Source: The Sunday Times - Ireland
Posted: April 30, 2006
Summary:
A scientist in Galway, Ireland is preparing tests involving 10 patients suffering from chronic heart conditions. They will have stem cells grafted on to their hearts in order to determine whether this helps to repair the organs. The first human trial of stem cells on heart patients is to be carried out within two years.
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Mapping The Foundation Of Human Development
Source: Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research
Posted: April 30, 2006
Researchers have mapped how a key developmental ingredient controls the genome. The researchers discovered that a set of proteins called Polycomb group proteins represses entire networks of genes that are essential for later development, the same genes that begin to turn on as a stem cell starts to differentiate. That explains why embryonic stem cells immediately grow into specialized cells when Polycomb proteins are lost. The Researchers hope to use this map to guide the fate of cells so they can be used to replace diseased or damaged cells.
Commentary: Hopefully scientists will be able to apply this this finding to patients in order to replace cells that will lead to treatments of diseases and medical conditions.
Posted: April 30, 2006
Researchers have mapped how a key developmental ingredient controls the genome. The researchers discovered that a set of proteins called Polycomb group proteins represses entire networks of genes that are essential for later development, the same genes that begin to turn on as a stem cell starts to differentiate. That explains why embryonic stem cells immediately grow into specialized cells when Polycomb proteins are lost. The Researchers hope to use this map to guide the fate of cells so they can be used to replace diseased or damaged cells.
Commentary: Hopefully scientists will be able to apply this this finding to patients in order to replace cells that will lead to treatments of diseases and medical conditions.
Cytori study boosts stem cell therapy in heart disease
Source: Pharmaceutical Business Review
Date: 24th April 2006
By Tom Neilson
Date: 24th April 2006
By Tom Neilson
Friday, April 28, 2006
Researchers Learn More About Ways To Regenerate The Ear's Hearing Cells
Source: Massachusetts General Hospital
Posted: April 28, 2006
Researchers have made progress regenerating the inner ear's hair cells, which convert sound vibrations to nerve impulses. They successfully created a mouse model that allows them to build on earlier findings about the effect of deactivating a protein that controls the growth and division of hair cells.
Commentary: This study has given researchers new insight into cellular regeneration, which appears to provide a basis for studies into treatments for, hearing impairment and deafness.
Posted: April 28, 2006
Researchers have made progress regenerating the inner ear's hair cells, which convert sound vibrations to nerve impulses. They successfully created a mouse model that allows them to build on earlier findings about the effect of deactivating a protein that controls the growth and division of hair cells.
Commentary: This study has given researchers new insight into cellular regeneration, which appears to provide a basis for studies into treatments for, hearing impairment and deafness.
Human testing of stem-cell therapy OK'd
Source: Philadelphia Business Journal
Date: April 28, 2006
Summary:
Neuronyx Inc. will begin the first tests of its experimental adult stem-cell therapy treatment in human patients next month. The therapy involves injecting heart attack patients with stem cells harvested from adult bone marrow 30 days after their attack to preserve and potentially repair damaged heart tissue. In preclinical testing on animals the treatment showed the ability to regenerate damaged tissue.
Date: April 28, 2006
Summary:
Neuronyx Inc. will begin the first tests of its experimental adult stem-cell therapy treatment in human patients next month. The therapy involves injecting heart attack patients with stem cells harvested from adult bone marrow 30 days after their attack to preserve and potentially repair damaged heart tissue. In preclinical testing on animals the treatment showed the ability to regenerate damaged tissue.
Stem Cell Innovations Seeks Patent for Its Brain Cell-Making Methods
Source: Business New Jersey
Posted: April 28, 2006
Posted: April 28, 2006
Stem Cell Innovations Files Patents Relating to Production of Human Motor Neurons and Progenitors
Source: Stem Cell Innovations, Inc.
Posted: Friday April 28, 2006 7:13 am ET
Posted: Friday April 28, 2006 7:13 am ET
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Osiris Completes Enrollment in Stem Cell Trial for Knee Repair
Source: Business Wire
Date: April 25, 2006
Hopefully the results from this trial will be successful in using stem cells to treat knee injuries.
Date: April 25, 2006
Hopefully the results from this trial will be successful in using stem cells to treat knee injuries.
Stem-cell tech improves spinal-cord injury
Source: United Press International
Posted: April 26, 2006
An advancement in stem cell technology has enabled rats with spinal-cord injuries to walk again within two weeks, and could help people with traumatic spinal-cord injuries. Rats that were given immature immune system support cells, or astrocytes, experienced a 40-percent rise in nerve-fiber growth at the site of the injury in just eight days.
