Nordic Cell Therapy group
Building the Future of Cell Therapy
Nordic Cell Therapy Group is a specialized cell therapy company providing cell therapy consulting, CMC strategy, analytics, and therapeutic development across the full lifecycle of advanced cell therapiesWe support biotech companies, academic groups, and industry partners in advancing cell therapy programs from early discovery to clinical and commercial readiness.Our expertise spans scientific strategy, process and CMC development, analytical solutions, and therapeutic innovation, grounded in real-world experience from complex cell therapy programs.We have contributed to the design, development, and advancement of cell-based therapies, helping partners navigate key challenges in development, scalability, and translation to the clinic.Through three complementary divisions, Consulting, Analytics, and Ventures, we combine external collaboration with internal therapeutic development to accelerate the next generation of regenerative medicines.Our three divisions reflect this integrated approach to cell therapy consulting, analytics, and therapeutic development
Strategic guidance for cell therapy development
Analytical solutions for cell therapies
Developing next-generation cell therapies
Nordic Cell Therapy Group Aps, a Danish private limited company
(CVR-nummer 46007441).
Collaborations & Activities
CRISPRMed Conference - April 13th - 16th, Copenhagen, DenmarkParticipation in the CRISPRMed conference, contributing to discussions on the integration of biology, manufacturing, and regulatory strategy in advanced therapies, and engaging with the international cell and gene therapy ecosystem.
BioSpectrum Coverage - 24/MAR/2026Coverage in BioSpectrum highlighting the Memorandum of Understanding between Nordic Cell Therapy Group and Nucelion Therapeutics, supporting collaboration in advanced cell therapy development.
Børsen Feature - 20/MAR/2026Featured in Børsen, Denmark’s leading financial newspaper, highlighting the founding of Nordic Cell Therapy Group and its focus on advancing cell therapy programs, consultancy services, and therapeutic innovation.
Biologics World Nordics Conference - March 18th - 19th, Stockholm, SwedenParticipation in the Biologics World Nordics conference, engaging with industry stakeholders on cell therapy development, ATMP strategy, and collaboration opportunities.
Collaboration between Nucelion and Nordic Cell Therapy Group - 10/MAR/2026Memorandum of Understanding with Nucelion Therapeutics to explore collaboration opportunities in cell therapy, focusing on the exchange of expertise and evaluation of joint activities supporting the development and translation of advanced therapy programs.
Collaboration between ClexBio and Nordic Cell Therapy Group - 13/FEB/2026Collaboration with ClexBio to support the advancement of the VivoSet™ platform, contributing expertise in scalable cell therapy development and CMC strategy as the program progresses toward GMP and clinical application.
TheRegenReport - 22/JAN/2026Mention in TheRegenReport highlighting Nordic Cell Therapy Group within the broader context of recent developments in the cell therapy field.
Strategic Expertise in Cell Therapy Development
Nordic Cell Therapy Consulting provides specialized scientific and strategic expertise across the development of advanced cell therapies, from early discovery to CMC and translational strategy to clinical development and regulatory planning.Our work is grounded in real-world experience.
We have actively contributed to the design, development, and advancement of cell therapy programs, working at the interface of biology, process development, and clinical translation.We engage in focused, high-impact advisory collaborations, supporting biotech companies, investors, and research organizations in addressing critical scientific and development challenges across the cell therapy lifecycle.
