International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) Stock Analysis
For informational purposes only. Not financial advice. Analysis by Sedat ANAK, Founder & Editor-in-Chief | AI-powered analysis. Data sourced from SEC filings and institutional-grade financial providers. Editorially reviewed. Not financial advice.
International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) trades at $0.45 with AI Score 51/100 (Grade B). International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) is a clinical-stage biotechnology firm focused on developing therapeutic and biomedical solutions derived from proprietary human… Market cap: $3.60M, Sector: Healthcare.
Price as of Aug 21, 2026 · Last analyzed: Jun 15, 2026Analyst Coverage for ISCO: ISCO does not currently have published analyst price targets in our coverage universe. This is common for smaller-cap names with limited Wall Street coverage. In the absence of analyst consensus, our AI model evaluates ISCO against Healthcare peers across nine fundamental dimensions and assigns a mixed fundamental profile based on the underlying data.
ISCO: this read rests on a single discipline (MoonshotScore) — the other council disciplines have no scored data yet.
How is this calculated? →Why this analysis is different
- A 9-signal quantitative MoonshotScore built from filings, insider activity, and market data — computed from the numbers, not from opinion.
- An AI Council read across up to eight perspectives — value, macro, quantitative, and momentum lenses — that shows where they disagree instead of averaging the tension away.
- Figures come straight from FMP and Yahoo Finance filings data. The AI writes the narrative around the numbers — it never edits the numbers.
International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) Healthcare & Pipeline Overview
International Stem Cell Corporation is a clinical-stage biotechnology firm leveraging proprietary human parthenogenetic stem cells to develop therapeutic solutions for central nervous system disorders and corneal diseases. The company also commercializes anti-aging skincare and a diverse portfolio of human cell culture products, serving global markets in healthcare and scientific research.
What Is the Investment Thesis for ISCO?
International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) presents an investment profile centered on its proprietary human parthenogenetic stem cell technology, which offers a unique approach to regenerative medicine. The company's clinical-stage pipeline, targeting significant unmet medical needs such as Parkinson's disease and corneal diseases, represents a key value driver. While still in development, successful advancement through clinical trials could unlock substantial market opportunities. ISCO also benefits from existing commercial revenue streams through its anti-aging skincare products and a diverse portfolio of human cell culture products, which provide foundational support with a reported Gross Margin of 57.0%. However, the company currently operates with a Profit Margin of -4.1%, indicating ongoing investment in research and development. Key growth catalysts include positive clinical trial data, regulatory approvals for its therapeutic candidates, and expansion of its commercial product lines. Investors must consider the inherent risks of biotechnology, including the challenges of navigating complex regulatory pathways for novel therapies and the liquidity constraints often associated with its OTC Other listing. Monitoring clinical trial progress and future funding requirements will be crucial for assessing ISCO's long-term potential.
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis
ISCO Key Highlights
The company maintains a Gross Margin of 57.0%, indicating efficient cost management relative to its revenue from commercial products.
- International Stem Cell Corporation is a clinical-stage company, reflected by a Profit Margin of -4.1%, as it invests significantly in research and development.
- With a Market Cap of $3.60M, the company is categorized as a micro-cap entity, which can imply higher volatility and liquidity considerations.
- The company's Beta is 0.15, suggesting its stock price has historically exhibited lower volatility compared to the broader market.
- ISCO does not currently offer a dividend, with a Dividend Yield of None, aligning with its clinical-stage biotechnology focus on reinvesting earnings into growth.
Who Are ISCO's Competitors?
