KENILWORTH, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, today announced that the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-604 trial investigating KEYTRUDA, Mercks anti-PD-1 therapy, in combination with chemotherapy met one of its dual primary endpoints of progression-free survival (PFS) in the first-line treatment of patients with extensive stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC). In the study, treatment with KEYTRUDA in combination with chemotherapy (etoposide plus cisplatin or carboplatin) resulted in a statistically significant improvement in PFS compared to chemotherapy alone (HR=0.75 [95% CI, 0.61-0.91]), which was observed at a prior interim analysis. At the final analysis of the study, there was also an improvement in overall survival (OS) for patients treated with KEYTRUDA in combination with chemotherapy compared to chemotherapy alone; however, these OS results did not meet statistical significance per the pre-specified statistical plan (HR=0.80 [95% CI, 0.64-0.98]). The safety profile of KEYTRUDA in this trial was consistent with that observed in previously reported studies. Results will be presented at an upcoming medical meeting and discussed with regulatory authorities.

Results of KEYNOTE-604 demonstrated the potential of KEYTRUDA, in combination with chemotherapy, to improve outcomes for patients newly diagnosed with extensive stage small cell lung cancer, a highly aggressive malignancy, said Dr. Roy Baynes, senior vice president and head of global clinical development, chief medical officer, Merck Research Laboratories. We sincerely thank the patients and investigators for their participation in this study and are committed to helping patients who face difficult-to-treat types of lung cancer.

In addition to KEYTRUDAs five current indications in lung cancer, Merck is continuing to study KEYTRUDA across multiple settings and stages of lung cancer through a broad clinical program, which is comprised of more than 10,000 patients enrolled or expected to be enrolled across 20 Merck-sponsored clinical studies.

About KEYNOTE-604

KEYNOTE-604 is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 3 trial (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03066778) investigating KEYTRUDA in combination with chemotherapy compared to chemotherapy alone in patients with newly diagnosed ES-SCLC. The dual primary endpoints were OS and PFS. Secondary endpoints included objective response rate (ORR), duration of response (DOR), safety and quality of life (QoL). The study enrolled 453 patients who were randomized to receive either:

About Lung Cancer

Lung cancer, which forms in the tissues of the lungs, usually within cells lining the air passages, is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Each year, more people die of lung cancer than die of colon and breast cancers combined. The two main types of lung cancer are non-small cell and small cell. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for about 85% of all cases. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) accounts for about 10 to 15% of all lung cancers. The five-year survival rate for patients diagnosed in the U.S. with any stage of SCLC is estimated to be 6%.

About KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) Injection, 100mg

KEYTRUDA is an anti-PD-1 therapy that works by increasing the ability of the bodys immune system to help detect and fight tumor cells. KEYTRUDA is a humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, thereby activating T lymphocytes which may affect both tumor cells and healthy cells.

Merck has the industrys largest immuno-oncology clinical research program. There are currently more than 1,000 trials studying KEYTRUDA across a wide variety of cancers and treatment settings. The KEYTRUDA clinical program seeks to understand the role of KEYTRUDA across cancers and the factors that may predict a patients likelihood of benefitting from treatment with KEYTRUDA, including exploring several different biomarkers.

Selected KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) Indications

Melanoma

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma.

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the adjuvant treatment of patients with melanoma with involvement of lymph node(s) following complete resection.

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

KEYTRUDA, in combination with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy, is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic nonsquamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations.

KEYTRUDA, in combination with carboplatin and either paclitaxel or paclitaxel protein-bound, is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic squamous NSCLC.

KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with NSCLC expressing PD-L1 [tumor proportion score (TPS) 1%] as determined by an FDA-approved test, with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations, and is stage III where patients are not candidates for surgical resection or definitive chemoradiation, or metastatic.

KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic NSCLC whose tumors express PD-L1 (TPS 1%) as determined by an FDA-approved test, with disease progression on or after platinum-containing chemotherapy. Patients with EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations should have disease progression on FDA-approved therapy for these aberrations prior to receiving KEYTRUDA.

Small Cell Lung Cancer

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic small cell lung cancer (SCLC) with disease progression on or after platinum-based chemotherapy and at least one other prior line of therapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.

Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer

KEYTRUDA, in combination with platinum and fluorouracil (FU), is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic or with unresectable, recurrent head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic or with unresectable, recurrent HNSCC whose tumors express PD-L1 [combined positive score (CPS) 1] as determined by an FDA-approved test.

KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is indicated for the treatment of patients with recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) with disease progression on or after platinum-containing chemotherapy.

Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients with refractory classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL), or who have relapsed after 3 or more prior lines of therapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials.

Primary Mediastinal Large B-Cell Lymphoma

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients with refractory primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma (PMBCL), or who have relapsed after 2 or more prior lines of therapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials. KEYTRUDA is not recommended for treatment of patients with PMBCL who require urgent cytoreductive therapy.

Urothelial Carcinoma

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC) who are not eligible for cisplatin-containing chemotherapy and whose tumors express PD-L1 [combined positive score (CPS) 10] as determined by an FDA-approved test, or in patients who are not eligible for any platinum-containing chemotherapy regardless of PD-L1 status. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and duration of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC) who have disease progression during or following platinum-containing chemotherapy or within 12 months of neoadjuvant or adjuvant treatment with platinum-containing chemotherapy.

Microsatellite Instability-High (MSI-H) Cancer

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients with unresectable or metastatic microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or mismatch repair deficient (dMMR)

This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials. The safety and effectiveness of KEYTRUDA in pediatric patients with MSI-H central nervous system cancers have not been established.

Gastric Cancer

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with recurrent locally advanced or metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma whose tumors express PD-L1 (CPS 1) as determined by an FDA-approved test, with disease progression on or after two or more prior lines of therapy including fluoropyrimidine- and platinum-containing chemotherapy and if appropriate, HER2/neu-targeted therapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials.

Esophageal Cancer

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with recurrent locally advanced or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus whose tumors express PD-L1 (CPS 10) as determined by an FDA-approved test, with disease progression after one or more prior lines of systemic therapy.

Cervical Cancer

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer with disease progression on or after chemotherapy whose tumors express PD-L1 (CPS 1) as determined by an FDA-approved test. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials.

Hepatocellular Carcinoma

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who have been previously treated with sorafenib. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials.

Merkel Cell Carcinoma

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients with recurrent locally advanced or metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials.

Renal Cell Carcinoma

KEYTRUDA, in combination with axitinib, is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

Selected Important Safety Information for KEYTRUDA

Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis

KEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis, including fatal cases. Pneumonitis occurred in 3.4% (94/2799) of patients with various cancers receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 1 (0.8%), 2 (1.3%), 3 (0.9%), 4 (0.3%), and 5 (0.1%). Pneumonitis occurred in 8.2% (65/790) of NSCLC patients receiving KEYTRUDA as a single agent, including Grades 3-4 in 3.2% of patients, and occurred more frequently in patients with a history of prior thoracic radiation (17%) compared to those without (7.7%). Pneumonitis occurred in 6% (18/300) of HNSCC patients receiving KEYTRUDA as a single agent, including Grades 3-5 in 1.6% of patients, and occurred in 5.4% (15/276) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA in combination with platinum and FU as first-line therapy for advanced disease, including Grades 3-5 in 1.5% of patients.

Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of pneumonitis. Evaluate suspected pneumonitis with radiographic imaging. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater pneumonitis. Withhold KEYTRUDA for Grade 2; permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA for Grade 3 or 4 or recurrent Grade 2 pneumonitis.

Immune-Mediated Colitis

KEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated colitis. Colitis occurred in 1.7% (48/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 2 (0.4%), 3 (1.1%), and 4 (<0.1%). Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of colitis. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater colitis. Withhold KEYTRUDA for Grade 2 or 3; permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA for Grade 4 colitis.

Immune-Mediated Hepatitis (KEYTRUDA) and Hepatotoxicity (KEYTRUDA in Combination With Axitinib)

Immune-Mediated Hepatitis

KEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated hepatitis. Hepatitis occurred in 0.7% (19/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 2 (0.1%), 3 (0.4%), and 4 (<0.1%). Monitor patients for changes in liver function. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater hepatitis and, based on severity of liver enzyme elevations, withhold or discontinue KEYTRUDA.

Hepatotoxicity in Combination With Axitinib

KEYTRUDA in combination with axitinib can cause hepatic toxicity with higher than expected frequencies of Grades 3 and 4 ALT and AST elevations compared to KEYTRUDA alone. With the combination of KEYTRUDA and axitinib, Grades 3 and 4 increased ALT (20%) and increased AST (13%) were seen. Monitor liver enzymes before initiation of and periodically throughout treatment. Consider more frequent monitoring of liver enzymes as compared to when the drugs are administered as single agents. For elevated liver enzymes, interrupt KEYTRUDA and axitinib, and consider administering corticosteroids as needed.

Immune-Mediated Endocrinopathies

KEYTRUDA can cause hypophysitis, thyroid disorders, and type 1 diabetes mellitus. Hypophysitis occurred in 0.6% (17/2799) of patients, including Grade 2 (0.2%), 3 (0.3%), and 4 (<0.1%). Hypothyroidism occurred in 8.5% (237/2799) of patients, including Grade 2 (6.2%) and 3 (0.1%). The incidence of new or worsening hypothyroidism was higher in 1185 patients with HNSCC (16%) receiving KEYTRUDA, as a single agent or in combination with platinum and FU, including Grade 3 (0.3%) hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism occurred in 3.4% (96/2799) of patients, including Grade 2 (0.8%) and 3 (0.1%), and thyroiditis occurred in 0.6% (16/2799) of patients, including Grade 2 (0.3%). Type 1 diabetes mellitus, including diabetic ketoacidosis, occurred in 0.2% (6/2799) of patients.

Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of hypophysitis (including hypopituitarism and adrenal insufficiency), thyroid function (prior to and periodically during treatment), and hyperglycemia. For hypophysitis, administer corticosteroids and hormone replacement as clinically indicated. Withhold KEYTRUDA for Grade 2 and withhold or discontinue for Grade 3 or 4 hypophysitis. Administer hormone replacement for hypothyroidism and manage hyperthyroidism with thionamides and beta-blockers as appropriate. Withhold or discontinue KEYTRUDA for Grade 3 or 4 hyperthyroidism. Administer insulin for type 1 diabetes, and withhold KEYTRUDA and administer antihyperglycemics in patients with severe hyperglycemia.

Immune-Mediated Nephritis and Renal Dysfunction

KEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated nephritis. Nephritis occurred in 0.3% (9/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 2 (0.1%), 3 (0.1%), and 4 (<0.1%) nephritis. Nephritis occurred in 1.7% (7/405) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA in combination with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy. Monitor patients for changes in renal function. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater nephritis. Withhold KEYTRUDA for Grade 2; permanently discontinue for Grade 3 or 4 nephritis.

Immune-Mediated Skin Reactions

Immune-mediated rashes, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) (some cases with fatal outcome), exfoliative dermatitis, and bullous pemphigoid, can occur. Monitor patients for suspected severe skin reactions and based on the severity of the adverse reaction, withhold or permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA and administer corticosteroids. For signs or symptoms of SJS or TEN, withhold KEYTRUDA and refer the patient for specialized care for assessment and treatment. If SJS or TEN is confirmed, permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA.

Other Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions

Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue in patients receiving KEYTRUDA and may also occur after discontinuation of treatment. For suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, ensure adequate evaluation to confirm etiology or exclude other causes. Based on the severity of the adverse reaction, withhold KEYTRUDA and administer corticosteroids. Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Based on limited data from clinical studies in patients whose immune-related adverse reactions could not be controlled with corticosteroid use, administration of other systemic immunosuppressants can be considered. Resume KEYTRUDA when the adverse reaction remains at Grade 1 or less following corticosteroid taper. Permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA for any Grade 3 immune-mediated adverse reaction that recurs and for any life-threatening immune-mediated adverse reaction.

The following clinically significant immune-mediated adverse reactions occurred in less than 1% (unless otherwise indicated) of 2799 patients: arthritis (1.5%), uveitis, myositis, Guillain-Barr syndrome, myasthenia gravis, vasculitis, pancreatitis, hemolytic anemia, sarcoidosis, and encephalitis. In addition, myelitis and myocarditis were reported in other clinical trials, including classical Hodgkin lymphoma, and postmarketing use.

Treatment with KEYTRUDA may increase the risk of rejection in solid organ transplant recipients. Consider the benefit of treatment vs the risk of possible organ rejection in these patients.

