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Cover: dermatological examination of atopic skin

ADSTEM inj.: EHL Bio's stem cell drug for atopic dermatitis

Autologous adipose MSC, given intravenously, phase 1 done and phase 2 running

Quick answer

ADSTEM inj. is EHL Bio's cell drug using the patient's own adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells, given as two intravenous infusions, targeting moderate-to-severe subacute and chronic atopic dermatitis. Phase 1 finished in 2017 and the product was approved into phase 2, run at Chung-Ang University Hospital and five other sites.

Key facts

Product
ADSTEM inj.
Cell type
Autologous adipose MSC
Target indication
Moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis
Administration
IV infusion, two doses
Research status
Phase 1 completed 2017, phase 2 ongoing

Why atopic dermatitis is hard to treat

Atopic dermatitis arises from genetics such as filaggrin gene mutation combined with environmental triggers and immune dysregulation, damaging the skin barrier and driving chronic inflammation. Standard care is topical steroids, immunosuppressants and newer biologics.

Rebalancing immunity with stem cells

The rationale is immune rebalancing. EHL reports that after infusion, regulatory T cells increase and the Th1/Th2 balance is restored, correlating with symptom improvement.

Where the phase 2 trial stands

Regulatory-wise, the company describes ADSTEM as Korea's first phase 2 trial of intravenously administered autologous adipose stem cells — meaning it follows the same drug approval pathway as conventional medicines, not a cosmetic service route.

What Thai patients should understand first

Thai patients should understand this remains investigational and is not a generally registered medicine, so access depends on trial criteria or specific hospital programmes. Discuss it with your treating dermatologist before planning travel.

Frequently asked questions

  • Can ADSTEM cure atopic dermatitis?

    There is no evidence of a cure. The trial goal is reducing severity and inflammation; skin care and prescribed medication continue alongside.

  • How many infusions are needed?

    The ADSTEM protocol specifies two repeat intravenous doses, spaced per protocol.

  • Is it suitable for children?

    Trials define eligible age ranges precisely and young children are usually excluded. Check inclusion criteria directly with the study team.

  • How does it differ from biologics like dupilumab?

    Biologics block one defined inflammatory pathway and are already approved; stem cells act through broad immunomodulation and remain investigational.

Medical cautions

5 points • reviewed 2026-08-28

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  • This article is educational information only — not a diagnosis, prescription, or personal medical advice.
  • Outcomes vary by person, depending on age, underlying conditions, current medication, and the treating doctor's technique.
  • Consult a licensed physician and verify the clinic's licence before deciding on any treatment.
  • Some treatments (certain stem cell therapies in particular) are regulated differently by country — check Thai and Korean rules before travelling.
  • Prices, packages, and service details can change — confirm directly with the provider before paying.

Reviewed and last updated: 2026-08-28

References and sources

10 sources • every claim is traceable

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  1. 1. EHL Bio — company introduction

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/company/about/

  2. 2. EHL Bio — company history

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/company/history/

  3. 3. EHL Bio — GMP centre

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/rd/gmp/

  4. 4. EHL Bio — stem cell therapeutics pipeline

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/rd/institute/

  5. 5. EHL Bio — patents and research papers

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/rd/patent/

  6. 6. EHL Bio — EHL-STEM conditioned media

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/conditioned/

  7. 7. EHL Bio — immune cells

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/immune_cell/

  8. 8. EHL Bio — target diseases

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/cure/index/

  9. 9. EHL Bio — locations and contact

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/company/contact/

  10. 10. Original article on khunkim.com (pre-migration)

    https://www.ehlbio.co.kr/cure/atopic/

Browse the full reference library →

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Last updated: 2026-08-28 · This content is for information only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified doctor before making treatment decisions.

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