ISCO is benchmarked below against 8 industry peers on price, market cap, and our AI MoonshotScore.
| Company | Price | Change | Market Cap | AI Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADAPY Adaptimmune Therapeutics plc | $0.03 | +0.00% | $7.16M | 72 |
| RLYB Rallybio Corporation | $16.60 | -2.35% | $88.1M | 81 |
| ICCC ImmuCell Corporation | $10.09 | -0.39% | $91.3M | 77 |
| JNCE Jounce Therapeutics, Inc. | $1.88 | +0.00% | $99.0M | 71 |
| ORMP Oramed Pharmaceuticals Inc. | $4.79 | +0.00% | $196M | 77 |
| CGEN Compugen Ltd. | $2.65 | +8.61% | $251M | 76 |
| NAGE Niagen Bioscience Inc | $3.15 | -0.63% | $251M | 74 |
| ADGI Adagio Therapeutics, Inc. | $4.64 | +0.87% | $506M | 71 |
AI Score by Stock Expert AI · Price data: FMP / Yahoo Finance
What Are ISCO's Key Strengths?
Proprietary human parthenogenetic stem cell technology provides a unique competitive advantage.
- Diverse product portfolio includes clinical-stage therapeutics, commercial research tools, and anti-aging skincare.
- Active engagement in developing specialized cell types for significant unmet medical needs like Parkinson's disease.
- Established distribution channels for commercial products, including direct sales and partnerships.
What Are ISCO's Weaknesses?
Operating with a negative Profit Margin (-4.1%), indicating reliance on funding for R&D and operations.
- Clinical-stage company, meaning therapeutic products are subject to lengthy and uncertain regulatory approval processes.
- OTC Other listing may lead to lower liquidity and less transparency compared to major exchanges.
- Limited public disclosure status for an OTC Other company, potentially hindering investor confidence.
What Could Drive ISCO Stock Higher?
ISCO catalyst: Positive clinical trial results for therapeutic candidates targeting Parkinson's disease or corneal diseases could significantly validate ISCO's proprietary stem cell technology and pipeline.
- Regulatory milestones, such as successful IND (Investigational New Drug) application clearances or advancement to later-stage clinical trials, would signal progress in its therapeutic development.
- Expansion of the commercial reach and sales growth of its human cell culture products and anti-aging skincare lines, contributing to revenue stability and growth.
- Securing new strategic partnerships or collaborations with larger pharmaceutical companies, which could provide funding, expertise, and accelerate therapeutic development.
What Are the Key Risks for ISCO?
Financial-distress signal — its Altman Z-Score of -28.91 sits in the distress zone (elevated bankruptcy risk).
- Challenges inherent to navigating the complex regulatory pathway for novel stem cell therapies, which can lead to delays or outright rejections.
- Significant future funding needs to support ongoing clinical trials and research and development efforts, potentially leading to dilution for existing shareholders.
- Liquidity constraints and limited public disclosure associated with trading on the OTC Other tier, which can impact stock price stability and investor confidence.
- Clinical trial failures or unexpected adverse events during the development of its therapeutic candidates, which could halt development and significantly impact company prospects.
- Intense competition within the biotechnology and regenerative medicine sectors from well-funded companies with established pipelines and market presence.
What Are the Growth Opportunities for ISCO?
- Advancement of the Therapeutic Pipeline: ISCO's ongoing clinical development of neural stem cells for Parkinson's disease and other CNS disorders, as well as treatments for corneal diseases, represents a significant growth driver. The global market for Parkinson's disease therapeutics alone is projected to reach several billion dollars in the coming years. Successful progression through clinical trials, particularly achieving positive Phase 2 or Phase 3 data, could substantially increase the company's valuation and attract partnerships. The timeline for these developments is typically long-term, spanning several years, but each successful milestone provides a clear catalyst for growth and market recognition.
- Expansion of Human Cell Culture Product Market: The company's extensive portfolio of human cell culture products serves as vital research tools across diverse scientific disciplines, including dermatology, cardiovascular, oncology, and respiratory research. The global cell culture market is continuously expanding, driven by increasing R&D activities in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. By expanding its sales force, strengthening OEM partnerships, and leveraging authorized distributors, ISCO can capture a larger share of this growing market. This opportunity offers a more immediate revenue stream compared to therapeutic development, with growth expected over the medium term as research funding increases globally.