Turning cell therapy innovation into reality
We collaborate with innovators, biotechs, big pharma and academic teams to guide cell-based therapies from discovery toward clinical application combining scientific precision, development know-how, and social purpose to move these treatments closer to patients.Nordic Cell Therapy Group — Science guided by experience
Who we are
Nordic Cell Therapy Group unites experienced scientists and industry leaders and and senior consultants dedicated to advancing the field of cell therapy.With decades of combined experience from discovery to commercialization, we bridge the full development continuum, from pluripotent stem cell biology, process and protocol design, and preclinical development to GMP manufacturing and upscaling, regulatory affairs, and market access.Our collective expertise covers every stage of cell therapy development: scientific innovation, process engineering, automation, delivery devices and formulations, non-clinical development, and CMC strategies. We have led and supported programs across multiple therapeutic areas and built productive collaborations between academia, biotech, and industry.We are driven by a shared purpose, to accelerate the translation of cell-based discoveries into safe, effective, and accessible therapies for patients worldwide
our expertise
We provide end-to-end consulting in cell therapy, guiding projects from discovery and process design to clinical and commercial readiness.Our team brings together deep scientific insight and practical development experience across all aspects of cell-based product creation. We support biotech companies, academic groups, and investors in building strong translational strategies, and scalable manufacturing solutions. All geared towards creating value by ensuring reproducibility, robustness, reduced COGS, speed and regulatory compliance.Our expertise spans pluripotent stem cell biology, differentiation and potency assay development, CMC process and analytics, non-clinical validation, regulatory affairs, and commercialization strategy. Whether shaping early research decisions or optimizing late-stage programs, we help our clients turn promising science into tangible therapies for patients.
executive management
Carlos Villaescusa
Co-Founder, CEO & CSOCarlos Villaescusa is a stem cell biologist and R&D leader with over 20 years of international experience in regenerative medicine, developmental biology, and translational research. At Novo Nordisk Cell Therapy R&D, Carlos served as Head of Department and Research Project Director, guiding multidisciplinary teams and building collaborations that bridged science, CMC, and regulatory strategy. He has led programs across cardiovascular, ophthalmology, hearing loss, and neurodegenerative diseases, advancing pluripotent stem cell–based therapies from discovery to preclinical development. Earlier in his career, he established and directed the Stem Cell and Organoid Core Facility at Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, supporting both academic and industrial research in organoid and iPSC technologies. His expertise spans pluripotent stem cell biology, cell differentiation and assay development, and translational development of advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs).Driven by a commitment to accelerate the translation of cell-based innovations into therapies that improve patients’ lives, combining scientific depth with a pragmatic understanding of development and manufacturing realities.
Michael Wagner Christiansen
Co-Founder, CTOMichael Wagner Christiansen is a cell therapy development specialist with over a decade of experience bridging research, process development, and GMP manufacturing in the field of advanced therapies. As Associate Project Director at Novo Nordisk Cell Therapy R&D, Michael has led cross-functional teams responsible for translating laboratory innovation into scalable, compliant, and clinically ready manufacturing processes. His expertise spans 2D & 3D process development, GMP manufacturing and facility requirements, with deep knowledge of regulatory interactions, CMC strategy planning, and technology transfer. Prior to joining Novo Nordisk, he held scientific and engineering roles in both R&D and manufacturing environments.Combines scientific depth with a pragmatic, solutions-driven mindset, helping organizations navigate the complex interface between research and manufacturing to deliver robust, reproducible, and patient-ready cell therapy products.
strategic advisory board
Allan E. Karlsen
Strategic Advisor, Stem Cell Biology & Translational ResearchAllan E. Karlsen has served as Vice President and Head of Stem Cell Research at Novo Nordisk, with over 30 years of leadership experience spanning diabetes biology, regenerative medicine, and translational research. Former Corporate Vice President of the Hagedorn Research Institute and Adjunct Professor at Lund University. Deep expertise in driving innovation from molecular biology to clinical application and building international research collaborations.
Sofia Håkansson Buch
Strategic Advisor, CMC & Manufacturing StrategySofia Håkansson Buch has served as Vice President for Cell Therapy CMC at Novo Nordisk, with nearly 20 years of experience in biopharmaceutical development and manufacturing. Extensive leadership background covering recombinant protein technologies, process development, and production across mammalian and yeast systems. Responsible for establishing and leading global CMC and manufacturing strategies for stem cell–based therapies, bridging research to clinical manufacturing. Deep expertise in process translation, scale-up, and quality systems for advanced therapies.