Scientists hope the new technology can be used to repair central nervous system injuries in people in the future, as well as other neurogenerative diseases.
Commentary: This is a significant breakthrough that hopefully will provide research will new strategies for using stem cells to treat spinal cord injuries in humans.
Posted: April 26, 2006
An advancement in stem cell technology has enabled rats with spinal-cord injuries to walk again within two weeks, and could help people with traumatic spinal-cord injuries. Rats that were given immature immune system support cells, or astrocytes, experienced a 40-percent rise in nerve-fiber growth at the site of the injury in just eight days.
Scientists hope the new technology can be used to repair central nervous system injuries in people in the future, as well as other neurogenerative diseases.
Commentary: This is a significant breakthrough that hopefully will provide research will new strategies for using stem cells to treat spinal cord injuries in humans.
New Approach May Boost Spinal Cord Repair
Source HealthDay News
Posted: April 27, 2006
THURSDAY, April 27 -- Researchers found that transplants of immature, stem cell-generated nervous system "support cells," called astrocytes, helped repair damaged spinal cords in rats,.
The finding challenges current concepts of how to use stem cells to promote tissue repair, the study authors said.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will provide scientists with new insights into how to clinical applications of stem cells to treat humans with spinal cord injuries.
Posted: April 27, 2006
THURSDAY, April 27 -- Researchers found that transplants of immature, stem cell-generated nervous system "support cells," called astrocytes, helped repair damaged spinal cords in rats,.
The finding challenges current concepts of how to use stem cells to promote tissue repair, the study authors said.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will provide scientists with new insights into how to clinical applications of stem cells to treat humans with spinal cord injuries.
Novel stem cell technology leads to better spinal cord repair
Source: University of Rochester Medical Center
Posted: April 27, 2006
Scientists showed that rats that received a transplant of a specific type of immature support cell from the central nervous system (generated from stem cells) had more than 60 percent of their sensory nerve fibers regenerate. Equally signficant, the study showed that more than two-thirds of the nerve fibers grew all the way through the injury sites eight days later, a result that is much more promising than previous research. The rats that received the cell transplants also walked normally in two weeks.
Commentary: Hopefully this approach can be translated into treatments for humans with spinal cord injuries.
Posted: April 27, 2006
Scientists showed that rats that received a transplant of a specific type of immature support cell from the central nervous system (generated from stem cells) had more than 60 percent of their sensory nerve fibers regenerate. Equally signficant, the study showed that more than two-thirds of the nerve fibers grew all the way through the injury sites eight days later, a result that is much more promising than previous research. The rats that received the cell transplants also walked normally in two weeks.
Commentary: Hopefully this approach can be translated into treatments for humans with spinal cord injuries.
Trial set to test how stem cells heal a broken heart: A fresh supply of mitochondria does the trick, say researchers.
Source: Nature
Posted: April 27, 2006
Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh are conducting a clinical trial that involves injecting stem cells into the hearts of people scheduled to undergo a heart transplant and then examining the removed hearts to see how the stem cells function.
Based on preliminary evidence, the researchers say, the stem cells appear to fuse with the patient's damaged heart cells and increase the number of cells in the damaged area of the heart. But scientists are unsure whether the cells formed true heart muscle.
Scientists conclude that it is more likely that bone marrow cells differentiated into new myocytes and improved function, rather than old myocytes being modified by fusion to become better cells," he says.
Scientists say the stem cells might help the heart by providing fresh mitochondria and allowing for stronger, synchronous contractions.
Commentary: This study appears to be early evidence that stem cells could treat heart conditions. Hopefully it will provide researchers with new ideas about how to use stem cells to develop effective treatments.
Posted: April 27, 2006
Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh are conducting a clinical trial that involves injecting stem cells into the hearts of people scheduled to undergo a heart transplant and then examining the removed hearts to see how the stem cells function.
Based on preliminary evidence, the researchers say, the stem cells appear to fuse with the patient's damaged heart cells and increase the number of cells in the damaged area of the heart. But scientists are unsure whether the cells formed true heart muscle.
Scientists conclude that it is more likely that bone marrow cells differentiated into new myocytes and improved function, rather than old myocytes being modified by fusion to become better cells," he says.
Scientists say the stem cells might help the heart by providing fresh mitochondria and allowing for stronger, synchronous contractions.