- Growth in Anti-Aging Skincare Products: ISCO's commercialization of anti-aging skincare products, distributed via its website and professional channels, taps into a robust and expanding global cosmetic and personal care market. The anti-aging segment, in particular, is driven by consumer demand for innovative, science-backed solutions. By enhancing marketing efforts, expanding product lines, and potentially entering new geographic markets, ISCO can capitalize on this consistent consumer demand. This represents a steady, ongoing revenue opportunity that can help fund its more capital-intensive therapeutic research, with growth expected over the short to medium term.
- Leveraging Proprietary Parthenogenetic Stem Cell Technology: ISCO's proprietary human parthenogenetic stem cells are a unique form of pluripotent stem cells, offering a distinct advantage in the stem cell therapy landscape. This technology has the potential for broader application beyond current pipeline indications. By exploring and developing new therapeutic targets or licensing the technology to other pharmaceutical companies, ISCO could unlock significant value. This strategic opportunity involves long-term research and development, but successful new applications could open up entirely new multi-billion dollar markets, positioning ISCO as a leader in specific niches of regenerative medicine.
- Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations: Given the capital-intensive nature of biotechnology and drug development, forming strategic partnerships with larger pharmaceutical companies or academic institutions could accelerate ISCO's therapeutic pipeline. Such collaborations could provide access to additional funding, advanced research capabilities, and broader distribution networks for its commercial products. A successful partnership could significantly de-risk development costs and provide validation for its technology. This growth opportunity is ongoing, with potential for significant impact over the medium to long term, contingent on the attractiveness of ISCO's clinical data and proprietary technology.
What Threats Does ISCO Face?
- High regulatory hurdles and potential for clinical trial failures inherent in biotechnology drug development.
- Significant capital requirements for ongoing research and development, necessitating future funding rounds.
- Intense competition from other biotechnology firms developing stem cell therapies and regenerative medicines.
- Economic downturns or changes in healthcare policy could impact R&D funding and market demand for products.
What Are ISCO's Competitive Advantages?
- Proprietary human parthenogenetic stem cell technology, offering a unique source of pluripotent stem cells for therapeutic development.
- Diverse product portfolio spanning therapeutic candidates, research tools, and commercial skincare, diversifying revenue streams and market reach.
- Specialized expertise in developing neural stem cells for specific neurological disorders, creating a niche in regenerative medicine.
- Established distribution channels for its commercial products, including a dedicated sales force and OEM partnerships for cell culture products.
What Does ISCO Do?
Established in 2001 and headquartered in San Diego, California, International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) operates as a clinical-stage biotechnology firm dedicated to the creation of therapeutic and biomedical solutions for a global market, encompassing North America, Asia, Europe, and other regions. The cornerstone of ISCO's offerings lies in products derived from its proprietary human parthenogenetic stem cells, which represent a unique form of pluripotent stem cells. This innovative technology forms the basis for the company's therapeutic development efforts. ISCO is actively engaged in developing specialized cell types, such as neural stem cells, which demonstrate potential for treating complex conditions like Parkinson's disease and other disorders affecting the central nervous system. Beyond its therapeutic pipeline, the company diversifies its revenue streams by developing, manufacturing, and commercializing anti-aging skincare products. These skincare products are distributed through ISCO's dedicated website and specialized professional channels. Furthermore, ISCO maintains an extensive range of human cell culture products, which serve as vital research tools across numerous scientific disciplines. This portfolio includes specialized cells and reagents tailored for studying various fields such as dermatology (skin diseases, toxicology, wound healing), cardiovascular and oncology (heart and blood vessel conditions, cancers), respiratory (bronchial and tracheal conditions, toxicity, cystic fibrosis, asthma, pathogenesis), reproductive and urological (prostate, renal, bladder, corneal, female reproductive system diseases, cellular physiology), and musculoskeletal and metabolic (skeletal muscle biology, diabetes, insulin pathways, muscle repair, myotube development). The company also supplies adult stem cells for regenerative medicine research and a comprehensive suite of reagents and supplements essential for cell growth, staining, and cryopreservation. Distribution of these human cell culture products is managed through a dedicated sales force, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) partners, and authorized brand distributors, reflecting a multi-channel approach to market penetration.
