Pfizer, Plasticell and Cellzome to conduct stem cell research

Pfizer is allying with Plasticell, Cellzome and the University of Sheffield on a new research project focusing on stem cell therapies.

Plasticell's technology strategy board has announced this week that it will be providing funding for the Cellzome-led research consortium, with 900,000 pounds having been allocated as part of its regenerative medicine programme.

The project will be aimed at creating methods of characterising stem cells by assessing protein fingerprints predictive of changes in stem cell behaviour.

Dennis Saw, chief executive of Plasticell, said this initiative will help to address a "critical" human stem cell research issue, offering downstream applications in regenerative medicine and cellular therapy.

"We are pleased to be able to contribute our longstanding expertise in directed differentiation of stem cells to this multidisciplinary team comprising leading groups in the field," he said.

In November 2011, Pfizer expanded its research capabilities further by completing the acquisition of Excaliard Pharmaceuticals, a specialist developer of skin fibrosis treatments.