Tuesday, November 15, 2011

International Stem Cell Says Q3 Revenues Rise on Skin Care Line Success by Deborah Terescu

International Stem Cell Corp (ISCO) (OTCBB:ISCO) announced Tuesday that third quarter revenue soared as the stem cell tech company continues to advance its subsidiary Lifeline Skin Care (LSC).
Lifeline's skin care line is based on International Stem Cell's core proprietary technology, parthenogenesis, which results in the creation of human stem cells from unfertilized eggs, avoiding the ethical issue associated with the destruction of viable human embryos.
The first two products of the line, a Day Serum and a Night Serum, which were launched late last year, both contain extracts from stem cells which, in combination with vitamin complexes, provide rejuvenating effects, including improvement in skin tone and elasticity, as well as the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The subsidiary announced last week two overseas distribution deals for the products, agreeing to distribute the products in the United Arab Emirates through a partnership with facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Gregory S. Keller of California, and engaging Dr. K. McIsaac to distribute Lifeline's products in Australia and New Zealand.
Parent company International Stem Cell Corp, which is focused on the therapeutic applications of human parthenogenetic stem cells, also holds subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology (LCT), which produces and markets specalized cells for therapeutic research.
For the three months to September 30, 2011, ISCO reported revenue of $0.84 million, more than double the sales in the same period of last year, driven by strong sales from the initial launch of Lifeline Skin Care, which began operations in the fourth quarter of 2010.
In addition, the company said that steady growth in sales from ISCO’s other subsidiary, Lifeline Cell Technology, also contributed to the boost in revenue. 
ISCO continues to invest in the development of new technologies, products and channels of distribution.
For the quarter, development expenses, excluding cost of sales, were $3.60 million, an increase of 15 percent compared to the third quarter of 2010, reflecting increased research and development activities on therapeutic programs, and new product development for both subsidiaries, the company said.
“We are pleased with the rapid growth in sales of our two subsidiaries, LSC and LCT. Together, these business units are providing much-needed capital to help support our growth as well as the research leading to the development of new stem cell technologies and products,”said co-Chairman and CEO, Dr. Andrey Semechkin.
Aside from the skin care progress, during the latest quarter, ISCO has reported several operational developments, including the successful completion of the first series of preclinical trials of its neuronal cells derived from human parthenogenetic stem cells (hpSC).
The company said the cells were able to survive in the brains of mice without giving rise to tumours, representing a key milestone towards possible therapeutic applications of hpSCs, including the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
ISCO's Lifeline Cell Technology subsidiary also began selling products through new distribution channels in Japan, Korea, Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia, expanding its business throughout Asia.
In addition, Lifeline Skin Care launched a new sales channel to resorts and destination spas.
Looking forward, president and COO, Kurt May, added:"Our focus continues to be on maximizing the performance of our operating subsidiaries, advancing the development and commercialization of our therapeutic products and strengthening our organization and operating systems to accommodate our anticipated rapid and significant growth.”
ISCO, with $2.58 million of cash and equivalents at the end of the quarter, said net loss was narrowed during the period to $2.67 million, or three cents per share, from $3.03 million, or four cents per share, a year earlier.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

International Stem Cell Corporation Announces the Launch of Two New International Sales Initiatives for Lifeline Skin Care

International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB:ISCO) today announced two new international marketing initiatives. The first is the successful conclusion of an agreement in principle to distribute its Lifeline Skin Care product line in the United Arab Emirates via a strategic relationship with noted facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Gregory S. Keller MD of Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, CA. The second is the engagement of Dr. K. McIsaac who will distribute Lifeline's products in Australia and New Zealand under Lifeline's own brand name. These agreements mark the first time that Lifeline Skin Care has distributed its products overseas. Currently, Lifeline Skin Care products are sold in the United States through the Company's website www.lifelineskincare.com.

The UAE represents an attractive market of some 4.3 million people, of which nearly 75% are expatriates. This cosmopolitan market is one of the most urbanized nations in the world with about 88% of its population living in cities. It has one of the highest per capita incomes in the world and an annual GDP growth rate at 8.8%.

"I am excited to introduce Lifeline Skin Care products to the UAE, and I am confident that our customers there will enjoy the same kind of satisfaction with the products as many of my patients in the United States report," said Dr. Keller. "Many of my American patients have been using these products since they were introduced on the market earlier this year, and the results they've seen are amazing."
Dr. Ruslan Semechkin, CEO of Lifeline Skin Care commented: "Dr. Keller has been a faithful supporter of our developmental and commercial efforts in the United States, and he has witnessed the dramatic benefits enjoyed by our customers. We are pleased that he has offered to bring the benefits of Lifeline to the people of UAE.

"In choosing Dr. McIsaac and his marketing team, we believe we will be able to rapidly grow sales and better serve the Australia and New Zealand markets. Dr. McIsaac brings a wealth of experience in direct to consumer sales and marketing. Together these agreements are a key part of our strategy to internationalize our brand."

Lifeline® Skin Care is the only skin care line that is based on human parthenogenetic stem cells that stimulate your skin's own abilities to repair itself. Lifeline products are sold in pairs, including a day cream and a night cream. A complete set is sufficient for one month of regular use.

About International Stem Cell Corporation
International Stem Cell Corporation is focused on the therapeutic applications of human parthenogenetic stem cells (hpSCs) and the development and commercialization of cell-based research and cosmetic products. ISCO's core technology, parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cells from unfertilized oocytes (eggs). hpSCs avoid ethical issues associated with the use or destruction of viable human embryos. ISCO scientists have created the first parthenogenic, homozygous stem cell line that can be a source of therapeutic cells for hundreds of millions of individuals of differing genders, ages and racial background with minimal immune rejection after transplantation. hpSCs offer the potential to create the first true stem cell bank, UniStemCell™. ISCO also produces and markets specialized cells and growth media for therapeutic research worldwide through its subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology, and cell-based skin care products through its subsidiary Lifeline Skin Care. More information is available at www.internationalstemcell.com.

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Forward-looking Statements
Statements pertaining to anticipated developments, potential sales growth and other opportunities for the company and its subsidiaries, along with other statements about the future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans, or prospects expressed by management constitute forward-looking statements. Any statements that are not historical fact (including, but not limited to statements that contain words such as "will," "believes," "plans," "anticipates," "expects," "estimates,") should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, risks inherent in the development and/or commercialization of potential products and the management of collaborations, regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, application of capital resources among competing uses, and maintenance of intellectual property rights. Actual results may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements and as such should be evaluated together with the many uncertainties that affect the company's business, particularly those mentioned in the cautionary statements found in the company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. The company disclaims any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements.

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Seeking Alpha Article: 3 Contenders To Be The First Profitable Stem Cell Company by Ryan Pollock


Seeking Alpha is a stock market news and financial analysis website, including free earnings call transcripts, investment ideas and ETF & stock research written by finance experts. Ryan Pollock recently initiated coverage on International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO).  Although the views and opinions are Mr. Pollock’s own and not necessarily those of ISCO, we thought you would be interested in his insights about our company.

To read the complete article 3 Contenders To Be The First Profitable Stem Cell Company, please click HERE