What Products and Services Does ISCO Offer?
- Develop therapeutic solutions using proprietary human parthenogenetic stem cells.
- Focus on creating specialized cell types, such as neural stem cells, for diseases like Parkinson's.
- Manufacture and commercialize anti-aging skincare products.
- Develop and sell an extensive range of human cell culture products for scientific research.
- Provide adult stem cells for regenerative medicine research.
- Offer reagents and supplements essential for cell growth, staining, and cryopreservation.
- Distribute skincare products via its website and professional channels.
- Distribute human cell culture products through a dedicated sales force, OEM partners, and authorized distributors.
How Does ISCO Make Money?
- Revenue generation from the sale of anti-aging skincare products directly to consumers and through professional channels.
- Sales of human cell culture products, including specialized cells, reagents, and supplements, to research institutions and laboratories globally.
- Potential future revenue from the licensing or commercialization of therapeutic products developed from its proprietary stem cell technology, following regulatory approvals.
- Partnerships with OEM partners and authorized brand distributors for broader market reach of its cell culture products.
What Industry Does ISCO Operate In?
International Stem Cell Corporation operates within the dynamic and research-intensive Biotechnology industry, a sub-sector of Healthcare. The broader biotechnology market is characterized by significant innovation, particularly in areas like stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine, which hold immense promise for treating previously incurable diseases. ISCO differentiates itself through its proprietary human parthenogenetic stem cell technology, positioning it uniquely within the competitive landscape of stem cell research. While the industry is populated by numerous large pharmaceutical companies and smaller biotech firms, ISCO's focus on a specific type of pluripotent stem cell provides a distinct technological angle. The competitive environment includes companies developing various forms of stem cell therapies, gene therapies, and traditional pharmaceutical treatments. Market trends indicate a growing demand for advanced therapeutic solutions and research tools, where ISCO's diverse product portfolio, spanning therapeutics, research-grade cell cultures, and even skincare, allows it to address multiple segments.
Who Are ISCO's Key Customers?
- Scientific researchers and academic institutions utilizing human cell culture products for various studies.
- Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies requiring specialized cells and reagents for drug discovery and development.
- Consumers seeking anti-aging skincare solutions through direct-to-consumer channels.
- Professional skincare providers and clinics offering specialized anti-aging treatments.
Company Profile
International Stem Cell Corporation operates in the Biotechnology industry within the Healthcare sector. It is headquartered in San Diego, US. The company is led by CEO Andrey Semechkin. ISCO has traded publicly since 2007.
Key Financial Metrics
Return on equity for International Stem Cell Corporation stands at 9.6%, a gauge of how efficiently it converts shareholder capital into profit. Return on assets is -7.4%, showing how much profit it generates from its asset base. Its free cash flow yield is -10.5%, a gauge of the cash the business throws off relative to its market value. A current ratio of 0.76 means current liabilities exceed short-term assets, a liquidity point worth watching. Its earnings yield is -25.1%, the inverse of the P/E and a quick read on earnings relative to price.
ISCO Valuation & Market Position
With a $3.60M market cap, International Stem Cell Corporation sits in the micro-cap segment of the market. Relative to its peer group, ISCO's quantitative score of 51/100 is below the peer average of 76/100.
Quarterly Financial Performance: International Stem Cell Corporation
Revenue for International Stem Cell Corporation came in at $2.7M during Q2 2026, a 15.6% improvement versus the preceding quarter. The company recorded a net loss of $71K, with diluted EPS of $-0.01. Revenue has increased across the last three reported quarters, suggesting sustained momentum for this micro-cap Healthcare company. Across the four most recent quarters, ISCO averaged $-0.02 in diluted EPS.
Financial Health
International Stem Cell Corporation's Piotroski F-Score is 4/9, a 9-point checklist of profitability, leverage and efficiency — a middling fundamental profile. Its Altman Z-Score of -28.91 places it in the distress zone, a signal of elevated financial risk.