Infusion-Related Reactions

KEYTRUDA can cause severe or life-threatening infusion-related reactions, including hypersensitivity and anaphylaxis, which have been reported in 0.2% (6/2799) of patients. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infusion-related reactions. For Grade 3 or 4 reactions, stop infusion and permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA.

Complications of Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT)

Immune-mediated complications, including fatal events, occurred in patients who underwent allogeneic HSCT after treatment with KEYTRUDA. Of 23 patients with cHL who proceeded to allogeneic HSCT after KEYTRUDA, 6 (26%) developed graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) (1 fatal case) and 2 (9%) developed severe hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD) after reduced-intensity conditioning (1 fatal case). Cases of fatal hyperacute GVHD after allogeneic HSCT have also been reported in patients with lymphoma who received a PD-1 receptorblocking antibody before transplantation. Follow patients closely for early evidence of transplant-related complications such as hyperacute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), Grade 3 to 4 acute GVHD, steroid-requiring febrile syndrome, hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD), and other immune-mediated adverse reactions.

In patients with a history of allogeneic HSCT, acute GVHD (including fatal GVHD) has been reported after treatment with KEYTRUDA. Patients who experienced GVHD after their transplant procedure may be at increased risk for GVHD after KEYTRUDA. Consider the benefit of KEYTRUDA vs the risk of GVHD in these patients.

Increased Mortality in Patients With Multiple Myeloma

In trials in patients with multiple myeloma, the addition of KEYTRUDA to a thalidomide analogue plus dexamethasone resulted in increased mortality. Treatment of these patients with a PD-1 or PD-L1 blocking antibody in this combination is not recommended outside of controlled trials.

Embryofetal Toxicity

Based on its mechanism of action, KEYTRUDA can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Advise women of this potential risk. In females of reproductive potential, verify pregnancy status prior to initiating KEYTRUDA and advise them to use effective contraception during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose.

Adverse Reactions

In KEYNOTE-006, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 9% of 555 patients with advanced melanoma; adverse reactions leading to permanent discontinuation in more than one patient were colitis (1.4%), autoimmune hepatitis (0.7%), allergic reaction (0.4%), polyneuropathy (0.4%), and cardiac failure (0.4%). The most common adverse reactions (20%) with KEYTRUDA were fatigue (28%), diarrhea (26%), rash (24%), and nausea (21%).

In KEYNOTE-002, KEYTRUDA was permanently discontinued due to adverse reactions in 12% of 357 patients with advanced melanoma; the most common (1%) were general physical health deterioration (1%), asthenia (1%), dyspnea (1%), pneumonitis (1%), and generalized edema (1%). The most common adverse reactions were fatigue (43%), pruritus (28%), rash (24%), constipation (22%), nausea (22%), diarrhea (20%), and decreased appetite (20%).

In KEYNOTE-054, KEYTRUDA was permanently discontinued due to adverse reactions in 14% of 509 patients; the most common (1%) were pneumonitis (1.4%), colitis (1.2%), and diarrhea (1%). Serious adverse reactions occurred in 25% of patients receiving KEYTRUDA. The most common adverse reaction (20%) with KEYTRUDA was diarrhea (28%).

In KEYNOTE-189, when KEYTRUDA was administered with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy in metastatic nonsquamous NSCLC, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 20% of 405 patients. The most common adverse reactions resulting in permanent discontinuation of KEYTRUDA were pneumonitis (3%) and acute kidney injury (2%). The most common adverse reactions (20%) with KEYTRUDA were nausea (56%), fatigue (56%), constipation (35%), diarrhea (31%), decreased appetite (28%), rash (25%), vomiting (24%), cough (21%), dyspnea (21%), and pyrexia (20%).

In KEYNOTE-407, when KEYTRUDA was administered with carboplatin and either paclitaxel or paclitaxel protein-bound in metastatic squamous NSCLC, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 15% of 101 patients. The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in at least 2% of patients were febrile neutropenia, pneumonia, and urinary tract infection. Adverse reactions observed in KEYNOTE-407 were similar to those observed in KEYNOTE-189 with the exception that increased incidences of alopecia (47% vs 36%) and peripheral neuropathy (31% vs 25%) were observed in the KEYTRUDA and chemotherapy arm compared to the placebo and chemotherapy arm in KEYNOTE-407.

In KEYNOTE-042, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 19% of 636 patients; the most common were pneumonitis (3%), death due to unknown cause (1.6%), and pneumonia (1.4%). The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in at least 2% of patients were pneumonia (7%), pneumonitis (3.9%), pulmonary embolism (2.4%), and pleural effusion (2.2%). The most common adverse reaction (20%) was fatigue (25%).

In KEYNOTE-010, KEYTRUDA monotherapy was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 8% of 682 patients with metastatic NSCLC; the most common was pneumonitis (1.8%). The most common adverse reactions (20%) were decreased appetite (25%), fatigue (25%), dyspnea (23%), and nausea (20%).

Adverse reactions occurring in patients with SCLC were similar to those occurring in patients with other solid tumors who received KEYTRUDA as a single agent.

In KEYNOTE-048, KEYTRUDA monotherapy was discontinued due to adverse events in 12% of 300 patients with HNSCC; the most common adverse reactions leading to permanent discontinuation were sepsis (1.7%) and pneumonia (1.3%). The most common adverse reactions (20%) were fatigue (33%), constipation (20%), and rash (20%).

In KEYNOTE-048, when KEYTRUDA was administered in combination with platinum (cisplatin or carboplatin) and FU chemotherapy, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 16% of 276 patients with HNSCC. The most common adverse reactions resulting in permanent discontinuation of KEYTRUDA were pneumonia (2.5%), pneumonitis (1.8%), and septic shock (1.4%). The most common adverse reactions (20%) were nausea (51%), fatigue (49%), constipation (37%), vomiting (32%), mucosal inflammation (31%), diarrhea (29%), decreased appetite (29%), stomatitis (26%), and cough (22%).

In KEYNOTE-012, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 17% of 192 patients with HNSCC. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 45% of patients. The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in at least 2% of patients were pneumonia, dyspnea, confusional state, vomiting, pleural effusion, and respiratory failure. The most common adverse reactions (20%) were fatigue, decreased appetite, and dyspnea. Adverse reactions occurring in patients with HNSCC were generally similar to those occurring in patients with melanoma or NSCLC who received KEYTRUDA as a monotherapy, with the exception of increased incidences of facial edema and new or worsening hypothyroidism.

In KEYNOTE-087, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 5% of 210 patients with cHL. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 16% of patients; those 1% included pneumonia, pneumonitis, pyrexia, dyspnea, GVHD, and herpes zoster. Two patients died from causes other than disease progression; 1 from GVHD after subsequent allogeneic HSCT and 1 from septic shock. The most common adverse reactions (20%) were fatigue (26%), pyrexia (24%), cough (24%), musculoskeletal pain (21%), diarrhea (20%), and rash (20%).

In KEYNOTE-170, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 8% of 53 patients with PMBCL. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 26% of patients and included arrhythmia (4%), cardiac tamponade (2%), myocardial infarction (2%), pericardial effusion (2%), and pericarditis (2%). Six (11%) patients died within 30 days of start of treatment. The most common adverse reactions (20%) were musculoskeletal pain (30%), upper respiratory tract infection and pyrexia (28% each), cough (26%), fatigue (23%), and dyspnea (21%).

In KEYNOTE-052, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 11% of 370 patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 42% of patients; those 2% were urinary tract infection, hematuria, acute kidney injury, pneumonia, and urosepsis. The most common adverse reactions (20%) were fatigue (38%), musculoskeletal pain (24%), decreased appetite (22%), constipation (21%), rash (21%), and diarrhea (20%).

In KEYNOTE-045, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 8% of 266 patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma. The most common adverse reaction resulting in permanent discontinuation of KEYTRUDA was pneumonitis (1.9%). Serious adverse reactions occurred in 39% of KEYTRUDA-treated patients; those 2% were urinary tract infection, pneumonia, anemia, and pneumonitis. The most common adverse reactions (20%) in patients who received KEYTRUDA were fatigue (38%), musculoskeletal pain (32%), pruritus (23%), decreased appetite (21%), nausea (21%), and rash (20%).

Adverse reactions occurring in patients with gastric cancer were similar to those occurring in patients with melanoma or NSCLC who received KEYTRUDA as a monotherapy.

Adverse reactions occurring in patients with esophageal cancer were similar to those occurring in patients with melanoma or NSCLC who received KEYTRUDA as a monotherapy.

In KEYNOTE-158, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 8% of 98 patients with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 39% of patients receiving KEYTRUDA; the most frequent included anemia (7%), fistula, hemorrhage, and infections [except urinary tract infections] (4.1% each). The most common adverse reactions (20%) were fatigue (43%), musculoskeletal pain (27%), diarrhea (23%), pain and abdominal pain (22% each), and decreased appetite (21%).

Adverse reactions occurring in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were generally similar to those in patients with melanoma or NSCLC who received KEYTRUDA as a monotherapy, with the exception of increased incidences of ascites (8% Grades 34) and immune-mediated hepatitis (2.9%). Laboratory abnormalities (Grades 34) that occurred at a higher incidence were elevated AST (20%), ALT (9%), and hyperbilirubinemia (10%).

Among the 50 patients with MCC enrolled in study KEYNOTE-017, adverse reactions occurring in patients with MCC were generally similar to those occurring in patients with melanoma or NSCLC who received KEYTRUDA as a monotherapy. Laboratory abnormalities (Grades 34) that occurred at a higher incidence were elevated AST (11%) and hyperglycemia (19%).

In KEYNOTE-426, when KEYTRUDA was administered in combination with axitinib, fatal adverse reactions occurred in 3.3% of 429 patients. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 40% of patients, the most frequent (1%) were hepatotoxicity (7%), diarrhea (4.2%), acute kidney injury (2.3%), dehydration (1%), and pneumonitis (1%). Permanent discontinuation due to an adverse reaction occurred in 31% of patients; KEYTRUDA only (13%), axitinib only (13%), and the combination (8%); the most common were hepatotoxicity (13%), diarrhea/colitis (1.9%), acute kidney injury (1.6%), and cerebrovascular accident (1.2%). The most common adverse reactions (20%) were diarrhea (56%), fatigue/asthenia (52%), hypertension (48%), hepatotoxicity (39%), hypothyroidism (35%), decreased appetite (30%), palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (28%), nausea (28%), stomatitis/mucosal inflammation (27%), dysphonia (25%), rash (25%), cough (21%), and constipation (21%).

Continue reading here:
Merck's KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) in Combination with Chemotherapy Significantly Improved Progression-Free Survival Compared to Chemotherapy Alone as...

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on Merck’s KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) in Combination with Chemotherapy Significantly Improved Progression-Free Survival Compared to Chemotherapy Alone as… | January 7th, 2020

The latest lifestyle, fashion and travel trends

A high-end bio-beauty boom is in full bloom thanks to a host of revolutionary brands set on changing the face of modern skincare. These are the five to know...

Hailing from the Napa Valley, where founder April Gargiulo spent two years researching and developing her Holy Grail skincare products using the same meticulous approach her family took to their fine wine business, Vintners Daughter champions just two products that promise dramatic, multi-correctional results using some of the worlds most active organic and foraged botanicals. The original Active Botanical Serum (175) is hailed as the face oils to end all face oils and is built around the brands signature Phyto Radiance Infusion. This process starts with consciously grown whole plants such as calendula and super green alfalfa, known in ancient times as the foods of life, which undergo a methodical three-week long extraction to glean every last drop of their nutritional benefits. Just five drops using the brands 30-second Push/Press Method of application promises to deliver visible radiance, brightness and unparalleled nourishment particularly when used in conjunction with its preparatory Active Treatment Essence (210) (goop.com).