Tanja Villumsen
Strategic Advisor, Clinical Operations & Supply StrategyTanja Villumsen has served as Head of Clinical Supplies for Cell Therapy CMC at Novo Nordisk, bringing over a decade of expertise at the intersection of clinical operations, regulatory affairs, and pharmaceutical supply strategy. Tanja has spearheaded development of clinical supply chains for stem cell–based therapies, integrating CMC and clinical development to enable first-in-human studies. Her background spans the Danish life science sector and multiple governance roles. She serves on the boards of Pharmadanmark, PFA, and LASA, and contributes to advisory boards at Copenhagen Business School and the University of Copenhagen.
Equality, Inclusion & Ethical Conduct
At Nordic Cell Therapy Group, we are committed to a respectful and inclusive working environment for all.
We do not tolerate discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, ethnicity, nationality, age, or disability.We value professionalism, integrity, and mutual respect in every collaboration, and we ensure equal opportunities and fair treatment for everyone we work with, internally and externally.As we engage with partners around the world, we uphold universal principles of human dignity, ethical conduct, and responsible science.
Our Symbol
The logo of Nordic Cell Therapy Group unites science, medicine, and mythology into one emblem.
At its center lies a cluster of cells evoking the morula, the first form of new life, representing both origin and potential. Surrounding it, the serpent coiled about the staff of Asclepius embodies healing, wisdom, and transformation, while its forward motion conveys progress and protection.In Nordic mythology, the serpent also recalls Jörmungandr, the Midgard Serpent, encircling the earth, a symbol of balance, resilience, and renewal.Together, these elements express our mission: to advance regenerative medicine through knowledge, integrity, and the power of collaboration.The deep green-blue color reflects growth and regeneration, echoing the natural harmony between science and life that defines our work.
Copenhagen, 2300, Denmark
Nordic Cell Therapy Group Aps, a Danish private limited company
(CVR-nummer 46007441).
Courses & Insights
We offer a selection of specialized courses and expert insights focused on key challenges in cell therapy development.These materials are designed to provide structured, experience-driven perspectives across scientific, technical, and strategic areas, supporting professionals working in cell therapy, biotechnology, and related fields.Rather than prescriptive solutions, our insights highlight critical considerations and common challenges, helping inform decision-making and guide further development efforts.
FREE EXPERT seminar - Cell therapy product development - April 30, 2026
FREE EXPERT seminar - Cell therapy product development
Bringing a cell therapy from the lab to the clinic is a complex, high risk journey, many promising programs fail along the way.
This free, one hour online expert seminar offers a clear, end to end overview of what it takes to develop a cell therapy product fit for patients.
The session covers in high-level the entire cell therapy value chain, from early research decisions to late stage development considerations. While the seminar primarily draws on experience with pluripotent stem cell–derived products, the principles and considerations discussed are broadly applicable across cell therapy modalities. Participants will be guided through each stage of product development, including:• The purpose and expected outcomes of each development phase.
• Common risks, pitfalls, and failure points.The seminar is presented by experts with close to 20 years of combined experience in cell therapy product development within big pharma, providing practical grounded in real-world programs and hard-earned lessons. The seminar concludes with a brief live Q&A session, allowing participants to discuss questions and specific challenges.Target audience:
• Researchers and academic scientists working in stem cell and cell therapy.
• Professionals in start ups and biotech companies at early or mid development stages.
• Teams who have begun the development journey but have not yet taken a product all the way to patients.
• Anyone curious about what it really takes to turn a promising cell therapy idea into a clinical grade product.Course dates (two alternative options):
30th of April 2026,
• 9-10 am CET
• 3-4 pm CETFree of charge (registration required)
Registration form
Due to limited capacity, registration is subject to confirmation.
core expert associates
Ida KjærSenior Consultant and CMC specialist with extensive experience in quality systems, raw materials, and late-stage process development for cell-based therapies. Ida has led risk-based raw material management and phase-appropriate GMP strategies, including donor eligibility assessment under Good Tissue Practice (GTP), QMS implementation, and formulation and packaging system design to ensure product integrity and clinical readiness.
Tristan ThwaitesSenior Consultant in cell and gene therapy development with over 15 years of experience advancing genome-edited and stem cell–based products from research to clinical translation. Tristan brings deep expertise in CRISPR, gene editing platform design, and CMC-readiness, having led large cross-functional teams spanning R&D, manufacturing, and regulatory domains in both biotech and pharma. His work bridges scientific innovation and strategic execution, enabling next-generation hypoimmune and allogeneic therapies to reach patients safely and efficiently.
