Founded in 2021, Swedish biotech company Cellcolabs is specialised in scaling up the production of high-quality stem cells to reduce “inflammaging” and prevent other age-related diseases before they occur.
— So-called MSCs (Mesenchymal Stem Cells) offer the potential for enhancing overall health. Utilising their regenerative capabilities allows us not only to target specific skin concerns but also to address underlying factors, which I believe will be the next generation of beauty, CEO Mattias Bernow explains.
MSCs, he continues, are a specific type of stem cell, which exists from birth and can be derived from bone marrow, umbilical cord or adipose tissue.
— They have been the subject of widespread global research for many decades. What’s interesting about them is that they have three properties. They are anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and regenerative. This means that they have the potential to improve or prevent many chronic diseases. MSCs help restore old and damaged cells via their tissue regenerative properties. They also reduce inflammation by regulating the immune response to stable levels. As inflammation is believed to be the root cause of multiple diseases, the anti-inflammation property plays a vital role in the therapeutic use of MSC. It’s also the anti-inflammatory properties of MSCs that have brought them into focus in the field of longevity, as inflammation is considered a significant factor in the ageing process.
What else can you say about the research on how MSCs can affect ageing frailty?
— Several studies on MSCs highlight the cells’ potential for treatment of ageing frailty, possibly in part by diminishing chronic, low-grade inflammation — often referred to as inflammaging — and increasing physical performance. Studies also show that MSCs boost tissue repair and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
— Research also suggests that MSCs can possibly provide protection for nerve cells, enhance cardiovascular health, and prevent sarcopenia — the decline in muscle mass associated with ageing — by promoting muscle repair. These effects could greatly improve the quality of life for older people by tackling various aspects of age-related health problems.
You mentioned tissue repair. How can MSCs have tissue regenerative properties?
— They have the ability to help the body repair by creating a regenerative microenvironment that promotes and supports the natural healing of injured tissue. By secreting numerous bioactive molecules and through direct cell-to-cell contact, MSCs modulate the immune system, reduce harmful inflammation, promote cell survival, and induce the development of new blood vessels in damaged tissue. This helps to create a more favourable environment for recovery. In essence, MSCs support the body’s healing process from multiple angles: rescuing damaged cells, reducing harmful inflammation, enhancing blood supply, and secreting substances that aid tissue repair, Bernow shares.
Mattias Bernow.
We’ve seen several counties where treatments with MSCs are conducted. Can you explain the procedure?
— Yes, there are some countries around the world where these cells are approved as treatment. In addition to approved treatments, there are over 600 ongoing clinical trials around the world evaluating the cells’ potential in numerous conditions. Treatments involving MSCs can be administered through different methods. Generally, these procedures are carried out by either local injection directly into the affected area or through systemic intravenous infusion.
How do you think MSCs can be a part of the next generation of skin rejuvenation?
— I firmly hold the belief that true beauty originates from within, and I anticipate a greater emphasis on holistic beauty practices in the future. While MSCs show promise in the realm of skin rejuvenation, I’m pleased to observe a shift in beauty trends towards prioritising inner well-being, where MSCs have the potential to become an important tool. With their anti-inflammatory, regenerative, and immunomodulatory properties, they offer the potential for enhancing overall health. Utilising their regenerative capabilities allows us not only to target specific skin concerns but also to address underlying factors, which I believe will be the next generation of beauty.
— It’s also encouraging to witness the growing public interest in stem cells. The Swedish government has already highlighted in its life science strategy the potential for cell therapies to provide cures for conditions that currently lack treatments. Our company aims to advance this science further, aspiring to focus on preventive health rather than reactive measures, and making stem cell therapies available for all.
— We strongly believe in the concept of preventive healthcare and look forward to shifting focus to actively maintaining health before illnesses arise. In our view, the future of healthcare hinges on prioritising prevention rather than solely managing sickness once it occurs, Bernow concludes.