The undisputed Queen of Green, Tata Harper is a pioneer of the farm-to-face beauty movement with all-natural formulations handcrafted in the brands laboratory in Vermont and bottles stamped with a code to trace how fresh your product is and who it was made by. The beauty editors favourite is going one step further with the launch of its Supernaturals 2.0 line of six products boasting 155 ultramodern green ingredients from 46 countries and of course, no synthetic chemicals. The Elixir Vitae Serum (391) alone boasts 34 new radical engineered ingredients from 25 countries, including kelp polymers from France developed to target cellular ageing. Other highlights from the range include the Concentrated Brightening Serum (257), which contains 24 ingredients to hydrate, 17 to reduce wrinkles, 15 to brighten and 13 to even skin tone, and the Boosted Contouring Serum (257), designed to lift, firm and restore youthful elasticity with a combination of Edelweiss stem cells and skin revitalising pomegranate. (tataharperskincare.com)

The brainchild of cosmetologist Anna Buonocore and naturalist Jeanette Thottrup, Seed To Skin believes that effective skincare is threefold. Firstly, that wild ingredients foraged from the land and sea used in conjunction with those sourced from its organic Tuscan farm are among the most potent nature has to offer. Secondly, that just like feeding your body skin requires a healthy, balanced diet and formulas that neither starve nor overload with any one element. Finally, that the most effective absorption relies on a precise mix of perfectly-sized molecules to ensure each ingredient is delivered exactly where it needs to go. As a result, its award-winning product line is loaded with game changers try The AlcheMist Super Active Serum Spray (145) to feed your skin a nutrient-rich drink whenever it needs a boost, or the Black Magic Detoxifying Oxygen Therapy Mask (119) which contains activated charcoal and volcanic clay for a one-stop facial in a jar (libertylondon.com).

(Wildsmith )

Inspired by the arboretums progressive approach to cultivation at Hampshires Heckfield Place and named after its mastermind William Walker Wildsmith, this ethical crafted-in-England skincare brand is designed for those who desire natural products but demand clinical results. Exclusive to Harrods beauty halls, the hero additions to its product line-up include the Platinum Booster (175) a powerful skin-firming treatment powered by encapsulated oxygen and moss cell cultures and a reviving, collagen-boosting Copper Peptide Cream and Serum Duo (150) which delivers a luminous finish to your complexion and comes in a compostable mycelium box (wildsmithskin.com; harrods.com).

After turning to flower arranging as a weekly dose of mindfulness, beauty entrepreneur Kelly S Chung endeavoured to harness the healing power of nature or Flower Therapy, as she has coined it in another form; and Femmue was born. Fusing K-beauty innovation with a clean beauty ethos and the cellular energy of plants, the camellia flower is at the heart of the range and renowned for its antioxidant and restorative qualities. The Divine Camlia Facial Oil (100) is the purest form with 99.8 per cent camellia seed oil, while other must-try products in the line include the bestselling Flower Infused Fine Mask (40) formulated with camellia petals, geranium oil and cactus extract and the lavender-loaded Brilliant Cleansing Oil (73) (net-a-porter.com).

Continue reading here:
Super Naturals: the high-tech natural beauty brands changing the face of modern skincare - Evening Standard

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on Super Naturals: the high-tech natural beauty brands changing the face of modern skincare – Evening Standard | January 6th, 2020

In high school Aaron Sandoval became obsessed with Deadpool, Marvels comic character who has accelerated healing and regenerative powers.

Sandoval has turned in his superhero cape for a lab coat in medicine by working with reparative methods for the human body. And now, hes received a national award that will allow him to do that.

Sandoval, a 21-year-old UF biology senior, was selected for the Marshall Scholarship, which gives students in the U.S. a chance to pursue their graduate studies in the United Kingdom, all expenses paid. He is the second Marshall scholar in UFs history, following Steven Robinette in 2009.

Sandoval was one of 46 students chosen out of over 1,000 applicants across the U.S.

The Marshall Scholarship Program was created in 1953 to thank the U.S. for helping the U.K. after World War II under the Marshall Plan, which was the U.S.s way of helping European economies after the devastation of the war, according to the programs website.

It still hasnt really sunk in yet, Sandoval said. Im happy to have won it.

Sandoval said in his two years at the University of Cambridge and Kings College London hell study biochemistry and focus on the transfer of stem cells from the lab to the patients so they can understand what cells are being used to help them.

Sandoval has collaborated with UF faculty members like Malcolm Maden, a professor in UFs Cancer and Genetics Research Institute. Sandoval and Maden worked in a lab with an African spiny mouse, to figure out how stem cells repair parts of the human body like skin tissue.

In 2012, Maden and his research team discovered the African spiny mouses ability to regenerate skin scar free. Maden wrote one of Sandovals letters of recommendation for his application for the scholarship.

Sandoval said if the mouses regeneration of skin cells could be translated to humans, then a humans wounds could completely heal rather than scar.

Sandoval didnt have the opportunity to do research in high school and wanted to learn more at the university level, so he decided to take Madens lab.

Maden said Sandovals uniqueness stems from his intelligence, drive and ability to interact with different kinds of people.

Hes behaved like a dynamic scientist, not like an undergrad, he said. Completely amazing, totally unique guy.

Sandoval said he feels fortunate to have won the award and to have so many people who helped him get to this point.

I couldnt have done it without the support of family, friends, mentors, he said. It took a whole village to win this thing.

Contact Emma McAvoy at[emailprotected]. Follow her on Twitter@EmmaMcAvoy1.

Read the original post:
UF student chosen for the Marshall Scholarship, will pursue Masters degrees in United Kingdom - The Independent Florida Alligator

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on UF student chosen for the Marshall Scholarship, will pursue Masters degrees in United Kingdom – The Independent Florida Alligator | January 6th, 2020

Technavio has been monitoring the global amniotic membrane market since 2019 and the market is poised to grow by USD 1.48 billion during 2020-2024, progressing at a CAGR of more than 13% during the forecast period. Request a free sample report

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200106005080/en/

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled global amniotic membrane market 2020-2024 (Graphic: Business Wire)

Read the 145-page report with TOC on "Amniotic Membrane Market Analysis Report by Geography (Asia, Europe, North America, and ROW), Type (Cryopreserved amniotic membrane and Dehydrated amniotic membrane), and the Segment Forecasts, 2020-2024".

https://www.technavio.com/report/amniotic-membrane-market-industry-analysis

The market is driven by the rising demand for biocompatible scaffolds. In addition, the rise in the development of new applications through research is anticipated to boost the growth of the amniotic membrane market.

The rising need for naturally derived materials in tissue scaffolding is increasing the demand for amniotic membranes. This is due to the specialized structure of amniotic membranes that exhibit high biological viability, making them ideal for creating bio-scaffolds. Moreover, the epithelial cells in amniotic membranes have the advantages of stem cells which provide a native environment of cell seeding. Bio-scaffolds are widely used in regenerative therapies for the treatment of bone, cartilage, skin, vascular tissues, and skeletal muscles. With growing geriatric population, the demand for such orthopaedic regenerative therapies is expected to increase significantly during the forecast period. This will have a positive impact on the demand for amniotic membranes.

Buy 1 Technavio report and get the second for 50% off. Buy 2 Technavio reports and get the third for free.

View market snapshot before purchasing

Major Five Amniotic Membrane Market Companies:

Celularity Inc.

Celularity Inc. operates its business through the Unified Business Segment. BIOVANCE is the key offering of the company. It offers a decellularized, dehydrated human amniotic membrane allograft that contains natural extracellular matrix (ECM) that helps in wound regeneration and tissue restoration.

Human Regenerative Technologies LLC

Human Regenerative Technologies LLC operates the business across segments such as Flowable and Membrane. HydraTek amniotic membrane products, is the key offering of the company. It includes thin and thick dehydrated amniotic membranes used in covering and protecting the recipient's tissue.

Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corp.

Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corp. operates its business across segments such as Codman Specialty Surgical, and Orthopedics and Tissue Technologies. The company offers a wide range of amniotic membrane products. Some of the key offerings include AmnioExcel Amniotic Allograft Membrane, BioDDryFlex Amniotic Tissue Membrane, BioDOptix Amniotic Extracellular Membrane, and Integra BioFix Amniotic Membrane Allograft.

Katena Products Inc.

Katena Products Inc. operates the business across segments such as Instruments, Biologics, Plugs, Lenses, Devices, and Blink Medical. Amniotic Membrane Surgical and Amniotic Membrane Clinic are some of the key offerings of the company.

Story continues

MiMedx Group Inc.

MiMedx Group Inc. operates the business in the Regenerative biomaterial products and bioimplants segment. The company offers a wide range of amniotic membrane products. AmnioFix, EpiFix, and EpiBurn are the key offerings of the company.

Register for a free trial today and gain instant access to 17,000+ market research reports.

Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform

Amniotic Membrane Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2020 - 2024)

Amniotic Membrane Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2020 - 2024)

Technavios sample reports are free of charge and contain multiple sections of the report, such as the market size and forecast, drivers, challenges, trends, and more. Request a free sample report

Related Reports on Healthcare include:

Global Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Machines Market Global extracorporeal membrane oxygenation machines market by geography (Asia, Europe, North America, and ROW) and modality (veno-venous and arterio-venous; and veno-arterial).

Global Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) Therapeutics Market Global Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) therapeutics market by type (biologics and small molecules) and geography (Asia, Europe, North America, and ROW).

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions.

With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavios report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavios comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

If you are interested in more information, please contact our media team at media@technavio.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200106005080/en/

Contacts

Technavio ResearchJesse MaidaMedia & Marketing ExecutiveUS: +1 844 364 1100UK: +44 203 893 3200www.technavio.com Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter

See the article here:
Global Amniotic Membrane Market 2020-2024 | Evolving Opportunities with Celularity Inc. and Human Regenerative Technologies LLC | Technavio - Yahoo...

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on Global Amniotic Membrane Market 2020-2024 | Evolving Opportunities with Celularity Inc. and Human Regenerative Technologies LLC | Technavio – Yahoo… | January 6th, 2020

3 January 2020

Victoria Beckham aims to "create a brand of the future" with Victoria Beckham Beauty.

Victoria Beckham

The former Spice Girl launched her eponymous beauty brand last year, later expanding her label to include skincare, and the 45-year-old fashion designer says her intention was to create products that are sustainable and not made from toxic formulas, whilst being "inclusive" for all skin tones.

The mother-of-four told the February issue of Harper's Bazaar UK: "I've been obsessed with make-up and skincare and wellness for longer than I can remember.

"But I couldn't find what I wanted - clean beauty.

"What is that, even? It's a real grey area.

"I wanted to create a brand of the future - focusing on what's in the formulas but then also sustainability.

"The other thing that was key was making sure it was very inclusive - whether it's make-up or skincare, this is for every skin type and tone, and for both women and men."

In November, Victoria - who has Brooklyn, 20, Romeo, 17, Cruz, 14 and Harper, eight, with retired soccer star husband David Beckham - released her Cell Rejuvenating Priming Moisturiser in collaboration with Professor Augustinus Bader, the German stem-cell scientist behind The Cream, which was named as one of 2019's most popular skincare products.

Bader's product features a patented Trigger Factor Complex that works to jumpstart your skin's repair and renewal functions to heal skin faster and in turn, improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and as a fan of the cream herself, Victoria was thrilled to work with the scientist.

She said: "It's been a dream to develop, with Augustinus, a priming moisturiser that works to improve the health of my skin and gives me that fresh, natural glow that I love."

The priming moisturiser is a hybrid product that combines primer with moisturiser, and is inspired by Victoria's own skincare routine.

Victoria's product implements Bader's Trigger Factor Complex technology, as well as the lipids, vitamins, and amino acids found in his original cream, but with the added benefit of also smoothing skin so it's prepped for make-up application.

Bader explained: "It's the first priming moisturiser of its kind to care for your skin cells while also preparing your skin for makeup application."

The cream has a lightweight texture that can be work alone to give skin a radiant finish or under make-up, which according to Victoria, "will enhance your products."

Read this article:
Victoria Beckham wants her beauty line to be 'brand of the future' - FemaleFirst.co.uk

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on Victoria Beckham wants her beauty line to be ‘brand of the future’ – FemaleFirst.co.uk | January 5th, 2020

Being jam-packed with various essential nutrients like folate, Vitamin A, beta carotene, etc., carrot and ginger can offer you both health and beauty benefits. These kitchen companions can help diabetics to control their blood sugar level and have many more medicinal uses. These vegetables are known to treat ailments like cough and cold, nausea, anxiety, etc. From strengthening your immune system to protecting your against cancer and boosting collagen production, carrot ginger juice can do it all for you. Below, we give you more than one reason to add this juice to your daily diet.

Being a rich source of vitamin A, carrot ginger juice helps in strengthening your immune response. This nutrient is required to form white blood cells in the bone marrow stem cells. Notably, WBC is a significant component of your bodys defence system. So, it is advised to drink this juice on a daily basis. You can add oranges in the juice to make it a bit tasty.

For a healthy skin texture and tone, vitamin C and E are needed. Carrot ginger juice is a rich source of both nutrients. Your skin requires collagen for better elasticity, texture, and strength. Vitamin C helps in the synthesis of this protein and holds the body together. Even if you have a skin wound, you can have this drink and get rid of the problem soon. On the other hand, vitamin E protects your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays.