Jan LyngeSenior Consultant in cell therapy development with experience advancing stem cell–derived therapies from early research through clinical stage, including First-in-Human studies. Strong expertise in clinical development strategy and ATMP regulatory pathways, ensuring alignment with global requirements.
Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and integrate translational medicine, clinical pharmacology, and regulatory strategy into cohesive development plans. Experienced in supporting business development, due diligence, and portfolio prioritization to strengthen pipeline value.
Elizabeth Engenheiro KristiansenSenior Consultant in intellectual property strategy with more than 17 years of experience advising life science organisations on patent protection, portfolio development, and freedom-to-operate for innovative therapeutic platforms. Elizabeth has supported intellectual property strategy across cell and gene therapy, stem-cell engineering, and enabling technologies, guiding patent drafting and prosecution, cross-functional risk assessments, and collaboration agreements between industry and academia to secure long-term competitive positioning.
Chao ShengSenior Consultant with over 17 years of experience across the global ATMP ecosystem, spanning academia, biotech, and CDMO environments. Chao brings strong expertise in ATMP market analysis, product strategy, and value proposition development, combining scientific depth in cell and molecular biology with commercial insight. His work bridges technical innovation and strategic positioning, supporting the successful translation of emerging cell and gene therapy technologies.
Elhem SbaaSenior Consultant in regulatory affairs with over 17 years of experience across clinical and CMC strategy for biologics, ATMPs, and medical devices. Elhem brings deep expertise in regulatory pathways for advanced therapies, having supported development programs from early-stage strategy through clinical translation and market authorization. She has held leadership roles in biotech and CRO environments, including establishing and leading regulatory affairs functions, and has contributed to the development of ATMPs in Europe and US, including work on one of the first approved products. Her background combines extensive regulatory insight with over a decade of research experience in stem cell therapy and tissue engineering, combination products, diagnostic products, enabling a strong bridge between scientific development and regulatory execution.
Joachim HjelmSenior Consultant with broad experience in global drug development and strategy across cell therapies, biologics, peptides, and combination products.
Joachim brings more than two decades of experience defining regulatory pathways and engaging with health authorities in the EU, US, and other key regions worldwide, including senior roles at Novo Nordisk, Ferring, and Lundbeck. His expertise includes CTA/IND requirements, expedited pathways, orphan drug designations, and development-stage guidance across multiple therapeutic areas including endocrinology, cardiology, respiratory, and psychiatry.
Eric ThwaitesSenior Consultant with over 20 years of experience in biopharma and cell-based therapy development, spanning CMC strategy, manufacturing, and global commercialization. Eric played a key role in bringing the world’s first allogeneic mesenchymal stem cell therapy (Alofisel®) to market and has led global manufacturing and supply chain strategy at Takeda and Novo Nordisk. His expertise includes process development, technology transfer, due diligence, and life-cycle management for advanced therapy products.
Kan KanekoConsultant with extensive experience in device and delivery strategies for cell-based therapies. Kan has a strong background in formulation development, combination-product testing, and optimization of administration parameters from preclinical to translational stages. His work bridges the interface between cells, materials, and devices, ensuring robust delivery, stability, and usability of advanced therapy products.
Anna DrozdConsultant with expertise in raw materials strategy and qualification for cell-based therapies.
Anna brings extensive experience in early evaluation, risk assessment, and supplier collaboration for cellular starting materials, excipients, and plastics. Her work bridges material science and regulatory expectations, ensuring phase-appropriate compliance and robust partnerships that strengthen advanced therapy manufacturing.
