From Cell Therapy Expertise to Corcellys Therapeutics
2026 · COMPANY
Corcellys Therapeutics was created with a clear purpose: to translate years of experience in regenerative medicine and cell therapy into new treatments for severe diseases of the ocular surface.
The company emerged from Nordic Cell Therapy Group (NCTG), founded by Carlos Villaescusa and Michael Wagner Christiansen following the closure of Novo Nordisk's cell therapy activities in 2025. Together, they bring extensive experience in the development of pluripotent stem cell-derived therapies, spanning cell differentiation and manufacturing, analytical development, cryopreservation, non-clinical translation and the path toward clinical development.
Ophthalmology has been an important part of that journey. Work initiated during their years at Novo Nordisk included regenerative approaches for both retinal and corneal diseases. Following the closure of the cell therapy unit, historical data supporting these programs were transferred to NCTG under a formal agreement with Novo Nordisk.
A dedicated company for the cornea
As the corneal program progressed, it became clear that it deserved a company built specifically around its development.
Corcellys Therapeutics was established to provide that focus.
Today, Corcellys is advancing a regenerative cell therapy approach for the ocular surface, beginning with limbal stem cell deficiency — a severe condition in which loss of functional limbal stem cells compromises the cornea's ability to maintain and regenerate its surface.
Our aim is to combine strong stem cell biology with the practical requirements of developing a therapy that can ultimately be manufactured, delivered and used in patients.
Corcellys therefore represents both a new company and the continuation of many years of scientific and translational experience.
A new chapter, built on work that started long before the company had a name.