Carrot ginger juice is a detox drink that is jam-packed with vitamin C, a nutrient that is already linked to providing protection against cancer. The juice contains a compound called gingerol, that can potentially reduce your risk of developing breast, ovarian, and stomach cancers. This is what research published in the European Journal of Pharmacology reveals.

Originally posted here:
Want to Rev up Your Immunity And Improve Skin Health? Consume Carrot Ginger Juice - India.com

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on Want to Rev up Your Immunity And Improve Skin Health? Consume Carrot Ginger Juice – India.com | January 5th, 2020

Its not easy to choose the right skin creams! There are so many new products on the market, beckoning us to buy them. With fancy campaigns and big budgets, who knows which ones are the best?

While we like to think we actually getbetterwith age, we totally understand that there might be some pesky skin changes you want to address as the years pass. Its difficult to pinpoint exactlywhen to startincorporating anti-aging products into your routine, so we chatted with one of our favorite celebrity experts, Nicole Baca, who createdOverdoseto get the scoop on the best approach to wrinkle creams.

Not only is Baca an award-winning leading independent skincare specialist in the U.S, who produced the top-selling product Overdose,but she is also a well-known advisor and specialist in elite Hollywood circles, and in todays current market, that means everything!

While different age groups require different routines, the best anti-aging product issunblock, which Baca recommends be applied to the face daily as young as possible! In individuals with dry skin,a daily moisturizer,serum, andeye creamshould be started in the early 20s, says Baca.

If the individual has oily skin, traditional anti-aging products can start in their 30s, but most likely they will be using aretinol product to combat acne breakouts, so they are already using preventative measures.

When comparing products, opt for ones with retinol,hyaluronic acid,plant-based stem cells,resveratrol, andglycolic acid. Exfoliation is essential! Baca says.

Armed with that info, we set out to research and find the right anti-aging creams that fight wrinkles. Our list (of course) includes J.Nicoles Overdose.

Ready to find the best wrinkle cream for you? Read on to learn more about our top picks.

Body Merry Retinol Surge Moisturizer $22.98 SHOP NOW

Wildly Popular Aretinol creamcanmakeyourskin appear more youthfulover time, and this is our favorite one at a budget-friendly price. Wed expect to pay more for resultsthislegit, but this steal fromBody Merry truly works to improve aging skin.

TheRetinol Surge Moisturizer addresses wrinkles and uneven skin tone, providing the kind of results youd expect from a professional product.

ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Marine Cream $120.47-$96.00 (20% off) SHOP NOW

Feels Amazing This silky, moisturizing cream not only feels amazing on your skin, but it contains a mix of powerful ingredients like Mediterranean algae, gingko biloba, chlorella, mimosa, and rose that work to visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles in just 14 days. Fewer linesandplump skin? Yes, please!

OVERDOSE Bio-Hybrid Technology $95.00 SHOP NOW

Skin Care Essentials J.Nicole uses patent-pending formula to combine seven separate skin care products into one easy to use formula. Their unique serum utilizes the high oleic acid found within specially-bred hybrid sunflowers, delivering a super-saturated boost of skin care essentials deep into your skin without any irritation. Simply apply once a day after cleansing for instantly clearer, brighter, and youthful skin.

Rodial Dragons Blood Hyaluronic Night Cream $72.00-$58.50 (19% off) SHOP NOW

Potent Ingredients Rodials Dragons Blood Hyaluronic Night Cream offers potent ingredients in a light, buttery cream that smells divine. This anti-aging cream contains time-released retinol, penetrating deep into the skin as you sleep to help reduce lines and wrinkles. It also contains hyaluronic acid to pump long-lasting hydration into the deepest layers of the skin.

Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream $20.03 SHOP NOW

Fast-Acting Formula Give this anti-wrinkle cream by Olay a spin for line-free skin. The fast-action formula starts reducing wrinkles instantly with a blend of hyaluronic acid, vitamin B, and amino-peptides, so if youre in a rush to reduce age marks on a budget, Olay has found the way.

RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Anti-Aging Retinol Night Cream $16.79 SHOP NOW

Works While You Sleep Theres hardly a list of wrinkle creams without mention of RoCs Retinol Correxion products. Our favorite drugstore buy, this night cream uses a retinol-packed formula to improve skin while you sleep! Youll see a reduction incrows feet, under-eye wrinkles, and deep lines with 12 weeks of use.

Derma-E Anti-Wrinkle Renewal Skin Cream $11.96SHOP NOW

Vegan and Cruelty-Free Experience anti-aging benefits around the clock with this cream from Derma-E that can be used day or night. A rich mix of vitamin A (aka retinol), vitamin E, allantoin, panthenol, and nourishing oils works together to soften skin and reduce the look of wrinkles.

Neutrogena Anti-Wrinkle Deep Wrinkle Daily Moisturizer$21.99-$13.47 (39% off) SHOP NOW

Contains Sunscreen When using a retinol, you shouldalwaysbe usingan SPF, too. (Which, TBH, you should be wearing anyway.) This daily moisturizer from Neutrogena containsboth!

Its also formulated withhyaluronic acid,which plumps up skinand helps it retain moisture.

The Inkey List Bakuchiol Moisturizer $9.99 SHOP NOW

Retinol Alternative If you havent yet heard of Bakuchiol, youll want to try this buzzy skincareingredient ASAP! Itsthe gentler, plant-derived alternative to retinol, and provides similar anti-aging effects without any of the irritation or sensitivity to the sun.

Plus, unlike regular retinol,its a safe pick for pregnant or breastfeeding moms, too.You cant beat the value ofThe Inkey Lists under-$10version.

Skinmedica Dermal Repair Cream $103.20 SHOP NOW

Skincare Staple A staple from one of Vielbigs recommended brands, this all-encompassing hydrating treatment deserves a spot in your skincare regimen ASAP. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and other wrinkle-fighting ingredients, this cream effectively penetrates the skin to turn back the clock and provide you witha more youthful appearance.

SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter Mature Skin Treatment $157.75 SHOP NOW

A Best-Seller This best-selling anti-aging cream from SkinCeuticals slows the loss of elasticity in your skin and keeps your collagen levels up. Formulated with 30% concentration of Pro-Xylane, 4% blueberry extract, and 0.2% phytosphingosine, this anti-wrinkle treatment helps restore the loss of visible skin firmness.

Obagi Hydrate Luxe $74.00 SHOP NOW

Expert-Approved A favorite brand recommended byour skincare expert, this moisture-rich cream from Dr. Obagi is life-changing. It features nourishing shea butter, along with peptides designed to capture moisture andsupport cell-repair processes.

Dr. Dennis Gross C+ Collagen Deep Cream $72.00 SHOP NOW

Deeply-Penetrating When it comes to youthful-looking skin, collagen is one of your besties. Implement Dr. Dennis Grosss deeply penetrating cream into your skin care routine to postpone age spots and wrinkles.

The potent, vitamin C-infused formula also features sunflower, rice bran, and camellia japonica seed oils that work to increase moisture retention.

DHC CoQ10 Quick Gel Brightening Moisture $61.26 SHOP NOW

Absorbs Quickly How did we live without this anti-aging wonder cream from DHC? Bursting with age-defying coenzyme Q10, this antioxidant-rich gel cream absorbs quickly to deliver potent ingredients in a flash. It promotes elasticity while vitamin C and daisy extract help brighten for a more luminous complexion.

This cream tones, brightens, and moisturizes in one step, making itperfect to wear with or without makeup.

IMAGE Skincare Ageless Total Overnight Retinol Masque $72.00$-60.39 (16% off) SHOP NOW

Retinol-Infused Goodness We love using this retinol-infused goodness from IMAGE Skincare as a night cream around threetimes per week. Simply slather it on before bed, and itll continuously release marine collagen microspheres and retinol into the skin to lock in moisture while you sleep. Youll wake up looking fresh and young!

Dr. Barbara Sturm Anti-Aging Body Cream $95.00 SHOP NOW

For Your Whole Body While we know your facial anti-aging cream is top of mind, dont forget about the rest of your skin! We live for Dr. Barbara Sturms Anti-Aging Body Cream. Its on the pricier side, but the serious results make it worth the splurge.

It contains a slew of nourishing ingredients, including olive oil, lactic acid, vitamin C, and vitamin B-5, to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on your body.

Follow this link:
We asked beauty expert Nicole Baca for advice on the best skincare treatments on the market - Globe Stats

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on We asked beauty expert Nicole Baca for advice on the best skincare treatments on the market – Globe Stats | January 5th, 2020

The reconstitution of the blood system in humans holds great therapeutic potential to treat many disorders, like blood cancers, sickle-cell anemia and others. Successful reconstitution requires the transplantation and engraftment of hematopoietic (or blood) stem cells (HSCs), which after reaching their niche, start producing all types of blood cells, including platelets, white and red blood cells.

In current clinical practice, this is carried out by infusing HSCs obtained from a matched donor who is immunologically compatible with the patient in need (allogeneic transplantation), or by the expansion of the patients own HSCs in the lab, and then re-infusing them back into the patient (ex-vivo, autologous transplantation).

However, the utility of both routes is currently limited by a number of factors. First, in the case of allogeneic transplantation, the scarcity of matched donors significantly increases the waiting time, which could be detrimental to the patient. Second, the ex vivo expansion of HSCs, whether allogeneic or autologous, has been a challenging task, due to the limited proliferative potential these cells exhibit in culture. These limitations have raised the need for other sources of HSCs that would alleviate the need for matched donors and yield functional HSCs in large quantities.

In 2007, Professor Shinya Yamanaka and colleagues demonstrated that somatic cells, like skin fibroblasts, could be reprogrammed back to a cellular state that resembled human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), which are a group of cells found in the blastocyst-stage human embryo and contribute solely to the development of the human fetus during pregnancy. The reprogrammed cells were termed, Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs).

In addition to their developmental potential, human ESCs and iPS cells display unlimited proliferative potential in culture, which makes them an ideal source of cells for regenerative medicine in general and for hematopoietic differentiation to obtain possibly unlimited quantities of HSCs. Therefore, there has been a growing interest to harness the potential of these cells for treating blood disorders.

However, advancement in deriving functional HSCs from human pluripotent stem cells has been slow. This has been attributed to incomplete understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying normal hematopoiesis. In this review, the authors discuss the latest efforts to generate HSCs capable of long-term engraftment and reconstitution of the blood system from human pluripotent stem cells. Stem cell research has witnessed milestone achievements in this area in the last couple of years, the significance of which are discussed and analyzed in detail.

The authors additionally discuss two highly important families of transcription factors in the context of hematopoiesis and hematopoietic differentiation, the Homeobox (HOX) and GATA proteins. These are thought of as master regulators, in the sense of having numerous transcriptional targets, which upon activation, could elicit significant changes in cell identity. The authors hypothesize that precise temporal control of the levels of certain members of these families during hematopoietic differentiation could yield functional HSCs capable of long-term engraftment.

The authors conclude the review with a summary of future perspectives, in which they discuss how newly developed techniques, like the deactivated-Cas9 (dCas9) gene-expression control system, can be utilized during the course of hematopoietic differentiation of pluripotent stem cells for precise temporal control of the aforementioned master regulators to achieve functional HSCs.

Please Donate Today Did you enjoy this article? Then please consider donating today to ensure that Eurasia Review can continue to be able to provide similar content.

Read the original here:
Making Blood On Demand: How Far Have We Come? - Eurasia Review

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on Making Blood On Demand: How Far Have We Come? – Eurasia Review | January 5th, 2020

If your new year's resolutions includeorganizingthe skincare products taking over your medicine cabinet, checking the expiration dates on your makeup, and tossing those almostempty shampoo and conditioner bottles that have been taking up space in your shower since 2018, I've got some bad news for you:You're probably going to hit pause on reassessing your beauty routineuntil February.Thanks to January'snew beauty product launches, your collection is definitelygoing to grow this month.

Tatcha'sinnovative, travel-friendly serum stick will be the one skincare product you pack for every trip you take, while OLEHENRIKSEN'scleanseris like a refreshing fruit juice for your face. As for makeup, IT Cosmetics has created an uber-comfortable matte lipstick, and Hourglass' concealer is a long-wear formula that doesnotcrease.

Get exclusive discounts, celeb inspo, & more.

RELATED:All the Products Our Beauty Editors Loved Using in December

When it comes to haircare, the drugstore is the place to be. Celebrity hairstylist Kristin Ess has added fragrance-free products to her affordable namesake haircare line, and Pantenejust expanded its Gold Series Collection for natural hair with a hydrating, protective cream specifically formulated for braided styles.

