Encapsulated cell technology: from research to market.

Encapsulated cell technology has the potential to treat a wide range of diseases by the controlled and continuous delivery of biological products to the host. Many biotechnology companies have focused their interest in this technology taking into account the promising pre-clinical and clinical results and the potential clinical market. However, on the long way from clinic to market several issues will have to be addressed, including suitable scientific development, ethical obstacles, government regulations and market forces.