals of differing genders, ages and racial background. This offers the potential to create the first true stem cell bank, UniStemCellTM. ISCO also produces and markets specialized cells and growth media for therapeutic research worldwide through its subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology, and cell-based skin care products through its subsidiary Lifeline Skin Care. More information is available 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 anticipated developments, research and development goals and related potential therapeutic treatments, the potential benefits of products, and other opportunities for the company and its subsidiaries, 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 and the management of collaborations, regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, application of capital resources among competing uses, 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 forward-looking statements.


International Stem Cell Corporation
Kenneth C. Aldrich, co -Chairman
760-940-6383
kaldrich@intlstemcell.com
Or:
Dr. Ruslan Semechkin, Vice President
760-940-6383
ras@intlstemcell.com
Or:
Lippert/Heilshorn & Associates
Don Markley
310-691-7100
dmarkley@lhai.com

International Stem Cell Corp. Chairman Kenneth Aldrich Comments on Recent TIME Article “A Stem Cell First: Using the 'Dolly' Method on Human Cells”

“Since we at International Stem Cell Corporation (trading symbol: ISCO.OB) are licensees of some of the key intellectual property necessary to use SCNT in therapeutic products, we were delighted to read about this new discovery.  However, what disappointed us somewhat was the failure of most news reports to mention that a technology already exists that solves the same ethical problems and has the potential also to solve many of the problems of immune rejection that worry scientists who are working with cells obtained from fertilized embryos.

That technology is called "Parthenogenesis" and results in a "cell line" that can provide an essentially unlimited supply of human cells for a wide range of therapeutic purposes, yet does not involve the destruction of any fertilized embryo and results in cells that can be matched to large groups of people who may not even know the patient, much like the way blood from donors can be stored and used by accident victims as needed. Unlike the SCNT cells, parthenogenetic cells require no genetic manipulation or insertion of foreign DNA.

Our scientists at ISCO created and patented the process for making such human parthenogenetic stem cell lines and have already successfully made liver cells, cornea cells, retina cells and nerve cells from those cell lines.  Each of these applications is being studied as a possible future source of transplanted cells to treat diseases such as Parkinson's, Liver Disease, Macular Degeneration, and others. 

To learn more about parthenogenesis, visit our website at www.internationalstemcell.com or click on ISCO.OB at any financial web site for information about our company.”

Kenneth C. Aldrich

Chairman

International Stem Cell Corporation

TIME Article – A Stem Cell First: Using the 'Dolly' Method on Human Cells

http://healthland.time.com/2011/10/05/a-stem-cell-first-using-the-dolly-method-on-human-cells/

About International Stem Cell Corporation

International Stem Cell Corporation is focused on the therapeutic applications of human parthenogenetic stem cells (hpSCs) and the development and commercialization of cell-based research and cosmetic products. ISCO's core technology, parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cells from unfertilized oocytes (eggs). hpSCs avoid ethical issues associated with the use or destruction of viable human embryos. ISCO scientists have created the first parthenogenic, homozygous stem cell line that can be a source of therapeutic cells for hundreds of millions of individuals of differing genders, ages and racial background with minimal immune rejection after transplantation. hpSCs offer the potential to create the first true stem cell bank, UniStemCell™. ISCO also produces and markets specialized cells and growth media for therapeutic research worldwide through its subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology, and cell-based skin care products through its subsidiary Lifeline Skin Care. More information is available at www.internationalstemcell.com.

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Forward-looking Statements

Statements pertaining to anticipated developments, and other opportunities for the company and its subsidiaries, 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 and the management of collaborations, regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, application of capital resources among competing uses, 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 forward-looking statements.

Representative Brian Bilbray Meets with International Stem Cell Executives to Discuss Research Funding

International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB: ISCO) today announced that Representative Brian Bilbray recently met with Company executives, including Chairman Kenneth Aldrich, President and Chief Executive Officer Andrey Semechkin, and Senior Vice President Kurt May, to discuss key federal government issues relating to stem cell research. Rep. Bilbray represents California's 50th congressional district, which includes portions of San Diego's North County.

Following the meeting, Rep. Bilbray stated, "I have tremendous respect for the innovative healthcare companies in my district, such as International Stem Cell, that are at the forefront of developing important new treatments and therapies. I'm committed to helping remove unnecessary regulations and barriers that may inhibit the research of new life science technologies, and I greatly appreciate the efforts of ISCO's management team to clarify many of the issues surrounding their work."

Said Dr. Semechkin, "We are very pleased to have the opportunity to meet with Congressman Bilbray and explain the importance of our parthenogenesis technology and how it differs from human embryonic stem cell development, particularly from an ethical standpoint. We look forward to continued discussions with Congressman Bilbray and his colleagues regarding the Dickey-Wicker Amendment. We believe that with increased understanding of our technology the National Institutes of Health (NIH) will support parthenogenesis research and development."

About International Stem Cell Corporation

International Stem Cell Corporation is focused on the therapeutic applications of human parthenogenetic stem cells (hpSCs) and the development and commercialization of cell-based research and cosmetic products. ISCO's core technology, parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cells from unfertilized oocytes (eggs). hpSCs avoid ethical issues associated with the use or destruction of viable human embryos. ISCO scientists have created the first parthenogenic, homozygous stem cell line that can be a source of therapeutic cells for hundreds of millions of individuals of differing genders, ages and racial background with minimal immune rejection after transplantation. hpSCs offer the potential to create the first true stem cell bank, UniStemCell™. ISCO also produces and markets specialized cells and growth media for therapeutic research worldwide through its subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology, and cell-based skin care products through its subsidiary Lifeline Skin Care. More information is available 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 anticipated developments, and other opportunities for the company and its subsidiaries, 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 and the management of collaborations, regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, application of capital resources among competing uses, 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 forward-looking statements.

International Stem Cell Corporation

Kenneth C. Aldrich, Chairman

760-940-6383

kaldrich@intlstemcell.com

or

Lippert/Heilshorn & Associates

Don Markley

310-691-7100

dmarkley@lhai.com