The Next Frontier: Opportunities in Regenerative Medicine
Posted by | July 1, 2010
While there are a wealth of opportunities to deploy capital in a variety of life sciences companies, the evolution and potential long-term impact of regenerative medicine is one of the most intriguing.
In laboratories around the world, scientists are using cells, in many cases living cells, to repair or regenerate human organs or tissues. Potential applications include treating burn victims; regrowing limbs for amputees; and regenerating organs to treat organ and tissue impairment, failure, and loss. We believe in the potential of regenerative medicine and are supporting the efforts of entrepreneurs working to:
- Regenerate native-like bladder tissue for bladder cancer patients requiring a urinary diversion following bladder removal (Tengion).
- Repair damaged human tissue and enable the body to heal itself (Advanced BioHealing).
- Develop cell-based therapies to accelerate healing, repair damaged tissue, reduce inflammation, and ultimately reduce scarring (Garnet BioTherapeutics).
According to the publication Life Science Intelligence, the global market for tissue-regeneration products could be worth more that $118 billion in just three years.
The long-term implications are virtually unlimited. Regenerative medicine has the potential to improve life and ultimately saves the lives of millions of people around the world every year. With the ability to replace damaged organs, or to heal previously life-threatening wounds, the field of regenerative medicine has the potential to revolutionize health care.
