Stem Cell-Based Treatment Becomes An Innovative Breakthrough To Overcome Various Diseases

Illustration of stem cell development to overcome various diseases (Unsplash)

JAKARTA - In recent years, stem cells or cells have become a topic that is increasingly attracting attention in the health industry, including in Indonesia.

The development of this technology is considered one of the most promising innovations in the health sector, especially in efforts to treat regenerative and therapeutic diseases that were previously difficult to overcome.

With its unique ability to adapt to various types of cells in the body, stem cells have great potential to repair damaged tissues, antiaging, replacing damaged or missing cells, to treating various serious illnesses.

In this case, innovation in the Stem Cell sector also received attention from government institutions such as the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM). Head of BPOM, Taruna Ikrar said stem cell-based medicine can contribute to improving the health level of the community in the country.

"It is very important that we have laid the main foundation for the development of high-quality cell-based medicine," Taruna said in a statement, quoted Thursday, (3/10/2024).

As one of the developers of stem cells and biotechnology innovations, Kalbe has a stem cell production facility that has obtained Good Manufacturing Practices (CPOB) from BPOM since 2014.

This facility, managed by a subsidiary of PT Bifarma Adiluhung (Regenic), is the first facility in Indonesia to obtain CPOB certification for stem cell management.

The company engaged in the health sector is also actively working with BPOM in developing stem cell-based products, including the transfer of stem cell processing facilities to the Kalbe Business Innovation Center in 2021.

"Support from BPOM encourages us to continue to innovate in safe and beneficial stem cell therapeutic products and services for the community. This collaboration is important to facilitate the development of health technology in Indonesia," said President Commissioner of PT Kalbe Farma Tbk, Vidjongtius.

That same year, the company also obtained approval for a UCMSC (Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells)-based drug assessment, which shows sustainable innovation in the field of cell therapy.

In addition to stem cells, the Head of the POM also reviewed the Kalbio Global Medika facility, which focuses on innovation of biological medicinal products. This facility, which was inaugurated in 2018 by President Joko Widodo, has also received CPOB certification.

With its various production facilities, it is hoped that biotechnology innovation related to stem cells can be developed to support the health of the Indonesian people.

Support from various lines is also considered to be able to ensure high safety and quality standards for every health product produced.