Forward Outlook
Wall Street analysts project International Stem Cell Corporation revenue of about $7.3M for fiscal 2026, with EPS near $-0.72.
ISCO Financials
Fundamental Snapshot
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis · FY 2025
Bull Case vs Bear Case
Bull Case
- Proprietary human parthenogenetic stem cell technology provides a unique competitive advantage.
- Diverse product portfolio includes clinical-stage therapeutics, commercial research tools, and anti-aging skincare.
- Active engagement in developing specialized cell types for significant unmet medical needs like Parkinson's disease.
- Established distribution channels for commercial products, including direct sales and partnerships.
Bear Case
- Operating with a negative Profit Margin (-4.1%), indicating reliance on funding for R&D and operations.
- Clinical-stage company, meaning therapeutic products are subject to lengthy and uncertain regulatory approval processes.
- OTC Other listing may lead to lower liquidity and less transparency compared to major exchanges.
- Limited public disclosure status for an OTC Other company, potentially hindering investor confidence.
AI-generated arguments based on insider flow, news sentiment and technicals — not financial advice · August 2026
Recent Quarterly Results
| Quarter | Revenue | Net Income | EPS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Q2 2026 | $3M | -$71,000 | -$0.01 |
| Q1 2026 | $2M | -$220,000 | -$0.03 |
| Q4 2025 | $2M | -$348,000 | -$0.03 |
| Q3 2025 | $2M | $57,000 | $0.01 |
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis
ISCO Latest News
No recent news available for ISCO.
ISCO Analyst Consensus
Consensus Rating
Aggregated Buy/Hold/Sell recommendations from Benzinga, Yahoo Finance, and Finnhub for ISCO.
Price Targets
Wall Street price target analysis for ISCO.
ISCO MoonshotScore
What does this score mean?
The MoonshotScore rates ISCO 0-100 on quantitative fundamentals — growth, financial health, valuation, momentum, and risk.
Leadership: Andrey Semechkin
CEO
Unknown. Information regarding Andrey Semechkin's specific career history, educational background, previous roles, and professional credentials is not provided in the source data.
Track Record: Unknown. Specific achievements, strategic decisions, or company milestones directly attributable to Andrey Semechkin's leadership are not detailed in the provided information.
ISCO OTC Market Information
International Stem Cell Corporation trades on the OTC Other tier, which is the lowest and most speculative tier of the OTC Markets Group's three marketplaces. Unlike companies listed on major exchanges like NYSE or NASDAQ, which have stringent listing requirements regarding financial health, share price, and corporate governance, OTC Other companies face minimal reporting standards. This tier is typically for companies that are not willing or able to meet the disclosure requirements of OTCQX or OTCQB, or that are in financial distress. Investors often encounter limited information and higher risks due to the lack of comprehensive regulatory oversight and reporting mandates.
- OTC Tier: OTC Other
- Limited Disclosure: The 'Unknown' disclosure status means investors have restricted access to current financial statements, operational updates, and other material information, making informed decisions challenging.
- Low Liquidity: Trading on the OTC Other tier often results in thin trading volumes and wide bid-ask spreads, making it difficult to buy or sell shares without significantly impacting the price.
- Price Volatility: Due to low liquidity and limited information, OTC Other stocks can experience extreme price fluctuations, posing higher risks for investors.
- Lack of Analyst Coverage: Companies on this tier typically receive little to no coverage from institutional analysts, further limiting publicly available research and insights.
- Potential for Fraud and Manipulation: The less regulated environment of the OTC Other tier can expose investors to a higher risk of fraudulent activities or market manipulation.
- Verify the company's current business operations and product development status independently.
- Attempt to locate any available financial statements or regulatory filings, even if not consistently updated.
- Assess the management team's experience and track record, seeking information beyond what is publicly stated.
- Research any news or press releases from reputable sources to understand recent company developments.
- Evaluate the company's capital structure and potential need for future financing, which could dilute existing shareholders.
- Understand the specific risks associated with the biotechnology sector and clinical-stage companies.
