The founder and chairman of MediStem Panama, Dr. Neil Riordan, outlines the work of his unique institute, which is at the forefront of research on adult stem cells that are used to treat a variety of chronic diseases, including multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and autism.
Riordan says that while the initial focus in the field of stem cell research was on embryonic stem cells – which can become any tissue in the body – research has also moved on to other areas. “What we found is that there are other stem cells. There are adult stem cells, and then there are postnatal stem cells – stem cells that can be taken after a baby’s born.”
Of the two types of adult stem cells – tissue based and bone marrow based – his company typically works with the tissue-based stem cells from the umbilical cords, from full-term deliveries. “We’re studying spinal cord injury, we’re studying multiple sclerosis, we’re studying rheumatoid arthritis,” Riordan says of the company’s current focus. “We’re also studying heart failure, osteoarthritis and autism.”
Concerning the skepticism by some doctors to his treatment methods, Riordan said he thinks most of the critics will be silenced by the results of clinical trials currently being conducted. “Typically, once a doctor comes down and sees our facility, and sees our clean rooms, sees our ISO-certified laboratory, they’re typically converted at that point.”
He also explains that because there are patent issues with the types of umbilical cord and tissue-based cells he uses in treatments, it is more difficult to attract biotechnology investment.
“It takes $800 million to $1 billion to get a new drug through the FDA, and if you don’t have a good, strong patent position, biotech and pharma companies aren’t particularly interested in going down that road and investing in something that will not get a return on the investment.”
Watch the full episode for more on Riordan’s stem cell research, including a firsthand account from a man paralyzed after a spinal cord injury who made a dramatic recovery after getting stem cell treatment.
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