While thesenew haircare, skincare, and makeup products are exciting, there's no question that having so many options can be overwhelming. That's why we've done the work topickout the top 20 worth spending your hard-earned coin on.

VIDEO:What Every Beginner Needs to Have in Their Makeup Kit

Read more from the original source:
The 20 Best New Beauty Products That'll Help You Kick 2020 Off Right - InStyle

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on The 20 Best New Beauty Products That’ll Help You Kick 2020 Off Right – InStyle | January 4th, 2020

Fertility expert Marcelle Cedars discusses the future of reproductive medicine.

By Ariel Bleicher UCSF Magazine

Advances in medicine and public health have dramatically extended the human lifespan. Our hearts, lungs, and other vital organs now last 79 years on average. For women, however, the ovaries which stop functioning at an average 51 years remain a stubborn exception. That may soon change, says fertility expert Marcelle Cedars, MD, during a conversation on the future of reproductive medicine.

There are two aspects. One is qualitative. As a woman ages, the quality of her eggs meaning their capacity to make a healthy baby declines. We understand very little about what causes this decline. If we understood that process better, we could dramatically impact fertility success rates.

The other aspect is quantitative. Women are born with a finite number of eggs, and they lose those eggs throughout their lifetime. In fact, that rapid decline in egg numbers starts even before birth. Theres a peak in utero of five to six million eggs. At birth, a woman has only about 1.5 million eggs; at the time of puberty, about 500,000. Through genetics research, were learning that the rate of this decline and the variability from woman to woman is largely driven by ones genes.

Exactly. But what if we could use your genetics and other biological data to understand your unique fertility risks and develop therapies specifically for you or for groups of women like you? This approach is called precision medicine. It has made a huge impact in the world of cancer in terms of improving survival rates. But in the field of reproductive health, precision medicine is still in its infancy.

Potentially. If we can pinpoint the mechanisms of ovarian aging, we could potentially develop a therapy that enables you to still have healthy eggs into your 50s, possibly your 60s. But just because we can do something doesnt always mean we should do it. We know that as women get older, pregnancies are more complicated. You have higher risk for things like high blood pressure, diabetes, and preterm labor. There are many downstream implications, both for the mothers health and the childs.

I dont think the goal should be to enable women to get pregnant into their 60s. Rather, we want women to have the best reproductive lifespan possible to be able to have children when they want to and to not have children when they don't want to and to have a society that supports women across that spectrum.

Were starting to believe that some of the same cellular mechanisms that underlie general aging might also control ovarian aging. This revelation makes the ovary even more interesting to study because its early demise could be a unique window into the bodys aging process. If we can identify cases of accelerated ovarian aging and understand the underlying causes, we might be able to improve not only reproductive function in individual women but also overall health and longevity for all women.

Samesex couples having genetically related children is probably on the horizon. Scientists are learning how to take skin cells or blood cells and turn them into stem cells, which can then be turned into eggs or sperm. Thats not science fiction; its already happening. We just need to figure out how to do it well and safely in humans.

Well probably also see germline engineering. Thats the process of editing genes in reproductive cells or embryos. It has the potential to cure disease before birth. This technology is here. But will society be ready to accept it? A lot of questions need to be answered before its put to use. In addition to technical hurdles, there are innumerable social issues. For instance, if we can eliminate a certain disease, will there be less focus on treatments for people who still have the disease? And what about access to care and social equity? Who would be able to afford these procedures? How will they be applied?

Restrictions are currently preventing the U.S. government from funding research that involves the manipulation of human embryos. As a result, funding for reproductive science is low, which has driven a lot of experts out of academia. If we want to see a revolution in reproductive health, like whats happening with precision cancer medicine, we need to invest in the development of scientific knowledge that will move this field forward.

Original post:
Research Jan. 2, 2020 The End of Infertility Is in Sight - UCSF News Services

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on Research Jan. 2, 2020 The End of Infertility Is in Sight – UCSF News Services | January 4th, 2020

The reconstitution of the blood system in humans holds great therapeutic potential to treat many disorders, like blood cancers, sickle-cell anemia and others. Successful reconstitution requires the transplantation and engraftment of hematopoietic (or blood) stem cells (HSCs), which after reaching their niche, start producing all types of blood cells, including platelets, white and red blood cells.

In current clinical practice, this is carried out by infusing HSCs obtained from a matched donor who is immunologically compatible with the patient in need (allogeneic transplantation), or by the expansion of the patient's own HSCs in the lab, and then re-infusing them back into the patient (ex-vivo, autologous transplantation). However, the utility of both routes is currently limited by a number of factors. First, in the case of allogeneic transplantation, the scarcity of matched donors significantly increases the waiting time, which could be detrimental to the patient. Second, the ex vivo expansion of HSCs, whether allogeneic or autologous, has been a challenging task, due to the limited proliferative potential these cells exhibit in culture. These limitations have raised the need for other sources of HSCs that would alleviate the need for matched donors and yield functional HSCs in large quantities.

In 2007, Professor Shinya Yamanaka and colleagues demonstrated that somatic cells, like skin fibroblasts, could be reprogrammed back to a cellular state that resembled human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), which are a group of cells found in the blastocyst-stage human embryo and contribute solely to the development of the human fetus during pregnancy. The reprogrammed cells were termed, Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs). In addition to their developmental potential, human ESCs and iPS cells display unlimited proliferative potential in culture, which makes them an ideal source of cells for regenerative medicine in general and for hematopoietic differentiation to obtain possibly unlimited quantities of HSCs. Therefore, there has been a growing interest to harness the potential of these cells for treating blood disorders.

However, advancement in deriving functional HSCs from human pluripotent stem cells has been slow. This has been attributed to incomplete understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying normal hematopoiesis. In this review, the authors discuss the latest efforts to generate HSCs capable of long-term engraftment and reconstitution of the blood system from human pluripotent stem cells. Stem cell research has witnessed milestone achievements in this area in the last couple of years, the significance of which are discussed and analyzed in detail.

The authors additionally discuss two highly important families of transcription factors in the context of hematopoiesis and hematopoietic differentiation, the Homeobox (HOX) and GATA proteins. These are thought of as master regulators, in the sense of having numerous transcriptional targets, which upon activation, could elicit significant changes in cell identity. The authors hypothesize that precise temporal control of the levels of certain members of these families during hematopoietic differentiation could yield functional HSCs capable of long-term engraftment.

The authors conclude the review with a summary of future perspectives, in which they discuss how newly developed techniques, like the deactivated-Cas9 (dCas9) gene-expression control system, can be utilized during the course of hematopoietic differentiation of pluripotent stem cells for precise temporal control of the aforementioned master regulators to achieve functional HSCs.

More:
Making blood on demand: How far have we come? - Science Codex

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on Making blood on demand: How far have we come? – Science Codex | January 4th, 2020

Victoria Beckham aims to "create a brand of the future" with Victoria Beckham Beauty.

The former Spice Girl launched her eponymous beauty brand last year, later expanding her label to include skincare, and the 45-year-old fashion designer says her intention was to create products that are sustainable and not made from toxic formulas, whilst being "inclusive" for all skin tones.

The mother-of-four told the February issue of Harper's Bazaar UK: "I've been obsessed with make-up and skincare and wellness for longer than I can remember."But I couldn't find what I wanted - clean beauty.

"What is that, even? It's a real grey area.

"I wanted to create a brand of the future - focusing on what's in the formulas but then also sustainability.

"The other thing that was key was making sure it was very inclusive - whether it's make-up or skincare, this is for every skin type and tone, and for both women and men."

In November, Victoria - who has Brooklyn, 20, Romeo, 17, Cruz, 14 and Harper, eight, with retired soccer star husband David Beckham - released her Cell Rejuvenating Priming Moisturiser in collaboration with Professor Augustinus Bader, the German stem-cell scientist behind The Cream, which was named as one of 2019's most popular skincare products.

Bader's product features a patented Trigger Factor Complex that works to jumpstart your skin's repair and renewal functions to heal skin faster and in turn, improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and as a fan of the cream herself, Victoria was thrilled to work with the scientist.

She said: "It's been a dream to develop, with Augustinus, a priming moisturiser that works to improve the health of my skin and gives me that fresh, natural glow that I love."

The priming moisturiser is a hybrid product that combines primer with moisturiser, and is inspired by Victoria's own skincare routine.

Victoria's product implements Bader's Trigger Factor Complex technology, as well as the lipids, vitamins, and amino acids found in his original cream, but with the added benefit of also smoothing skin so it's prepped for make-up application.

Bader explained: "It's the first priming moisturiser of its kind to care for your skin cells while also preparing your skin for makeup application."

The cream has a lightweight texture that can be work alone to give skin a radiant finish or under make-up, which according to Victoria, "will enhance your products."

Read the original:
Victoria Beckham Dreams That her Beauty Line Will Become 'Brand of the Future' - Al Bawaba

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on Victoria Beckham Dreams That her Beauty Line Will Become ‘Brand of the Future’ – Al Bawaba | January 4th, 2020

HUNTINGTON Serucell Corporation, a cosmeceutical company based in Huntington, has developed the worlds only dual-cell technology to create and produce anti-aging skincare products, and they did it in Huntington.

Serucell KFS Cellular Protein Complex Serum is made start to finish at Serucells laboratory on the south side of Huntington.

This has been one of the best kept secrets in West Virginia, said Cortland Bohacek, executive chairman and a co-founder of Serucell Corporation.

The company soft launch was in September 2018 at The Greenbrier Spas. The Official online launch was April 2019 and is getting exposure with some well known sellers like Neiman Marcus, local dermatologist and plastic surgeons offices and several other retail locations from New York to California. It is also sold online at serucell.com.

One person that has tried the product is Jennifer Wheeler, who is also a Huntington City Council member.

As a consumer I have an appreciation of the quality of the product and the results Ive seen using it, she said. It has been transformative for my skin and seems like its success will be transformative for our city as well.

She said Serucell and the people behind it are impressive on every level.

In my role on council, Im especially grateful for the companys conscious effort to stay and grow in our city, Wheeler said.

A one-ounce bottle of the serum costs $225. The recommended usage is twice per day and it will last on average of about six weeks.

Serucells active ingredient is called KFS (Keratinocyte Fibroblast Serum), which is made up of more than 1,500 naturally derived super proteins, collagens, peptides and signaling factors that support optimal communication within the cellular makeup of your skin.

This is the first and only dual-cell technology that optimizes hydration and harnesses the power of both keratinocytes and fibroblasts, two essential contributors to maintaining healthy skin by supporting natural rejuvenation of aging skin from the inside out, said Jennifer Hessel, president and CEO of the company.

When applied to the skin, KFS helps boost the skins natural ability to support new collagen and elastin, strengthen the connection and layer of support between the upper and lower layers of your skin. The result, over time is firmer, plumper and smoother skin, according to Hessel.

Why it works so naturally with your skin is because it is natural, Hessel said. These proteins play an important role in strengthening the bond between the layers of your skin, and thats where the re-boot happens.

KFS is the creation of Dr. Walter Neto, Serucells chief science officer and co-founder of the company. Neto is both a physician and a research scientist, specializing in the field of regenerative medicine with an emphasis on skin healing and repair.

Neto said Serucells technology unlocks the key to how our cells communicate and harnesses the signaling power actions to produce the thousands of bioactive proteins necessary to support the skins natural rejuvenation.

Originally from Brazil, Neto studied at Saint Matthews University and completed his clinical training in England. His clinical research on stem-cell cancer therapies, bone and tissue engineering and wound and burn healing led to his discovery in cell-to-cell communication, and ultimately the creation of Serucells KFS Cellular Protein Complex Serum.

Neto received multiple patents for the production method of Serucell KFS Serum.

Neto lives in Huntington with his wife and four golden retrievers.

Neto works alongside his longtime friend, Dr. Brett Jarrell.

I have known Brett since I was 18 years old, Neto said.

Jarrell practices emergency medicine in Ashland, Kentucky, and oversees all aspects of quality control for Serucell. He received his bachelors degree in biology from Wittenberg University, his masters degree in biology from Marshall University and his medical degree from the Marshall University School of Medicine. Jarrell completed his residency at West Virginia University and is board certified by the American Board of Emergency Medicine.

Jarrell has served as a clinical instructor of emergency medicine at the Marshall School of Medicine, president of the West Virginia chapter of the American College of Emergency Medicine and he has published a number of peer-reviewed journal articles on stroke research.

Jarrell also lives in Huntington.