Peter OverbyConsultant with broad expertise in diabetes, metabolism, and stem cell–based therapies. Peter has extensive hands-on experience with rodent models, preclinical efficacy studies, and translational assessments of novel therapeutic approaches, including cell and device-based transplantation models. His background bridges metabolic disease biology, immunology, and in vivo pharmacology, supporting non-clinical development and cross-functional project execution from discovery to IND-enabling stages.
extended expert network
Beyond the core team, the Nordic Cell Therapy Group is supported by an extended network of over 30 experienced professionals covering the full spectrum of cell therapy development, from discovery and process engineering to clinical, regulatory, and commercial translation. This network includes former industry, academic, and CDMO specialists who can be engaged on demand, allowing Nordic Cell Therapy Group to rapidly assemble tailored teams for each project and provide end-to-end expertise across all stages of advanced therapy development.
Join Our Expert Network !!!
We are always looking to connect with talented professionals who share our passion for advancing cell therapy.
If you have expertise in CMC, regulatory affairs, analytics, clinical translation, or related areas and want to help shape the future of regenerative medicine... we would love to hear from you!!!
Use the contact form to tell us about your background and what motivates you to be part of the consultancy arm of the Nordic Cell Therapy Group.
Our consultancy services
Every project is different. With our consultancy services, we adapt to your needs, helping you turn scientific vision into clinical reality.
Translational Strategy & Program DesignFrom concept to clinical planWe help transform scientific discoveries into structured development programs.
Our team supports early-stage projects in defining translational objectives, critical experiments, and milestones that align with clinical and regulatory expectations.
We bring hands-on experience from multiple cell-therapy programs to ensure each step builds toward a viable therapeutic product.protocol design · pluripotent stem-cell biology · differentiation workflows · potency assays · in vivo pharmacology · biomarker strategy · regulatory scientific advice meetings
Process Development & CMC StrategyBridging science and manufacturingWe guide clients in developing scalable, reproducible, robust, and GMP compliant manufacturing processes, with focus on reducing COGS. Based on the Quality by Design approach, we can help you define your Quality Target Product Profile, Critical Quality Attributes, release specifications, raw material risk assessments, and the overall product risk assessment. We can help design your analytical qualification programs, including writing protocols and reports, and if
needed execute the study on your behalf. Whether your ambitions are fast to first human dose or fast to market, we can guide your strategies accordingly. We ensure that your production platform is ready for clinical and regulatory scrutiny.process design · 2D & 3D upscaling · formulation & cryopreservation · raw-material strategy · QA / QMS · CDMO selection & oversight · delivery device
Non-Clinical & Regulatory GuidanceDe-risking the path to first-in-humanWe design and interpret non-clinical studies that demonstrate safety, potency, and mechanism of action. Our consultants help translate data into regulatory-ready packages and align study plans with global requirements. We also support clients in preparing regulatory documentation and engaging effectively with authorities.study design · histology · pharmacology · CRO selection · IND / CTA strategy · regulatory documentation · biomarker integration
Clinical & Operational SupportFrom the lab to the clinical siteWe help coordinate the first steps of clinical implementation, ensuring alignment between CMC, regulatory, and clinical teams.
Our services include all steps from clinical trial design to clinical supply mapping and coordination, as well as final qualification of the on-site dosing process. We will ensure that your secondary endpoints, stopping rules and follow-up programs are compliant with regulators expectations. We work closely with CDMOs and clinical partners to maintain quality and consistency through every stage.site initiation & dosing support · person-in-plant supervision · due diligence · trial design · clinical supply · risk management · quality monitoring
Intellectual Property & Business DevelopmentTurning science into sustainable impactWe assist companies and academic spin-offs in building partnerships, communicating with investors, and planning for long-term growth.
Our team combines scientific insight with strategic perspective to help position your technology for clinical and commercial success.patents · business strategy · partnerships · market positioning · investor communication
Emerging TechnologiesPreparing for what comes nextInnovation drives progress in cell therapy. We help clients evaluate and integrate new technologies, from genome engineering and device development to automation and data-driven manufacturing, always with quality and compliance in mind.genome editing · automation · device integration · combination products
ready to collaborate?
