RepliCel Results to Be Released in Q1 2012
Hi Dr. Rassman,
I was wondering if you had read the recent posting concerning Replicel’s technology and initial results that will be released Q12012.
Link: RepliCel’s cell-based solution to hair loss
The reason that I ask this question is to see if you had any ideas or guesses as to who (of the companies performing research in this area) might have the best odds of delivering a viable solution? I had heard that a few of the companies presented at ISHRS-Alaska and it appears they realized the initial approach (followed during the past 5-10 years) was the wrong route. Aderans is using the dermal papilla cells while RepliCel is employing the dermal sheath cup to produce the replicated cells for later injection into the patient’s scalp. Guess that we will have to wait until Feb. 2012 for the clinical trial results. One good sign is that they filed their protocols on the FDA website which allows their approach/results to be a bit more “transparent”.
Thanks for bringing this to our attention! This is a good read for our audience.
I really have no best guess as to which path will be the most successful, but like everyone else, I’m hoping at least one of the paths turns out to be successful. The more proven treatments available for those with hair loss, the better. I guess we’ll know more early next year when the early results are released, though the article says the study won’t conclude until August 2013.
One other factor to consider – since it is autogolous treatement then the cost of testing the safety/efficacy is drastically reduced. Additionally, there is a chance that RepliCel and Aderans will not be held to the same degree/rigor of testing since it is autogolous. It all hinges on the outcome of a company (based in Colorado) who is currently suing the FDA regarding this very issue. RepliCel has indicated that they plan on starting the efficacy trials in Fall 2012 either in Europe, Canada or U.S.
I really really hope this works
And it failed…Miserably. :(