https://bio.nikkeibp.co.jp/atcl/news/p1/24/07/19/12165/
https://reprocell.co.jp/ipsexosome/
Exosomes, ranging in size from 30 to 150 nanometers, are membrane-bound extracellular vesicles (EVs) that are produced in the endosomal compartment of most eukaryotic cells. In multicellular organisms, exosomes and other EVs are found in biological fluids including saliva, blood, urine and cerebrospinal fluid. EVs have specialized functions in physiological processes, from coagulation and waste management to intercellular communication.
ReproCell has announced that it will begin selling their proprietary iPS exosomes, and a major travel agency JTB will promote them. They will also be sold through the Japan Health Development Foundation to medical institutions in Japan and overseas that administer iPS exosomes under the framework of private medical care.
According to ReproCell, iPS exosomes are “concentrated iPS cell culture supernatants that have been purified multiple times to remove components other than exosomes.” The company explains that iPS exosomes are “easier to be taken up by cells than other stem cell exosomes, and have a strong anti-aging effect.”
At this point, this product is not being approved as a drug, it will be administered at medical institutions within the framework of elective medical care.
The company will provide both allogeneic and autologous iPS exosomes. The company will use iPS cells established and produced by the company to produce allogeneic iPS exosomes. The production of autologous iPS exosomes requires the use of “Personal iPS,” the company’s iPS cell production, storage and production service for individuals. As for autologous iPS exosomes, “we set up services based on customer needs,” according to a company representative. The company has not disclosed the cost or how it will be used at medical institutions.
The company is also considering selling iPS exosomes to foreign visitors to Japan through medical institutions, with the aim of expanding inbound medical tourism.