LifeCell, the Chennai-based cord blood banking major, is in talks with various Indian and international universities to do a collaborative programme in stem cell research. Some universities from Chennai and Andhra Pradesh have already evinced interest in the tie-up and more are expected to come. The names of the universities could not be disclosed now.

"This tie-up was planned after we saw the interest of the students in conducting stem cell research. The students have begun to realize the therapeutic value of stem cells. They have understood that certain diseases, which are impossible to be cured, could be treated with stem cells. So, many are opting for stem cell research. This is one of the reasons why we have forayed into this tie-up which would be in an industry-academic pattern," said Dr CC Harish, assistant director, R&D, LifeCell.

Speaking about the on-going research work in their organization, Harish said that the researchers were trying to isolate stem cells from other sources like liposection material and cord lining. They are said to be on the verge of standardizing the technology.

Liposection and cord linings are rich in stem cells but they are most often discarded as biomedical waste. After the clinical trials we have found out that the stem cells so derived are beneficial for cosmetic surgeries and other areas where they can be used are still under experimentation. We are standardizing the entire procedure right from ground level. We are developing a systematic methodology, which would have to be followed right from stem cell collection till its transportation. This is a pilot project, " said Harish.

As Pharmabiz had reported earlier, LifeCell had planned to launch Plureon Placental stem cells from placental tissues as a new source for stem cells in India for the first time, by March 2007. But the launch may be delayed till the end of this year as the clinical trials are on and the technology transfer from US was taking some time. Harish expressed hope that it would be launched by the end of 2007.

LifeCell's team of scientists are globally renowned for their expertise with the extra cellular matrix and are currently involved in a wide range of research activities spanning multiple therapeutic areas, including reconstructive surgery, orthopaedics and cardiovascular applications.