Another co-founder of the company is Dr. Tom McClellan.

McClellan is Serucells chief medical officer and director of research and is a well-respected plastic and reconstructive surgeon with a private practice, McClellan Plastic Surgery, in Morgantown.

McClellan completed his plastic and reconstructive surgery training at the world-renowned Lahey Clinic Foundation, a Harvard Medical School and Tufts Medical School affiliate in Boston, Massachusetts. While in Boston, he worked at Lahey Medical Center, Brigham and Womens Hospital, as well as at the Boston Childrens Hospital. McClellan is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

In addition to his practice and role at Serucell, McClellan utilizes his surgical skills through pro bono work with InterplastWV, a non-profit group that provides comprehensive reconstructive surgery to the developing world. He has participated in surgical missions to Haiti, Peru and the Bahamas.

McClellan lives in Morgantown with his family.

All three doctors here have strong connections to West Virginia and we didnt want to leave, Neto said. We all want to give back to West Virginia, so that is the main reason we have our business here in Huntington.

We are building a company we believe can make a difference in the community, Hessel added. Our goal is to grow Serucell and build our brand right here in Huntington. There is a pool of untapped talent here in Huntington. When we expand our business here, we can provide another reason for young people to be able to stay and grow their careers, whether it is in science, operations or manufacturing. The team is a pretty excited to make an impact in the community where it all started.

Hessel decline to give sales numbers, but said the business has been growing each year since the product was introduced. She also declined to give the number of employees at the facility, but did say it has sales representatives across the country.

For more information, visit serucell.com.

Original post:
Local firm adds a new wrinkle to anti-aging products - The Coal Valley News

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on Local firm adds a new wrinkle to anti-aging products – The Coal Valley News | January 4th, 2020

I call it peak bleak: its right about now when all of us beyond our thirties are really thinking that our skin looks particularly knackered. Its central heating, its illness, its being overtired, over worked and over partied and it makes for a combination of low-level dryness and dullness that no illuminating make-up seems to ameliorate (highlighter on a dehydrated cheekbone is never flattering). Hydrating sheet masks, richer moisturisers and glycolic peels make some strides to improve exhausted skin, but the thing Ive found to make the single biggest difference is microneedling.

Im not referring to deep derma rolling treatments here (brilliant as they are for long term rejuvenation, they do entail some down-time) but rather facials - and at-home facial treatments - that incorporate a level of gentle needling. What gives these facials the edge on less than young skin is twofold: firstly, as leading facialist Sarah Chapman explains, microneedling is electronic precision engineering, creating thousands of needle columns into the skin, each one penetrating into the dermis layer to rejuvenate your skin by supercharging collagen production, which in turn reduces the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and improves the overall texture of your skin. Which goes to say that it gets right to the root cause of a bleak complexion and directly revs it up.

Secondly, needling is astoundingly effective at aiding absorption of serums applied both during and after treatment (thanks to those tiny channels that Chapman described) and, quite frankly, the more hydrating serum you can get your skin to suck up, the better in terms of improving its plumpness and luminosity in both the short and long term.

Treatment wise, the best facial that incorporates needling is Chapmans Stem Cell Collagen Therapy treatment, 210. Chapman calls it the ultimate youth-boosting facial, a punchy claim that I must say its hard to dispute. The needling itself feels like nothing more than an electric toothbrush being whisked over the skin as it pushes in concentrated doses of botanical stem cells and peptides, while the finishing Dermalux red-light therapy adds to the impressive post-treatment glow. Whether you're looking for a facial that really delivers pre- or post-party, or simply want a fix to rid you of lacklustre skin, this is the facial to book.

At home, I like to needle every other day with a gentle manual 0.2-0.3mm roller: freshly rolled skin sucks in serum incredibly satisfyingly, and the increased microcirculation it induces adds to the don't you look well effect. Environs CIT Roller, 59, and Nannette de Gaspes Art of Noir Roller Noir, 35, both manage to be effective yet gentle. Do not be tempted to buy a cheap roller on Amazon or eBay; the needles are often hooked, which can rip the skin leading to redness and inflammation.

Roller Noir

35.00

Skinesis Intense Hydrating Booster

64.00

B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum

40.00

Peptide Veil

115.00

Rolling can be done on bare skin, but I find it more effective and comfortable to apply a thick layer of hydrating serum first, slathering on three times the amount Id usually apply of either Skinesis Intense Hydrating Booster, 64, or Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydrating Serum, 44. Start at the forehead and roll over each area three or four times horizontally, three or four times vertically, then diagonally in each direction, before moving onto the cheeks and finally chin and neck. Finish with a thick veil of cream (Im loving Decree Peptide Emollient Veil, 115) and youll wake up to skin that is anything but bleak.

Like this article? Sign up to our new newsletter to get more articles like this delivered straight to your inbox.

SIGN UP

Read the original:
Why microneedling facials really work to revive 40+ skin - harpersbazaar.com

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on Why microneedling facials really work to revive 40+ skin – harpersbazaar.com | January 2nd, 2020

Colleen LeCours lay in a hospital bed at the General campus of The Ottawa Hospital on August 12, 2016, waiting for the only thing that could save her life a stem cell transplant from a stranger.

The donor could be anywhere in the world if a related blood donor cant be found, the call to find a match goes out to registries all over the globe and the donated stem cells are rushed across international borders.

What LeCours didnt know is that her donor, an 18-year-old Carleton University student named Timothy White, was just one floor below. Similarly, White didnt know that his recipient was in the same hospital.

There are currently more than 450,000 people on the Canadian Blood Services Stem Cell Registry formerly known as OneMatch and 36 million on affiliated international registries. Still, some people never find a match. There are more than 900 Canadians in need of a transplant who have not found a match anywhere in the world.

What were the odds that the match for LeCours, now 57, would be found in the same city?

Astronomical, she said.

The chances that White would even ever be asked to donate were also very low only about one in a thousand. After he agreed to donate, he was not told where the recipient might be. I was told the recipient could be anywhere. They could be in Africa, said White, now 22 and a recent graduate in computer science.

White had signed up for the registry through a cheek swab booth at ComiCon less than six months earlier. A smart place to recruit would-be stem cell donors, he notes. The optimal donor is a male between the age of 17 and 35 and thats the ComiCon demographic.

He decided to register as a potential donor because he grew up in the scouting movement. One of the main philosophies is to do a good turn every day, he said.

The donation was a non-surgical procedure in which Whites blood was removed though a needle, the stem cells were separated from his blood and the remaining blood components returned to his body through another needle. The procedure started at about 8 a.m. and was over by about 5 p.m.

I figured if I gave someone a day for a thousand more days (of life) then I felt it was a fair trade. I have many years of life. Why not spend one day? said White.

LeCourss medical journey started in 2009 with an emergency room visit for abdominal pain. She was eventually diagnosed with Stage 4 follicular lymphoma, a blood cancer that affects infection-fighting white blood cells. At the time, LeCours was working for Gov.-Gen. Michalle Jean and was able to stay on the job most of the time during her six months of treatment.

Four years later, the lymphoma returned. It was back again two years after that, in a more aggressive form. The only treatment was stem cell transplant.

There are two main kinds of stem cell transplants autologous and allogenic. In an autologous transplant, stem cells are collected from a patients own blood and reintroduced after being treated to remove cancer cells. In an allogenic stem cell transplant, the stem cells come from a donor.

At this point, LeCours was a candidate for an autologous transplant. Once again, she underwent aggressive chemotherapy. A year later, the cancer returned.

Doctors told LeCours there wasnt much else they could do and advised her to get her affairs in order. But the hospitals transplant team felt she could be a candidate for an allogenic transplant. Theres risk rejecting donated stem cells can be fatal to the patient.

LeCours learned that her brother was a match. But the medical work-up would last about three months and she couldnt wait that long.

I wasnt sure I wanted to do it but I didnt have much choice, she said. They said, We have someone waiting in the wings.

And I said, He probably has wings.

After the transplant, LeCours recovered as an outpatient in the home of her brother and sister-in-law. It took three months to rebuild her immune system. Her only rejection symptoms were a bit of skin irritation.

In January 2018, LeCours received an email asking if she would like to exchange contact information with her donor. She replied that she would.

A few months later, she got a message with Whites co-ordinates and was astonished to find that her donor was in Ottawa. It took her a few weeks to formulate an email.

I didnt want to scare him. I just wanted him to know how incredibly grateful I was. And I wanted to pay it forward, said LeCours.

After careful consideration, she sent White an email on Oct. 8, 2018.

Today, being Thanksgiving, I have so much to be thankful for, namely you giving your stem cells and saving my life and the success of the stem cells grafting to my bone marrow, LeCours wrote. I cant thank you enough for your wonderful selfless act.

Stem cell donor 18-year-old Carleton University student Timothy White at The Ottawa Hospital, General campus, donating stem cells for Colleen LeCours in August 2016. At the time he did not know that LeCours would be the recipient. Courtesy Timothy White.jpg

She added that she didnt know anything about him except for his name and email address, and asked if they could meet. They got together for the first time over lunch in a burger restaurant.

As soon as I saw him, I broke down, said LeCours.

It has been three and a half years since the transplant and LeCours remains in remission. She invited White to her familys Thanksgiving this year, and the two meet to catch up every few months. Its one of the quirks of stem cell donation that the recipient assumes the blood type of the donor. LeCours, once O-positive, now has blood type A-negative, like White.

Im a grandmother. The fact that my grandson has his moma is huge.

ALSO IN THE NEWS

Ottawa police chief lifts suspension of police union boss Matt Skof

Reduce the burden: Inuit healing centre reopens after funding lapse forced shut down

RTG wasnt on top of it : New Years Eve light rail issues attributed to dirt, grit buildup on trains

See the article here:
What are the odds? Stem cell recipient learns her donor is also in Ottawa - Ottawa Citizen

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on What are the odds? Stem cell recipient learns her donor is also in Ottawa – Ottawa Citizen | January 2nd, 2020

A LITTLE girl who won the backing of thousands of strangers online died of leukaemia on New Year's Day.

Esme Handley was just three years old when she passed away.

6

6

The adorable tot was diagnosed with blood cancer at just 22 months, after developing a bruise while she was on a family holiday in Greece.

Her parents Rebecca and Will broke the heartbreaking news on their daughter's Facebook Page, named Esme Lionheart after her love of lions.

They said: If you look to the sky tonight you will see a star shining brighter than any other.

Our darling girl went onwards with her journey at midday today.

"She was peaceful and in our arms and knew how ridiculously adored she was.

Esme Grace Angela Handley 13.08.2016 - 01.01.2020.

Rebecca, 38, and Will, 43, faced a battle to try and save their only daughter following her diagnosis.

They discovered she had the high risk acute myeloid leukaemia during a family trip to Greece before which Esme fell.

6

When a bruise that developed shortly afterwards failed to disappear, the couple Googled Esme's symptoms and became concerned.

She was taken to hospital in Greece where the diagnosis was confirmed.

Esme was given a stem cell transplant in September 2018 alongside three rounds of chemotherapy but after six months the leukaemia returned in the tots bone marrow.

If you look to the sky tonight you will see a star shining brighter than any other. Our darling girl went onwards with her journey at midday today.

The family were not eligible for a second transplant on the NHS and were faced with raising 500,000 privately for the urgent treatment.

In November, her parents admitted that Esme could no longer expect to be cured and said their baby had simply had enough.

They said: Since diagnosis we have often spoken about a metaphorical 'sealed envelope' that contains Esme's fate.

"Yesterday we got to open that envelope and it was not what we had hoped.

The leukaemia is out of control and there is nothing more which can be done.

We have spoken with every single, leading paediatric consultant globally, tried all available drugs (some of which arent even licensed in kids), explored a ridiculous amount of supplements and complementary medicines, had healing circles far and wide sending prayers.....

But its not been enough. We dont get to keep our baby.

6

And to be perfectly honest, even if there was something else they could come up with, right now, Im not sure we would be able to pursue it.

"Its very clear to see that Esme has simply had enough....and who could blame her?

Esme thrives when shes outdoors but all she has known for 18 months is hospitals. The treatment she has had wouldnt be tolerated by most adults.

She has been continually pumped full of drugs; had hundreds of blood transfusions; successfully come through one stem cell transplant; had surgery for three Hickman lines into her heart; had numerous tubes shoved up her nose and drops in her eyes, suffered countless horrendous infections including a type of pneumonia three times; lost her hair; lost her fingernails; vomited daily, had her skin break down, crack, be burnt from chemo; nearly died from sepsis; almost died from anaphylaxis; been blue-lighted to PICU after having a seizure which temporarily left her in a vegetative state thanks to a fungal brain infection....and it goes on.

