Cell Therapy - Technologies, Markets and Companies

This report describes and evaluates cell therapy technologies and methods, which have already started to play an important role in the practice of medicine. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is replacing the old fashioned bone marrow transplants. Role of cells in drug discovery is also described. Cell therapy is bound to become a part of medical practice.

Stem cells are discussed in detail in one chapter. Some light is thrown on the current controversy of embryonic sources of stem cells and comparison with adult sources. Other sources of stem cells such as the placenta, cord blood and fat removed by liposuction are also discussed. Stem cells can also be genetically modified prior to transplantation.

Cell therapy technologies overlap with those of gene therapy, cancer vaccines, drug delivery, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Pharmaceutical applications of stem cells including those in drug discovery are also described. Various types of cells used, methods of preparation and culture, encapsulation and genetic engineering of cells are discussed. Sources of cells, both human and animal (xenotransplantation) are discussed. Methods of delivery of cell therapy range from injections to surgical implantation using special devices.

Cell therapy has applications in a large number of disorders. The most important are diseases of the nervous system and cancer which are the topics for separate chapters. Other applications include cardiac disorders (myocardial infarction and heart failure), diabetes mellitus, diseases of bones and joints, genetic disorders, and wounds of the skin and soft tissues.

Regulatory and ethical issues involving cell therapy are important and are discussed. Current political debate on the use of stem cells from embryonic sources (hESCs) is also presented. Safety is an essential consideration of any new therapy and regulations for cell therapy are those for biological preparations.

The cell-based markets was analyzed for 2007, and projected to 2017.The markets are analyzed according to therapeutic categories, technologies and geographical areas. The largest expansion will be in diseases of the central nervous system, cancer and cardiovascular disorders. Skin and soft tissue repair as well as diabetes mellitus will be other major markets.

The number of companies involved in cell therapy has increased remarkably during the past few years. More than 500 companies have been identified to be involved in cell therapy and 235 of these are profiled in part II of the report along with tabulation of 202 alliances. Of these companies, 121 are involved in stem cells. The text is supplemented with 42 Tables and 9 Figures. The bibliography contains 750 selected references, which are cited in the text.

Table of contents

Introduction to Cell Therapy

Cell Therapy Technologies

Stem Cells

Clinical Applications of Cell Therapy

Cell Therapy of Cardiovascular Disorders

Cell Therapy for Cancer

Cell Therapy for Neurological Disorders

Ethical, regulatory, and, safety Aspects of Cell Therapy

Markets and future prospects for Cell Therapy

Companies Involved in Cell Therapy

August 2008. 862 Pages. 44 Tables, 9 Figures, 245 Companies profiled, 235 Alliances listed and 750 References.
Table of Contents
Full Table of Contents - DOC

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