Whether looking at it from a health perspective or a cosmetic one, ageing has been one of the hottest of topics for research in past decades. The insights that cell biology provides are truly staggering as to both the complexity and the possible future therapies. We are, as a race, increasing our longevity at a remarkable rate – five hours for every 24 hours that we grace this planet. So living longer, living younger is a reality, and this provides particular challenges and great opportunities for life science-based sectors such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
Dr Stephen Minger, Chief Scientist, GE Healthcare, speaking at the recent scientific symposium of the UK Society of Cosmetic Scientists, provided a foray through the field of stem cells. His presentation, entitled ‘Innovating preclinical drug discovery and human cell therapy’, looked at the growing application of the ‘immortal’ pluripotent stem cells (PSCs); derived from embryos, they will continue replicating forever, providing they have the correct environment. While there is some controversy and much moral debate on the use of embryos in research, the rewards for future generations may be staggering, in terms of personalised medicine where disease can be tackled, body parts regrown and – ultimately – all disease prevented.
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