Let’s accelerate the future of cell therapy together.→ Contact us to discuss how our expertise can support your program
Advanced Analytical Solutions for Cell Therapies
Nordic Cell Therapy Analytics focuses on the development and application of advanced analytical tools to support the characterization, quality control, and development of cell-based therapies.Cell therapies require robust and meaningful analytical strategies to ensure identity, safety, potency, and consistency. We combine deep biological understanding with practical development experience to design assays and analytical frameworks adapted to the unique challenges of living medicines.Through analytical innovation and collaboration with partners across academia and industry, we aim to strengthen the scientific foundation supporting next-generation cell therapies.
Available Assays
Beyond the assays currently offered, we work closely with partners to address specific analytical challenges that arise during the development of cell-based therapies.Each program presents unique biological and technical questions, and in many cases existing analytical approaches may need to be adapted or newly developed. Through collaborative engagement with our partners, we support the design and implementation of tailored analytical strategies and assays aligned with the specific needs of each project.
Platform for identifying stage-specific biomarkers and translating them into robust in-process control parameters for cell therapy manufacturing.
One-time assessment of selected hPSC lines to identify genetic risks and support informed selection of clinical candidates.
Custom Analytical Development
Beyond the assays currently offered, we work closely with partners to address specific analytical challenges that arise during the development of cell-based therapies.Each program presents unique biological and technical questions, and in many cases existing analytical approaches may need to be adapted or newly developed. Through collaborative engagement with our partners, we support the design and implementation of tailored analytical strategies and assays aligned with the specific needs of each project.
In-Process Control (IPC) Platform
We develop in-process control (IPC) strategies based on the identification of stage-dependent biomarkers that reflect the progression and quality of cell differentiation and expansion processes.Reliable IPCs are critical for monitoring complex cell culture systems, enabling early detection of deviations and improving process consistency. By integrating meaningful IPC parameters early in development, it becomes possible to generate process-specific knowledge that supports optimization, scalability, and transition to GMP manufacturing.Cell therapy manufacturing processes are inherently variable, and the absence of robust IPCs can lead to batch failure, increased costs, and regulatory challenges. Implementing well-defined IPC strategies helps improve process control, reduce risk, and ensure more efficient use of time and resources, particularly in processes involving long culture times and costly media.Our IPC platform leverages advanced analytical approaches, including high-content molecular profiling techniques, to identify relevant biomarkers. Our approach combines advanced analytical methodologies with practical development experience to define IPC frameworks tailored to each specific process.
We welcome discussions with partners interested in applying these assays to their specific programs.Each project presents unique scientific and technical challenges, and we work closely with our partners to define the most relevant analytical approach, scope, and level of support. Whether applying existing assays or developing tailored solutions, we aim to provide practical and actionable insights aligned with your development needs.
Starting Material Genetic Assessment
We provide a comprehensive assessment of human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) lines to support the selection of suitable starting material for cell therapy development. The assessment is performed at an early development stage, prior to cell banking, to ensure that only well-characterized and suitable lines are advanced.This assay package is designed to evaluate genetic features of candidate cell lines at an early stage, prior to master cell bank (MCB) generation. The analysis focuses on identifying potential risks associated with oncogenic alterations and disease-related genetic predispositions that could impact safety or downstream development.The choice of starting material is one of the most critical and irreversible decisions in cell therapy development. Undetected genetic liabilities at this stage can compromise product safety, influence clinical outcomes, or lead to costly delays later in development.Early identification of such risks enables more informed decision-making, reduces downstream uncertainty, and contributes to a stronger and more robust foundation for clinical and regulatory progression.Our approach integrates advanced genomic analysis with a practical understanding of cell therapy development to deliver actionable insights tailored to each program.
We welcome discussions with partners interested in applying these assays to their specific programs.Each project presents unique scientific and technical challenges, and we work closely with our partners to define the most relevant analytical approach, scope, and level of support. Whether applying existing assays or developing tailored solutions, we aim to provide practical and actionable insights aligned with your development needs.
discuss your analytical needs
We welcome discussions with partners interested in applying or adapting our analytical approaches to their specific programs.Please share a brief description of your project or challenge, and we will follow up to explore how we can support your development needs.
