Stem Cells

TiGenix is exploring the use of allogeneic therapies, which use cells derived from an unrelated donor source rather than from the patients themselves. Allogeneic therapies have the advantage that they can be prepared in advance and used in acute indications. The simplified logistics and reduced costs associated with these “off the shelf” cell products would significantly broaden the market acceptance and use of cell-based therapies. Stem cells might be well suited for allogeneic applications. TiGenix is developing a proprietary stem cell platform based on adult mesenchymal stem cells isolated from the synovial membrane of the knee. This stem cell platform forms a basis for broadening the applications, as it can be used in cartilage, bone, meniscus, tendon and muscle tissue repair.

In addition, TiGenix has developed a set of high-content screening assays that use human chondrocytes and adult stem cells to assess the effect of selected compounds on the different aspects of cartilage biology. These assays enable the biologically intelligent screening of compounds, identifying those with a potential therapeutic effect in osteoarthritis.

To explore the potential of stem cells in joint regeneration, TiGenix has entered into a number of academic collaborations and is working closely together with, among others, the University of Leuven (Belgium) and the University of Hasselt (Belgium).