Sistemic, the cell characterisation
problem-solving service provider that uses miRNA, is a strong advocate for the
potential of regenerative medicine. Dr Verna McErlane, Sistemic's Director of
Commercial Operations, recently took part in a round-table discussion with
leading stem cell researchers
http://www.sistemic.co.uk/publications. The scientific, ethical and moral debate about the use of
stem cells continues and will soon be taken up in earnest at the World Stem
Cell Summit, taking place from 3-5 October in Pasadena, California, where Dr
McErlane is a key participant.
"The future for regenerative medicine
is huge, but there are issues to be faced on this road to success," said Dr
McErlane. "Firstly we need to establish reliable cell standards, and secondly
these standards should inform the development of a validated and dependable
toolbox for monitoring and characterising stem cells during research and
manufacturing. Only through characterisation can this technology enter the
mainstream clinical practice and provide the patient benefits we are all hoping
for."
Sistemic has developed a stem cell
focused miRNA-based approach called SistemQC
TM which molecularly characterises
cells and monitors their quality. Not only does it give a succinct read out on
the status of the cells but also provides an insight into the underlying
biological effects associated with any change observed. SistemQC
TM is being used
by the stem cell community to optimise and guide the differentiation process,
benchmark differentiated cells and, from a manufacturing perspective, provide
identity markers, purity and potency control. Innovative developments such as
this, as well as other new tools and a consensus on the standardisation of the
process, are that will really drive this industry forward to reach its full
potential.
Dr McErlane went on to say, "Without
adequate control, this unique opportunity to positively impact on the treatment
of many untreatable conditions will be lost. Standardisation is key and
Sistemic are at the forefront of assisting in making Regenerative Medicine a
reality for clinical practice."
Initiated in 2009, the World Stem Cell
Summit (
http://www.worldstemcellsummit.com/) has quickly become one of the largest interdisciplinary,
networking meetings of stem cell stakeholders, which unites the regenerative
medicine industry and biomedical research. For 2011, one of the industry key
note addresses, given by Dr Gil Van Bokkelen co-founder and CEO of Athersys and
Chairman of the Alliance for Regenerative Medicine, of which Sistemic is a key
member , will be; ‘The transformational potential of regenerative medicine, and
how it will change healthcare as we know it'.
Sistemic looks forward to meeting old
colleagues, new faces and learning about the most recent developments in the
field at the upcoming World Stem Cell Summit. Visitors can meet the team at the
Scottish Development International Booth in the exhibit hall. In the meantime,
anyone interested in Sistemic and its products should visit:
www.sistemic.co.uk
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