Commentary: This study appears to be early evidence that stem cells could treat heart conditions. Hopefully it will provide researchers with new ideas about how to use stem cells to develop effective treatments.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Stem Cells Used To Help Those With Knee Pain
Source: CBS Broadcasting / WCCO-4, Minneapolis, MN
Posted: April 26, 2006
Here is a feature story about using stem cells to treat chronic knee pain. Be sure to watch the video that is part of this story.
Posted: April 26, 2006
Here is a feature story about using stem cells to treat chronic knee pain. Be sure to watch the video that is part of this story.
Novel Stem Cell Technology Leads To Better Spinal Cord Repair
Source: BioMed Central
Posted: April 26, 2006
An advance in stem cell research has identified a new way to promote recovery after spinal cord injury. A study demonstrated that rats recover from spinal cord injury following transplantation with immature support cells of the central nervous system generated from stem cells.
These studies make important advances in both stem cell research and identification of the right cell types for repairing the injured adult nervous system.
Commentary: Hopefully this work will one day be translated into a treatment for human patients with spinal cord injuries.
Posted: April 26, 2006
An advance in stem cell research has identified a new way to promote recovery after spinal cord injury. A study demonstrated that rats recover from spinal cord injury following transplantation with immature support cells of the central nervous system generated from stem cells.
These studies make important advances in both stem cell research and identification of the right cell types for repairing the injured adult nervous system.
Commentary: Hopefully this work will one day be translated into a treatment for human patients with spinal cord injuries.
Stem Cell Thera to conduct phase IIa stroke study
Source: Pharmaceutical Business Review
Posted: April 26, 2006
Here is more about the clinical by Stem Cell Therapeutics stroke drug study. SEE "Stem Cell's stroke drug enters phase 2a" for more information.
Posted: April 26, 2006
Here is more about the clinical by Stem Cell Therapeutics stroke drug study. SEE "Stem Cell's stroke drug enters phase 2a" for more information.
New Research Demonstrates Bone-marrow Derived Stem Cells Can Reverse Genetic Kidney Disease
Source: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Posted: April 24, 2006
Scientists at Harvard University have discovered that bone-marrow derived stem cells can regenerate damaged renal cells in an animal model of Alport syndrome. The discovery could provide a new strategy for managing this inherited kidney disease and offers the first example of how stem cells may be useful in repairing basement membrane matrix defects and restoring organ function.
Commentary: Hopefully treatments this study will be able to be applied not only to Alport syndrome, but other kidney-related diseases.
Posted: April 24, 2006
Scientists at Harvard University have discovered that bone-marrow derived stem cells can regenerate damaged renal cells in an animal model of Alport syndrome. The discovery could provide a new strategy for managing this inherited kidney disease and offers the first example of how stem cells may be useful in repairing basement membrane matrix defects and restoring organ function.
Commentary: Hopefully treatments this study will be able to be applied not only to Alport syndrome, but other kidney-related diseases.
GERON ANNOUNCES ISSUANCE OF U.S. PATENT FOR PRODUCTION OF INSULIN SECRETING CELLS FROM HUMAN EMBRYONIC STEM CELLS
Source: Geron Corporation
Posted: April 26, 2006
Here is the official press release from Geron Corporation announcing a patent for production of insulin secreting cells from human embryonic stem cells.
Commentary: Hopefully this advancement will lead to stem cell treatments for human patients with diabetes.
Posted: April 26, 2006
Here is the official press release from Geron Corporation announcing a patent for production of insulin secreting cells from human embryonic stem cells.
Commentary: Hopefully this advancement will lead to stem cell treatments for human patients with diabetes.
Geron gets stem cell patent
Source: San Francisco Business Times
Posted: April 26, 2006
Geron Corp. said Wednesday that it was granted a patent covering the production of insulin secreting cells from human embryonic stem cells.
Commentary: Hopefully this patent will accelerate the development of diabetes treatments using stem cells.
Posted: April 26, 2006
Geron Corp. said Wednesday that it was granted a patent covering the production of insulin secreting cells from human embryonic stem cells.
Commentary: Hopefully this patent will accelerate the development of diabetes treatments using stem cells.
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Joslin-led study reveals findings on how insulin-producing beta cells grow and function: Findings one day may lead to advances in treatments for peopl
Source: Joslin Diabetes Center
Posted: April 23, 2006
BOSTON -- A new study has shown conclusively that two receptors in the insulin-producing beta cell do not affect developmental growth, refuting a long-held hypothesis in diabetes research. This finding is helping scientists in their efforts to isolate the growth factors that do stimulate beta cell growth and understand the defects in insulin production and secretion that cause diabetes.
If the exact growth factor is identified, it could be used to promote beta cell growth. Another treatment option is growing beta cells outside the body and transplanting them into patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The body needs a large number of beta cells to function normally.