Whilst we would do absolutely anything for her, ANYTHING, Im also not sure how much more we can tolerate either.

A month later, they described the heartbreaking cocktail of pain management Esme had to bear to soften her ever-increasing suffering".

6

At the time, her parents posted: It's now three weeks to the day that we learnt that Esme's story will not have the happy ending we've all prayed for, three long weeks in which we've had to contemplate the unthinkable and bear witness to Esme's ever-increasing suffering.

In the first couple of weeks one of the biggest difficulties was accepting that the team's goal was no longer to cure but just to manage pain.

This sounds obvious but you suddenly find yourself inexplicably sad that the nurses are no longer asking you for Esme's heart rate or temperature every few hours.

At one point I even found myself crying when I bumped into another child being wheeled to theatre and realised Esme will never have another general anaesthetic.

Instead, getting ahead of Esme's pain has become a full-time occupation for us and the team, and Ezzie is now on an ever-escalating daily mix of paracetamol, topical morphine, oxycodone, ketamine and, most recently, methadone.

6

The psychology team here warn against reading adult meanings into our children's innocent words but it's difficult not to tear up when Esme tells us repeatedly I don't think my bottom's ever gonna get better, it's the hurtiest bottom in the whole world ....or My arm/leg/back/headache is killing me.

They also described how Esme had been bedridden for three months and would never walk again.

But the tot had her own Christmas tree and was even taken out of the Royal Marsden Hospital over the festive period to see Christmas lights in Morden before a screening of Frozen 2 at Everyman Esher.

SIGNS OF LEUKAEMIA EVERY PARENT NEEDS TO KNOW

LEUKAEMIA is a type of blood cancer, some forms of which are more common in children.

There are no specific signs or symptoms which would allow for a doctor to make a diagnosis without lab tests.

In all types of leukaemia symptoms are more commonly caused by a lack of normal blood cells than by the presence of abnormal white cells.

As the bone marrow becomes full of leukaemia cells, it is unable to produce the large numbers of normal blood cells which the body needs.

Thiscan lead to:

BREAK THE FAST Best breakfast ideas to burn fat first thing in the morning

STRANGER DANGER Mum covered in tumours is abused by strangers who think she's contagious

SPICE IS RIGHT Turmeric could help beat cancer as compound in spice may kill tumours

SINISTER SCAR Chickenpox scar develops into skin cancer 30yrs after woman caught the virus

WEIGHTY ISSUE How to lose weight fast with the 8 best diets of 2020 including keto & vegan

Exclusive

WEIGH TO GO I lost 9st by counting my steps - after devastating warning from doctors

COLON CONDITION Get the lowdown on the signs, symptoms and treatment for colitis

ULTIMATE GIFT None of these beaming kids would be alive today without a stranger's blood

LAST WISH Size 26 mum, 42, sheds staggering 10st to honour her dying mum's wish

Now Will and Rebecca, of West Norwood, south London, hope to donate money in Esmes name.

They have already raised 425,000 on GoFundMe.

Rebecca said in November: When we began fundraising we were punchy with our target to ensure we had enough for a self-funded transplant and said that whatever remained would go to the CCLG, the UK's leading kids cancer charity.

Given how desperately poor the funding is into paediatric AML research, we feel even more strongly about this now.

So a large chunk of the cash we have remaining (after spending some on novel drugs and supportive care) will be donated to AML research to try and spare future families the pain and anguish we have experienced.

To donate in memory of Esme, visit her GoFundMe page here.

Here is the original post:
Girl, 3, dies in her parents arms on New Years Day after leukaemia battle - The Sun

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on Girl, 3, dies in her parents arms on New Years Day after leukaemia battle – The Sun | January 2nd, 2020

Medical science is learning more and more about pregnancy and fetal development. And what they are finding is mind-blowing. We now know that there is a radical mutuality in the relationship between the mother and her child in the womb. Both work together to build the placenta. And just as cells from the mothers body become part of the baby, cells from the baby become permanent parts of the mother.

From an interview in the Catholic magazine Crux with Prof. Kristin Marguerite Collier of the University of Michigan Medical School:

The placenta is the organ through which the mother and prenatal child interface. The placenta is an organ that is attached to the inside of the uterus and connects to the prenatal child through the childs umbilical cord.

What is not as well known about this organ is that the placenta is the only organ in human biology that is made by two persons, together, in cooperation. The placenta is built from tissue that is part from mom, and part from the growing baby. Because of this, the placenta is referred to as a feto-maternal organ. It is the only organ made by two people, in cooperation with providence. It is the first time mom and her baby come together, albeit at the cellular level, to do something in cooperation. . . .

In the creation of the placenta, cells from the trophoblast, which are from the embryo, reach down towards the mothers uterine wall while at the same time, the spiral arteries from the mothers uterus are reaching up towards the embryo. This process leads to the creation of the placenta.

The placenta is the only purposely transient organ in humans and unlike the rest of our organs, acts as many organs in one. The placenta functions to eliminate waste, like the kidneys would do, facilitates transfer of oxygen and carbon dioxide, like the lungs would do, and provides nutrients, like a GI tract would do. It even has endocrine and immune function. What used to be discarded as just the afterbirth is now regarded as a magnificently complex shared organ that supports the formation of the prenatal child.

Even more amazing to me is the phenomenon of fetomaternal microchimerism, named after the chimera of Greek mythology, a creature comprised of three different species:

In science, microchimerism is the presence of a small population of genetically distinct and separately derived cells within an individual. During pregnancy, small numbers of cells traffic across the placenta. Some of the prenatal childs cells cross into the mother, and some cells from the mother cross into the prenatal child. The cells from the prenatal child are pluripotent and integrate into tissues in her mothers body and start functioning like the cells around them. This integration is known as feto-maternal microchimerism.

The presence of these cells is amazing for several reasons. One is that these cells have been found in various maternal organs and tissues such as the brain, the breast, the thyroid and the skin. These are all organs which in some way are important for the health of both the baby and her mother in relationship. The post-partum phase is when there is need, for example, for lactation. The fetomaternal microchimeric cells have been shown to be important in signaling lactation. These cells have been found in the skin, for example, in Cesarean section incisions where they are helping to produce collagen. Baby is helping mom heal after delivery by the presence of her cells! It would be one thing for these cells to come into the mother and be inert, but is a whole other thing entirely that these cells are active and aid mom for example in helping to produce milk for her baby and helping her heal. These cells may even affect how soon the mother can get pregnant again and therefore can affect spacing of future siblings.

To think that a physical presence of the baby in her mother is helping protect her from cancer at the level of the cell, speaks to a radical mutuality at the cellular level that we are just beginning to understand. . . .

The big takeaway is that the science of microchimerism supports the fact that some human beings carry remnants of other humans in their bodies. Thus, we arent the singular-autonomous individuals we think of ourselves as being.

I came across another article that said that if the mother suffers organ damage during pregnancy, the baby can send its stem cells to repair the damage! (The article included a link to this medical journal.)

The Crux interviewer, Charles C. Camosy, wanted to bring out the implications for Marys relationship with Jesus. Yes, said Prof. Collierwho is a Christian, but not a CatholicMary would always have a part of Jesus with her, indeed, as a part of her. But this intimate mutual union is also true, she said, for all mothers.All mothers carry their children with them, on a cellular level, for their whole lives. And just as she has contributed to the formation of the bodies of her children, they have contributed to the formation of hers.

Prof. Collier then makes a startlingly comforting application. Mothers whose children have died, she said, often feel that their children are still with them. We now know that they are.

Illustration via Good Free Photos, Public Domain

Original post:
The Mutuality Between Mothers and Their Developing Babies - Patheos

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on The Mutuality Between Mothers and Their Developing Babies – Patheos | January 2nd, 2020

HUNTINGTON Serucell Corporation, a cosmeceutical company based in Huntington, has developed the worlds only dual-cell technology to create and produce anti-aging skincare products, and they did it in Huntington.

Serucell KFS Cellular Protein Complex Serum is made start to finish at Serucells laboratory on the south side of Huntington.

This has been one of the best kept secrets in West Virginia, said Cortland Bohacek, executive chairman and a co-founder of Serucell Corporation.

The company soft launch was in September 2018 at The Greenbrier Spas. The Official online launch was April 2019 and is getting exposure with some well known sellers like Neiman Marcus, local dermatologist and plastic surgeons offices and several other retail locations from New York to California. It is also sold online at serucell.com.

One person that has tried the product is Jennifer Wheeler, who is also a Huntington City Council member.

As a consumer I have an appreciation of the quality of the product and the results Ive seen using it, she said. It has been transformative for my skin and seems like its success will be transformative for our city as well.

She said Serucell and the people behind it are impressive on every level.

In my role on council, Im especially grateful for the companys conscious effort to stay and grow in our city, Wheeler said.

A one-ounce bottle of the serum costs $225. The recommended usage is twice per day and it will last on average of about six weeks.

Serucells active ingredient is called KFS (Keratinocyte Fibroblast Serum), which is made up of more than 1,500 naturally derived super proteins, collagens, peptides and signaling factors that support optimal communication within the cellular makeup of your skin.

This is the first and only dual-cell technology that optimizes hydration and harnesses the power of both keratinocytes and fibroblasts, two essential contributors to maintaining healthy skin by supporting natural rejuvenation of aging skin from the inside out, said Jennifer Hessel, president and CEO of the company.

When applied to the skin, KFS helps boost the skins natural ability to support new collagen and elastin, strengthen the connection and layer of support between the upper and lower layers of your skin. The result, over time is firmer, plumper and smoother skin, according to Hessel.

Why it works so naturally with your skin is because it is natural, Hessel said. These proteins play an important role in strengthening the bond between the layers of your skin, and thats where the re-boot happens.

KFS is the creation of Dr. Walter Neto, Serucells chief science officer and co-founder of the company. Neto is both a physician and a research scientist, specializing in the field of regenerative medicine with an emphasis on skin healing and repair.

Neto said Serucells technology unlocks the key to how our cells communicate and harnesses the signaling power actions to produce the thousands of bioactive proteins necessary to support the skins natural rejuvenation.

Originally from Brazil, Neto studied at Saint Matthews University and completed his clinical training in England. His clinical research on stem-cell cancer therapies, bone and tissue engineering and wound and burn healing led to his discovery in cell-to-cell communication, and ultimately the creation of Serucells KFS Cellular Protein Complex Serum.

Neto received multiple patents for the production method of Serucell KFS Serum. He lives in Huntington with his wife and four golden retrievers and works alongside his longtime friend, Dr. Brett Jarrell.

I have known Brett since I was 18 years old, Neto said.

Jarrell practices emergency medicine in Ashland, Kentucky, and oversees all aspects of quality control for Serucell. He received his bachelors degree in biology from Wittenberg University, his masters degree in biology from Marshall University and his medical degree from the Marshall University School of Medicine. Jarrell completed his residency at West Virginia University and is board certified by the American Board of Emergency Medicine.

Jarrell has served as a clinical instructor of emergency medicine at the Marshall School of Medicine, president of the West Virginia chapter of the American College of Emergency Medicine and he has published a number of peer-reviewed journal articles on stroke research.

Jarrell also lives in Huntington.

Another co-founder of the company is Dr. Tom McClellan.

McClellan is Serucells chief medical officer and director of research and is a well-respected plastic and reconstructive surgeon with a private practice, McClellan Plastic Surgery, in Morgantown.

McClellan completed his plastic and reconstructive surgery training at the world-renowned Lahey Clinic Foundation, a Harvard Medical School and Tufts Medical School affiliate in Boston, Massachusetts. While in Boston, he worked at Lahey Medical Center, Brigham and Womens Hospital, as well as at the Boston Childrens Hospital. McClellan is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

In addition to his practice and role at Serucell, McClellan utilizes his surgical skills through pro bono work with InterplastWV, a non-profit group that provides comprehensive reconstructive surgery to the developing world. He has participated in surgical missions to Haiti, Peru and the Bahamas.

McClellan lives in Morgantown with his family.

All three doctors here have strong connections to West Virginia, and we didnt want to leave, Neto said. We all want to give back to West Virginia, so that is the main reason we have our business here in Huntington.

We are building a company we believe can make a difference in the community, Hessel added. Our goal is to grow Serucell and build our brand right here in Huntington. There is a pool of untapped talent here in Huntington. When we expand our business here, we can provide another reason for young people to be able to stay and grow their careers, whether it is in science, operations or manufacturing. The team is a pretty excited to make an impact in the community where it all started.

