ABCB5 as a marker for highly potent mesenchymal stem cells
In 2003, scientists led by Prof. Dr. Markus Frank at the Boston Children's Hospital - a teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts - described a new and previously uncharacterized group of mesenchymal stem cells expressing ABCB5 in human skin. These cells have unique immunomodulatory properties and regenerative potential that make them unique candidates for treating inflammatory and degenerative diseases.
Anti-inflammation:
the key mechanism of ABCB5
One of the leading causes of untreatable conditions is local or systemic inflammation, which prevents the body from activating the regeneration process.
The administration of ABCB5-positive stem cells to patients triggers anti-inflammation through interaction with immune cells (e.g. macrophages, T-cells, B-cells), thereby switching from a pro-inflammatory to an anti-inflammatory environment, giving the body a chance to recover.
ABCB5+ mesenchymal stem cells trigger switch from pro-inflammatory M1 to anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages
From local inflammation to cytokine storm: the story
Based on scientific evidence, we initially focused on local inflammation in patients suffering from chronic wounds, thereby validating the mechanism of action.
Applying the knowledge gained from local clinical data and additional research programs, we expanded our clinical focus to systemic inflammatory diseases. Working in conjunction with world-renowned experts, we went on to develop a clinical research program focusing on patients with a rare pediatric disease accompanied by systemic inflammation and unmet medical needs.
Motivated by our knowledge of how stem cells modulate inflammation, we took our clinical program to the next level: a systemic life-threatening, inflammatory condition with massive cytokine storm, ultimately proving fatal.
Localized
inflammations
e.g. chronic, non-healing wounds
Generalized
inflammatory processes
e.g. recessive, dystrophic Epidermolysis bullosa
Systemic life-threatening
inflammations
e.g. acute-on-chronic-liver failure
From bench to bedside: allogeneic off-the-shelf stem cell therapeutics
Based on research, we developed a unique patented manufacturing process isolating ABCB5-positive cells as an ultrapure high potent subpopulation of mesenchymal stem cells with defined quality and release criteria. That brings the product to the patient.