Commentary: Hopefully this study will lead to effective stem cell treatments for people with diabetes.
Posted: April 23, 2006
BOSTON -- A new study has shown conclusively that two receptors in the insulin-producing beta cell do not affect developmental growth, refuting a long-held hypothesis in diabetes research. This finding is helping scientists in their efforts to isolate the growth factors that do stimulate beta cell growth and understand the defects in insulin production and secretion that cause diabetes.
If the exact growth factor is identified, it could be used to promote beta cell growth. Another treatment option is growing beta cells outside the body and transplanting them into patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The body needs a large number of beta cells to function normally.
Commentary: Hopefully this study will lead to effective stem cell treatments for people with diabetes.
Stem Cell's stroke drug enters phase 2a
Souce: United Press International
Posted: April 25, 2006
Here is an update on a promising clinical trial on a drug developed by Stem Cell Therapeutics to treat stroke patients.
Posted: April 25, 2006
Here is an update on a promising clinical trial on a drug developed by Stem Cell Therapeutics to treat stroke patients.
Clues To Breast Cancer Hidden Inside Stem Cells
Source: European Science Foundation
Posted: April 25, 2006
Scientists are discovering that stopping harmful stem cell growth could be critical, as evidence implicating stem cells in cancer is mounting.
In the human breast, up to 20 per cent of all tumours are now suspected to originate in stem cells.
Scientists believe These stem cells could become targets for cancer treatment, leading to new therapies that wipe out cancer at its source. The hope is that they might also become useful tools to test new drugs.
Commentary: Hopefully this new discovery will provide scientists and researchers with new strategies to treat and possibly prevent cancers, and is further evidence that stem cell research is overturning conventional scientific dogmas held for many years about Cell Theory.
Posted: April 25, 2006
Scientists are discovering that stopping harmful stem cell growth could be critical, as evidence implicating stem cells in cancer is mounting.
In the human breast, up to 20 per cent of all tumours are now suspected to originate in stem cells.
Scientists believe These stem cells could become targets for cancer treatment, leading to new therapies that wipe out cancer at its source. The hope is that they might also become useful tools to test new drugs.
Commentary: Hopefully this new discovery will provide scientists and researchers with new strategies to treat and possibly prevent cancers, and is further evidence that stem cell research is overturning conventional scientific dogmas held for many years about Cell Theory.
Studies Find Elusive Key to Cell Fate in Embryo
Source: New York Times
Posted: April 25, 2006
Summary:
The New York Times reports scientists have discovered a trait that helps to determine a cell's fate:
"Biologists at the Broad and Whitehead Institutes in Cambridge, Mass., have studied the system that assigns cells their various identities and identified potentially a crucial trait of how a cell's fate is determined. They have discovered a striking new feature of the chromatin, the specialized protein molecules that protect and control the giant molecules of DNA that lie at the center of every chromosome. The feature explains how embryonic cells are kept in a poised state so that all of the genome's many developmental programs are blocked, yet each is ready to be executed if the cell is assigned to that developmental path."
Posted: April 25, 2006
Summary:
The New York Times reports scientists have discovered a trait that helps to determine a cell's fate:
"Biologists at the Broad and Whitehead Institutes in Cambridge, Mass., have studied the system that assigns cells their various identities and identified potentially a crucial trait of how a cell's fate is determined. They have discovered a striking new feature of the chromatin, the specialized protein molecules that protect and control the giant molecules of DNA that lie at the center of every chromosome. The feature explains how embryonic cells are kept in a poised state so that all of the genome's many developmental programs are blocked, yet each is ready to be executed if the cell is assigned to that developmental path."
UMDNJ scientist aids study on brain repair
Source: The Star-Ledger
Posted: April 25, 2006
BY ANGELA STEWART
Star-Ledger Staff
A research team has identified two receptors that increase the number of restorative stem cells as a response to brain injury. This knowledge could lead to development of new drugs that target the two stem cell receptors which are key players in brain regeneration.
Commentary: Hopefully this research will enable the development of drugs that produce stem cells that can be used to treat diseases and injuries.
Posted: April 25, 2006
BY ANGELA STEWART
Star-Ledger Staff
A research team has identified two receptors that increase the number of restorative stem cells as a response to brain injury. This knowledge could lead to development of new drugs that target the two stem cell receptors which are key players in brain regeneration.
Commentary: Hopefully this research will enable the development of drugs that produce stem cells that can be used to treat diseases and injuries.
