RNL Bio makes progress with new stem cell therapy for liver cirrhosis

April 2, 2008 - PRLog -- RNL Bio, a leading stem cell firm announced that hepatobiliary cells were formed from fat derived stem cells and verified to function as natural liver cells. The research, led by Dr. Colin McGuckin of Newcastle University in UK, showed that RNL’s fat-derived stem cells were able to differentiate into mature hepatocytes and scientists were able to identify liver specific albumin. Furthermore, the cells showed the ability to convert glucose into glycogen just as liver cells would.

In 2006, Dr. McGuckin and his team was in the spotlight for their achievement in growing the world's first artificial liver (of one pence size) from umbilical cord blood stem cells. RNL Bio’s recent establishment of a European subsidiary at Newcastle university allowed the seamless cooperation between the Korean and UK scientists, which led to the recent advance.

They are making a way that disease like liver cirrhosis could be treated with patient’s own stem cells without the risk of immune complications observed in current liver transplantation. They also might not need to wait the suitable donor because they can use their own stem cells. RNL Bio recommends storing stem cells while one is younger to preserve the potency of the cells for a potential future treatment.  The firm hopes to develop the liver regeneration technology and deliver it to the millions that are looking for a treatment.

The prevalence of infection with hepatitis B virus is around 8% in South Korea. In the UK, there has been a significant increase in liver cirrhosis during the past 20 years and most liver diseases are linked to heavy drinking and obesity. As liver disease is the fifth highest cause of death in both countries, the development of a treatment has been prioritized.

About RNL Bio Co Ltd.

RNL Bio is a premier biotechnology company in Korea focused on stem cell therapeutics and life sciences technologies. Headquartered in Seoul with a recently opened state-of-the-art GMP facility, RNL is a publicly traded company on the Korean Stock Exchange (Code 003190) and strives to become a global leader in the development of stem cell therapeutics. In 2006 RNL established wholly owned US subsidiary, RNL Biostar, for clinical development in the US and for licensing its technologies in North and South America.

Website: rnl.co.kr/eng/