Decidual Stromal cells, DSC

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are adult-derived stem cells similar to adherent fibroblasts with high proliferative capacity. These cells have the ability to repair mesenchymal tissues including bone, cartilage, muscle, tendon, adipose, and stroma, and can also support the differentiation and development of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in the bone marrow’s microenvironment. Currently, the bone marrow is known to be the main source of MSCs; however, the supply of bone marrow is decreasing with less bone marrow transplantions. Also, collecting bone marrow requires the intervention of healthy volunteer donors.

DSCs that are being developed by LucasBio is derived from the decidual membrane of the placenta. Compared to bone-marrow derived MSCs, DSCs have higher proliferation and tend to be smaller in size allowing more production of cells. Also, the placenta is a bio byproduct that can be easily obtained without the intervention of healthy volunteer and theoretically has unlimited supply.