Canopus BioPharma has recently identified CB1798 as a potential stem cell expansion agent, providing a superior alternative to the current growth factor bFGF (basic fibroblast growth factor). Canopus has analysed CB1798 on three mesenchymal stem cell cultures isolated from two umbilical cord tissues and one bone marrow sample.
Further experiments are underway to examine the neurogenic, adipogenic and osteogenic potential of the cells after incubation with CB1798, following which CB1798 will have a place in the large market for stem cell supporting technologies valued at $3.7 billion in 2007 ($7.8 billion in 2012).
Canopus currently has patents pending for the use of CB1798 in culture medium as a stem cell proliferation agent.