Developing Next-Generation Regenerative Medicines
Nordic Cell Therapy Ventures is our R&D arm dedicated to the development of innovative cell-based therapies aimed at addressing serious diseases with limited treatment options.Our programs focus on regenerative medicine and the therapeutic potential of stem cell–derived products. By combining scientific insight, translational expertise, and strategic development approaches, we aim to advance new therapies toward clinical application.Through internal programs and collaborations with leading research groups and industry partners, we work to transform advances in cell biology into meaningful therapeutic solutions.
Advancing the Next Generation of Cell TherapiesIn parallel with our consulting and analytic activities, Nordic Cell Therapy Ventures is actively developing proprietary regenerative medicine programs.
Our internal R&D efforts build on years of experience in pluripotent stem cell biology, differentiation, and translational development, with a focus on diseases where cell replacement can bring meaningful patient benefit.While details of our ongoing projects remain confidential for now, our team is pursuing first-in-class cell-based approaches that address areas of high unmet medical need. Each program integrates scientific innovation with pragmatic development planning from process design to non-clinical evaluation and regulatory strategy.Our R&D group currently includes a dedicated team of scientists and project leaders with expertise spanning discovery biology, CMC, and translational development. Together, we aim to transform advanced stem-cell concepts into future therapeutic solutions.Science in motion — advancing tomorrow’s therapies, today
Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency (LSCD) Program
LSCD is a rare but devastating condition in which the limbal epithelial stem cells, responsible for maintaining and regenerating the corneal surface, are lost or dysfunctional. Patients experience chronic pain, recurrent epithelial breakdown, inflammation, and progressive loss of vision. Severe cases, including those affecting both eyes, often leave individuals with no effective long-term treatment options.Advances in regenerative medicine are opening new possibilities for restoring the integrity and function of the ocular surface. At the Nordic Cell Therapy Group, we are committed to translating these possibilities into meaningful therapeutic solutions.
Our ApproachNordic Cell Therapy R&D is developing a next-generation limbal stem cell–based therapy designed to restore corneal epithelial regeneration in patients with LSCD. Our approach builds on three pillars:1. State-of-the-art stem cell biology.
2. Translational expertise across preclinical research, CMC, and regulatory strategy.
3. A rigorous development framework focusing on safety, reproducibility, and scalability.Our LSCD program is currently in pre-clinical development, where we are establishing the foundational scientific work needed to advance toward future clinical translation.
Program StatusThe LSCD program has reached a stage of pre-clinical maturity, supported by ongoing in vitro studies and early exploratory in vivo activities. Future work will focus on:¤ Optimizing the cell therapy product and process.
¤ Advancing translational models.
¤ Preparing for CMC and regulatory readiness.
¤ Building the partnerships required for clinical progression.We pursue this development with a strong commitment to scientific integrity, patient needs, and responsible innovation.
Partner With UsNordic Cell Therapy R&D welcomes collaboration with clinicians, research groups, foundations, and investors who share our vision of enabling new therapeutic options for LSCD.
To explore partnership, scientific collaboration, or support for this program, please contact us.
Further Reading & Resources
Contributors
Our research and development initiatives are supported by a group of experienced scientists who have previously worked together on pluripotent stem cell–based programs.
They bring complementary expertise in cell biology, process development, and translational research, strengthening Nordic Cell Therapy Groups’s ability to design and evaluate next-generation regenerative therapies.
Andreas WronaSenior Scientist with broad experience in cell therapy research and development, combining expertise in stem cell differentiation, proteomics, and image-based analysis. Over eight years in Cell Therapy developing stem cell–derived therapies for ophthalmology and cardiology, with a focus on assay design, biomarker discovery, and translational support.
Dmitry PenkovSenior Scientist with 15+ years of experience building human iPSC-based platforms for translational cell therapy. Expert in iPSC differentiation, functional genomics, CRISPR-based target validation, and cell-based assay development, including potency and release testing. Proven ability to advance programs from biological hypothesis to development-ready assets in cross-functional environments.
Signe FrazierScientist with expertise in neural stem cells, neuronal differentiation, and extracellular vesicles for neurodegenerative disorders. Signe recently completed her PhD with Novo Nordisk and the University of Copenhagen, focusing on neural stem cell–derived exosomes and their therapeutic potential in neurodegeneration.
