A landmark visit by a German delegation led by renowned stem cell expert Prof. Dato’ Sri Dr. Mike Chan has concluded in Baoding, China. The three-day visit, held from July 11-13, 2024, represents a significant step forward in international health collaboration. This visit followed a previous Chinese delegation to Germany in June, which centred on enhancing cooperation in stem cell research, biotechnology, and medical education.
Strengthening International Relations
Prof. Chan, the founder of the European Wellness Biomedical Group (EW Group), is a leading authority in stem cell research. The EW Group has gained global recognition for its advancements in precursor stem cell therapeutics and regenerative medicine.
Since 2018, Prof. Chan has also served as a Senator for the German Federal Association for Economic Development and Foreign Trade (BWA). This role highlights his substantial impact on fostering economic and trade relations between Germany and key Asian countries.
Key Agreements and Collaborations
The visit, orchestrated by Michel Schumann, Chairman of the BWA, resulted in the signing of five critical agreements. These agreements cover various areas, including health and educational cooperation, oral medicine, cell therapy technology, medical rehabilitation, and elderly care. Officials in Baoding, including Municipal Party Committee Secretary Dang Xiaolong, Deputy Secretary and Mayor Yan Jihong, and Meng Qing Yu, Vice-President of Hebei University, extended a warm welcome to the visiting delegation.
During their time in China, the German delegates visited local schools and a children’s hospital. They engaged with students, teachers, and medical professionals, promoting careers in biotechnology and medical research. Chinese officials expressed significant interest in Prof. Chan’s groundbreaking technology. Chan’s innovative approaches to treating conditions like autism, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy.
Advancements in Stem Cell Research
Prof. Chan is noted for his work with targeted organ and brain-specific precursor stem cells, having developed over 400 types. His expertise in this field was a key topic during a significant symposium. Notable attendees included Claus Biermann, Director of the Big Health Committee, Sebastian Schutz, General Manager of the German Federal Pharmaceutical Industry Association, and Prof. Ulrich Joos. An MOU was signed between the European Wellness Biomedical Group and San Zang, marking a commitment to joint stem cell research and educational collaboration.
Partnership
Prof. Chan’s contributions to stem cell research are extensive. With over 50 international patents and more than 50 books and 100 scientific publications to his name, his work is highly regarded. Notable publications include Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine and Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Integrative Approach. Currently, Prof. Chan is collaborating with Heidelberg University on pioneering research into neurodevelopmental diseases. This partnership aims to develop innovative treatments using targeted brain-specific precursor stem cells.
Impact and Future Prospects
The collaboration between Germany and China is set to advance medical science significantly. The partnership is expected to enhance global health standards and pave the way for future advancements in medical education, stem cell research, and traditional Chinese medicine. According to Dang Xiaolong, the visit has resulted in valuable collaborations between academic and medical institutions, strengthening Sino-German relations and offering positive outcomes for both nations. This partnership promises to deliver substantial advancements in treating complex neurological conditions and benefit patients worldwide.