- Consider the potential for liquidity challenges and wider bid-ask spreads when planning trades.
- Headquartered in San Diego, US, a prominent biotechnology hub, which can lend credibility to its operational base.
- Established in 2001, indicating a long operational history, albeit with an OTC listing.
- Focus on proprietary human parthenogenetic stem cells, suggesting a unique technological approach in a complex scientific field.
- Diversified product portfolio including commercial skincare and research-grade cell culture products, indicating active revenue streams beyond therapeutic R&D.
ISCO Healthcare Stock FAQ
What does the AI Score mean for ISCO?
ISCO holds an AI Score of 51/100 (Grade: B). This is an educational research signal, not a buy or sell recommendation. International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) is a clinical-stage biotechnology firm focused on developing therapeutic and biomedical solutions derived from proprietary human parthenogenetic stem …
What revenue streams does International Stem Cell Corporation have in healthcare and related markets?
International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) generates revenue through a diversified portfolio of products. A significant portion comes from its extensive range of human cell culture products, which include specialized cells, reagents, and supplements vital for research across dermatology, cardiovascular, oncology, respiratory, reproductive, urological, musculoskeletal, and metabolic disciplines.
How does International Stem Cell Corporation navigate regulatory approval processes for its therapeutic products?
International Stem Cell Corporation, as a clinical-stage biotechnology firm, operates within a highly regulated environment, particularly concerning its therapeutic candidates derived from human parthenogenetic stem cells. The company's strategy involves progressing its neural stem cell therapies for Parkinson's disease and other central nervous system disorders, as well as treatments for corneal diseases, through the rigorous phases of clinical trials.
What are the primary risks associated with investing in International Stem Cell Corporation, particularly as an OTC-listed company?
Investing in International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) involves several key risks, exacerbated by its status as an OTC Other listed company. Operationally, ISCO is a clinical-stage biotechnology firm, meaning its therapeutic pipeline is subject to the inherent uncertainties of drug development, including potential clinical trial failures, lengthy regulatory approval processes, and significant capital requirements for ongoing research.
What are the key factors to evaluate for ISCO?
International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) holds an AI score of 51/100 (moderate). International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) presents an investment profile centered on its proprietary human parthenogenetic stem cell technology, which offers a unique approach to regenerative medicine. Not financial advice.
How frequently does ISCO data refresh on this page?
ISCO's price was last updated on Aug 21, 2026 and refreshes on page view during U.S. market hours — it is not a real-time exchange feed. Fundamentals update after quarterly filings; the MoonshotScore recalculates nightly; news aggregates continuously.
What has driven ISCO's recent stock price performance?
International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) moves on earnings results, analyst revisions, sector rotation, and market sentiment. Notable catalyst: Proprietary human parthenogenetic stem cell technology provides a unique competitive advantage. See the News tab for the latest drivers. Past performance does not predict future results.
Should investors consider ISCO overvalued or undervalued right now?
International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO) has no trailing P/E available here, so lean on price-to-sales and cash flow in the Financials tab. Compare P/E, P/S, and EV/EBITDA against sector peers for a full view.
How do I research ISCO before investing?
Before investing in International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCO), research these four areas: (1) the company's revenue model and competitive position (see Company Overview), (2) financial health through revenue growth, margins, and cash flow (see MoonshotScore), (3) analyst consensus ratings and price targets (see Analyst tab), and (4) specific risk factors that could impact the stock (see Risk Factors section).
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Always do your own research and consult a financial advisor.
Official Resources
Data provided for informational purposes only.
- Information regarding CEO background, track record, and tenure is not available in the provided source data and is marked as 'Unknown' or 'null'.
- Specific details on clinical trial phases, timelines, and market sizes for therapeutic pipeline products are not explicitly provided, thus general industry context is used.
- The 'competitors' array is empty as no FMP PEER TICKERS were provided in the source data.
- The 'disclosureLevel' for OTC analysis is 'Unknown' as per the source data, which is a significant limitation.