They collaborate with Nordic Cell Therapy Group on a project basis as independent professionals, contributing voluntarily to our early R&D programs.
Join us in advancing these programs
Be Part of the Future of Cell TherapyAt Nordic Cell Therapy Group, we are advancing innovative research programs that aim to make cell-based therapies a reality for patients.
While our consultancy drives progress across the field, our internal R&D arm focuses on developing next-generation regenerative treatments in areas of high unmet medical need.If you share our vision and wish to support one of our research programs, please reach out to discuss how your contribution can make a measurable impact.Together, we can help shape the future of cell therapy. One breakthrough at a time.
Investors & Strategic Partners
Advancing Next-Generation Cell TherapiesNordic Cell Therapy Development is advancing innovative cell-based therapy programs targeting areas of high unmet medical need.Our current focus includes the development of a limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) program, aiming to restore vision through standardized, off-the-shelf cell therapy approaches.We are building these programs on a foundation of deep scientific expertise, translational experience, and a clear strategy toward clinical development.We welcome discussions with investors and strategic partners interested in supporting and advancing our therapeutic programs. Engagement can take multiple forms, including early-stage investment, co-development, or strategic collaboration.If you are interested in learning more about our programs and exploring potential opportunities, we would be pleased to connect.→ Contact us to discuss investment and partnership opportunities
Contact
We welcome inquiries from investors, partners, clinicians, and individuals interested in our therapeutic programs.Please share your interest or question, and we will follow up to explore how we can connect or provide further information.
Contact
Ready to collaborate?
The path to cell therapy is long. We help you cross it with clarity, experience, and purpose.
Together, we connect science, strategy, and execution to bring therapies closer to patients.
Use the form below to reach out — we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Copenhagen, 2300, Denmark
Nordic Cell Therapy Group Aps, a Danish private limited company
(CVR-nummer 46007441).
Contact
Ready to collaborate?
The path to cell therapy is long. We help you cross it with clarity, experience, and purpose.
Together, we connect science, strategy, and execution to bring therapies closer to patients.
Use the form below to reach out — we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
FAQ — Nordic Cell Therapy Group
What types of projects do you support?We focus exclusively on cell therapy. Across our divisions, we support biotech companies, start-ups, and academic groups in developing cell-based products — from scientific strategy and assay development to CMC, translational planning, and therapeutic program development. Each engagement is tailored to the specific stage and needs of the project.What is your main goal?Our goal is to accelerate the development of cell therapies for the benefit of patients.We aim to translate scientific innovation into robust and scalable therapeutic approaches, combining strategic expertise, analytical capabilities, and internal development programs.Are your consulting and therapeutic programs separate?Yes. Our consulting activities and internal therapeutic programs operate independently to avoid conflicts of interest.Our consulting team focuses exclusively on supporting partners, while our development division advances proprietary programs under strict confidentiality and ethical standards.How do you typically start working with a new partner?We begin with an initial discussion to understand your scientific and strategic objectives. Based on this, we define a focused scope of work, including priorities, timelines, and deliverables. Our approach is collaborative, structured, and transparent throughout the engagement.Do you offer customized analytical or assay development?Yes. In addition to defined analytical offerings, we work closely with partners to develop tailored analytical strategies and assays adapted to specific cell types, processes, and development challenges.How is your pricing structured?We offer flexible collaboration models, including hourly consulting, defined project scopes, and retainer-based engagements for ongoing support. All terms are agreed in advance, with clear expectations and transparency.Do you sign NDAs?Yes. Protecting confidential information and intellectual property is fundamental to how we work. We routinely operate under mutual non-disclosure agreements and treat all discussions with strict confidentiality.Do you work only with established companies?No. We work with organizations at all stages, from early academic projects to established biotech companies. Our role is to support the transition from research to structured development and clinical readiness.Do you engage with investors or strategic partners?Yes. In addition to supporting external partners, we actively develop internal therapeutic programs and engage with investors and strategic collaborators interested in advancing these initiatives.