Hessel decline to give sales numbers, but said the business has been growing each year since the product was introduced. She also declined to give the number of employees at the facility, but did say it has sales representatives across the country.

Go here to read the rest:
Firm adds a new wrinkle to anti-aging products - Williamson Daily News

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on Firm adds a new wrinkle to anti-aging products – Williamson Daily News | January 2nd, 2020

HERE are four beaming children none of whom would be alive today if a stranger had not given blood.

Each of their lives was saved by a transfusion, yet many of us never find the time to sign up to become a donor.

NHS Blood and Transplant is encouraging readers to make giving blood one of their New Year resolutions.

It is particularly calling on men to donate because their blood can be more suitable for treating patients. The families of these four survivors tell Lynsey Hope their stories.

'We worry every day he might suffer a serious bleed'

GEORGE CLAXTON lives with mum Faye, 36, a salon owner, dad Luke, 34, an electrical engineer, and sister Ella, six, in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire. Faye says:

"When George was 14 months old he was diagnosed with a rare platelet disorder.

"The condition doesnt have a name but it means his blood cant clot properly.

"Tiny blood cells called platelets in his blood are the wrong shape and size and he has to take medication daily.

"We found out he had it after he suffered a virus and came out with a rash.

"Its called petechiae but can look similar to meningitis.

"We took George to A&E at Hinchingbrooke Hospital near Huntington. Blood tests came back negative and we were sent home.

"But two weeks later, we were back again.

"We were referred to specialists at Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge, who discovered George was bleeding under the skin.

"Its been hard to accept its a lifelong condition and not something that can be cured.

"There have been two occasions when George has needed a transfusion.

"The first was in June 2016.

"Doctors had to perform a transfusion before he had a tooth extracted to make sure he didnt bleed too much during the procedure.

"In May last year, he fell over in the school playground and hurt his elbow, causing a bleed in his joint.

"George has been brave from the start.

"He loves football but we worry every day he may have an accident that causes a serious bleed.

"He can also have spontaneous bleeds.

"His little sister was also diagnosed with the condition.

"She hasnt needed a transfusion yet but she may do and that is devastating for us as parents.

"Were so grateful to people who donate blood.

"It can enable people to live."

'Just an hour of your time could be the gift of a lifetime'

JESSICA FAY lives in Burnley with her mum Laura Bell, 32, dad Adam Fay, 39, who is a carer, and her brothers Kyle, 14, Denver, 13, Jayden, eight and Taylor, six. Laura, a full-time mum, says:

"Jessica was diagnosed with meningitis and septicaemia when she was 15 weeks old.

"I took her to the GP when she started feeling unwell.

"She wasnt feeding and had a high temperature.

"The doctor was concerned and said I must take her straight to hospital.

"Within hours of arriving at A&E, Jessica stopped breathing and was put on life-support.

"The disease had taken over her body and, one by one, her organs were shutting down.

"There was only one option. A blood transfusion might dilute the infection in her blood and give her a chance.

"There was a risk her body would reject the blood and we knew if that happened wed lose her.

"Incredibly though, that blood transfusion saved her life.

"She remained in intensive care for a week and, after three weeks, she came home.

"Jessica was being given so many treatments in those terrible few weeks that I didnt think too much about where the blood had come from.

"But when she recovered, I realised that without it she would not have made it. Unfortunately, Jessica suffered some brain damage because of what happened.

"She has social communication disorder and finds it hard to make friends.

"She is an incredible child and Im so grateful to whoever it was that took the time to donate blood for her.

"If someone hadnt donated that blood, Jessica would be dead.

"She has done all she can to give something back.

"Shes raised thousands of pounds for charity by organising events in the community.

"I would urge anyone who can to give blood it is just an hour of your time but it could be the gift of a lifetime to a child like Jessica.'

'Our baby can be in a lot of pain due to the disease'

EZRAH PINK was born with sickle cell disease. He lives with his mum Serena, 30, who looks after an office building, and her partner Courtney, 32, an estate agent, in Beckenham, Kent. Serena says:

"We knew before Ezrah was born that he might have sickle cell disease.

"When I was pregnant, doctors found out I carried a gene.

"About a week after he was born, they confirmed Ezrah had the disease.

"People with sickle cell produce unusual C-shaped red blood cells, meaning they sometimes get stuck or block blood vessels. At first, he didnt show any symptoms.

"He started having problems when he was around 11 months.

"Since then its been a whirlwind. We have been in and out of hospital.

"Id never known anyone with sickle cell so its been a tough learning curve and the condition will affect him for life.

"Ezrah has already had four blood transfusions.

"When one of his odd-shaped blood cells gets stuck, it causes what is called a sickle cell crisis and this can cause a great deal of pain.

"Ezrah is also prone to serious infections.

"He takes penicillin every day as well as folic acid to boost his immunity.

"Id never given blood before having Ezrah.

"It wasnt until the first time doctors told me that they were going to have to transfuse him that I realised how important it was.

"Im pregnant now so I cant do it myself just yet, but as soon as I can sign up, I will.

"You never know whats round the corner.

"Its not until it happens to someone close to you that you realise how important it is."

'While recovering he's had more than 50 transfusions'

JACOB JESSEL lives with mum Emma Riley, 47, an NHS project manager, dad Nick Jessel, 44, a sales manager, and brother Sam, eight, near Grimsby, Lincs. Emma says:

"Jacob was diagnosed with a rare blood disorder when he was seven.

"We went on a camping trip and he was bitten by a mosquito. A huge bruise came out, which covered most of his forearm.

"Our GP took blood and told us his blood count was dangerously low and that we had to take him straight to hospital.

"It was a huge shock and it was obvious to us that doctors feared he had leukaemia.

"Jacob was given an emergency bone marrow biopsy at Sheffield Childrens Hospital and we were told he probably had cancer.

"Waiting for the results of the biopsy was horrible.

"We were relieved when the tests came back negative, but more tests revealed he had an incurable bone marrow disorder.

"Doctors said hed need a transplant, which he had in 2017.

"There was only one match on the register at the time so we went ahead with it. But sadly that didnt work.

"About a month later, he had a transplant using his dads stem cells, which has been effective.

"While recovering, he had more than 50 blood transfusions.

"He now attends a follow-up clinic every four to six months to make sure his blood keeps working properly.

"Before Jacob was ill, I was one of these people who never got round to giving blood.

"I thought it was a good thing to do but I kept putting it off.

WRAPPED UP The mums who have their Christmas shopping for next year sewn up by January

CHECK IT OUT Mum in hysterics over 3-year-old's impression of Aldis checkouts at Christmas

ICE WORK! Woman shows how youre actually meant to use ice cube bags

'WE MISS THEM' Pregnant mum-of-21 calls 2019 hardest of her life after devastating losses'

INSTA-SHAM People share best photoshop fails theyve seen, from tiny waists to freaky faces

TOYING WITH US Mums slam 25 Scruff-a-Luvs toy pets which look nothing like the ad

"But every time a unit of blood was delivered to the ward for Jacob, I felt incredibly relieved that someone, somewhere, had taken the time to give blood.

"Now I give blood regularly. Its a good feeling to know you are helping someone else.

"I know how grateful the recipient will 7 be. Its the best gift anyone can give."

Original post:
None of these four beaming children would be alive today if a stranger had not given blood - The Sun

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on None of these four beaming children would be alive today if a stranger had not given blood – The Sun | January 2nd, 2020

HUNTINGTON Serucell Corporation, a cosmeceutical company based in Huntington, has developed the worlds only dual-cell technology to create and produce anti-aging skincare products, and they did it in Huntington.

Serucell KFS Cellular Protein Complex Serum is made start to finish at Serucells laboratory on the south side of Huntington.

This has been one of the best kept secrets in West Virginia, said Cortland Bohacek, executive chairman and a co-founder of Serucell Corporation.

The company soft launch was in September 2018 at The Greenbrier Spas. The Official online launch was April 2019 and is getting exposure with some well known sellers like Neiman Marcus, local dermatologist and plastic surgeons offices and several other retail locations from New York to California. It is also sold online at serucell.com.

One person that has tried the product is Jennifer Wheeler, who is also a Huntington City Council member.

As a consumer I have an appreciation of the quality of the product and the results Ive seen using it, she said. It has been transformative for my skin and seems like its success will be transformative for our city as well.

She said Serucell and the people behind it are impressive on every level.

In my role on council, Im especially grateful for the companys conscious effort to stay and grow in our city, Wheeler said.

A one-ounce bottle of the serum costs $225. The recommended usage is twice per day and it will last on average of about six weeks.

Serucells active ingredient is called KFS (Keratinocyte Fibroblast Serum), which is made up of more than 1,500 naturally derived super proteins, collagens, peptides and signaling factors that support optimal communication within the cellular makeup of your skin.

This is the first and only dual-cell technology that optimizes hydration and harnesses the power of both keratinocytes and fibroblasts, two essential contributors to maintaining healthy skin by supporting natural rejuvenation of aging skin from the inside out, said Jennifer Hessel, president and CEO of the company.

When applied to the skin, KFS helps boost the skins natural ability to support new collagen and elastin, strengthen the connection and layer of support between the upper and lower layers of your skin. The result, over time is firmer, plumper and smoother skin, according to Hessel.

Why it works so naturally with your skin is because it is natural, Hessel said. These proteins play an important role in strengthening the bond between the layers of your skin, and thats where the re-boot happens.

KFS is the creation of Dr. Walter Neto, Serucells chief science officer and co-founder of the company. Neto is both a physician and a research scientist, specializing in the field of regenerative medicine with an emphasis on skin healing and repair.

Neto said Serucells technology unlocks the key to how our cells communicate and harnesses the signaling power actions to produce the thousands of bioactive proteins necessary to support the skins natural rejuvenation.

Originally from Brazil, Neto studied at Saint Matthews University and completed his clinical training in England. His clinical research on stem-cell cancer therapies, bone and tissue engineering and wound and burn healing led to his discovery in cell-to-cell communication, and ultimately the creation of Serucells KFS Cellular Protein Complex Serum.

Neto received multiple patents for the production method of Serucell KFS Serum. He lives in Huntington with his wife and four golden retrievers and works alongside his longtime friend, Dr. Brett Jarrell.

I have known Brett since I was 18 years old, Neto said.

Jarrell practices emergency medicine in Ashland, Kentucky, and oversees all aspects of quality control for Serucell. He received his bachelors degree in biology from Wittenberg University, his masters degree in biology from Marshall University and his medical degree from the Marshall University School of Medicine. Jarrell completed his residency at West Virginia University and is board certified by the American Board of Emergency Medicine.

Jarrell has served as a clinical instructor of emergency medicine at the Marshall School of Medicine, president of the West Virginia chapter of the American College of Emergency Medicine and he has published a number of peer-reviewed journal articles on stroke research.

Jarrell also lives in Huntington.

Another co-founder of the company is Dr. Tom McClellan.

McClellan is Serucells chief medical officer and director of research and is a well-respected plastic and reconstructive surgeon with a private practice, McClellan Plastic Surgery, in Morgantown.

McClellan completed his plastic and reconstructive surgery training at the world-renowned Lahey Clinic Foundation, a Harvard Medical School and Tufts Medical School affiliate in Boston, Massachusetts. While in Boston, he worked at Lahey Medical Center, Brigham and Womens Hospital, as well as at the Boston Childrens Hospital. McClellan is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

In addition to his practice and role at Serucell, McClellan utilizes his surgical skills through pro bono work with InterplastWV, a non-profit group that provides comprehensive reconstructive surgery to the developing world. He has participated in surgical missions to Haiti, Peru and the Bahamas.

McClellan lives in Morgantown with his family.

All three doctors here have strong connections to West Virginia, and we didnt want to leave, Neto said. We all want to give back to West Virginia, so that is the main reason we have our business here in Huntington.

We are building a company we believe can make a difference in the community, Hessel added. Our goal is to grow Serucell and build our brand right here in Huntington. There is a pool of untapped talent here in Huntington. When we expand our business here, we can provide another reason for young people to be able to stay and grow their careers, whether it is in science, operations or manufacturing. The team is a pretty excited to make an impact in the community where it all started.

Hessel decline to give sales numbers, but said the business has been growing each year since the product was introduced. She also declined to give the number of employees at the facility, but did say it has sales representatives across the country.

For more information, visit serucell.com.

See the article here:
Firm adds a new wrinkle to anti-aging products - The Logan Banner

Skin Stem Cells Comments Off on Firm adds a new wrinkle to anti-aging products – The Logan Banner | January 1st, 2020