Testes To Incubate Stem Cells
Source: European Science Foundation
Posted: April 25, 2006
Sperm-producing stem cells found in testicles could be extracted, grown in the lab, and frozen for future use. Scientists have successfully harvested spermatogonial stem cells from cows and cultured them inside mouse testes. The hope is that the same thing could be done for men.
The researchers are also hunting for the ideal conditions and nutrients that will coax spermatogonial stem cells into becoming sperm. The team's next move is to transplant monkey and human cells into the mouse testes system.
The research offers theraputic potential to help young cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Posted: April 25, 2006
Sperm-producing stem cells found in testicles could be extracted, grown in the lab, and frozen for future use. Scientists have successfully harvested spermatogonial stem cells from cows and cultured them inside mouse testes. The hope is that the same thing could be done for men.
The researchers are also hunting for the ideal conditions and nutrients that will coax spermatogonial stem cells into becoming sperm. The team's next move is to transplant monkey and human cells into the mouse testes system.
The research offers theraputic potential to help young cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Monday, April 24, 2006
Scientists Make Major Finding On Potential Cure For Type 1 Diabetes
Source: La Jolla Institute For Allergy And Immunology
Posted: April 23, 2006
Scientist have developed a new approach to curing Type 1 Diabetes that focuses on teaching the immune system to tolerate, rather than attack, the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas.
Commentary: Hopefully this approach will be effective in treating a diverse population of people with Type 1 diabetes.
Posted: April 23, 2006
Scientist have developed a new approach to curing Type 1 Diabetes that focuses on teaching the immune system to tolerate, rather than attack, the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas.
Commentary: Hopefully this approach will be effective in treating a diverse population of people with Type 1 diabetes.
Lax Oversight Blamed for Stem Cell Hoax - Newspaper: Lax Oversight at University of Pittsburgh Enabled Involvement in Stem-Cell Hoax
Source: Associated Press via ABCNews.com
Posted: April 24, 2006
Commentary:
This story again empasizes the need for strict ethical guidelines, peer review and expanded federal funding of embryonic stem cell research, so enough researchers and scientists are replicating stem cell experiments, sharing their knowledge and comparing their results in order to eliminate research fraud. See an earlier post from the Mongomery Advertiser, 1/7/06: "Editorial: Stem-cell policy has long reach" for more about this issue.
Posted: April 24, 2006
Commentary:
This story again empasizes the need for strict ethical guidelines, peer review and expanded federal funding of embryonic stem cell research, so enough researchers and scientists are replicating stem cell experiments, sharing their knowledge and comparing their results in order to eliminate research fraud. See an earlier post from the Mongomery Advertiser, 1/7/06: "Editorial: Stem-cell policy has long reach" for more about this issue.
Cytori Therapeutics Demonstrates Adipose Stem and Regenerative Cells Reduce Incidence of Arrhythmia after Heart Attacks in Preclinical Study
Source: Business Wire
Posted: April 21, 2006
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 21, 2006--Cytori Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:CYTX) (Frankfurt:XMPA) announced today preclinical data demonstrating that adipose stem and regenerative cell-based therapy following a heart attack in pigs is not associated with an increased risk of irregular heart rhythms, which can result in potentially life threatening complications from heart attacks.
Commentary: Hopefully clinical trials using adipose tissue to treat heart attacks will be successful in humans.
Posted: April 21, 2006
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 21, 2006--Cytori Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:CYTX) (Frankfurt:XMPA) announced today preclinical data demonstrating that adipose stem and regenerative cell-based therapy following a heart attack in pigs is not associated with an increased risk of irregular heart rhythms, which can result in potentially life threatening complications from heart attacks.
Commentary: Hopefully clinical trials using adipose tissue to treat heart attacks will be successful in humans.
Cytori Therapeutics Reports Benefit of Adipose Stem and Regenerative Cells in Reconstructive Surgery from Preclinical Study
Source: Businesswire
Posted: Monday April 24, 9:30 am ET
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 24, 2006--Cytori Therapeutics, Inc. announced today that adipose stem and regenerative cells, when administered in combination with a fat graft, improved survival of the transplanted tissue in a preclinical study. T
Commentary: Hopefully this study will lead to improved outcomes for plastic and reconstructive surgery patients.
Posted: Monday April 24, 9:30 am ET
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 24, 2006--Cytori Therapeutics, Inc. announced today that adipose stem and regenerative cells, when administered in combination with a fat graft, improved survival of the transplanted tissue in a preclinical study. T
Commentary: Hopefully this study will lead to improved outcomes for plastic and reconstructive surgery patients.
A Peek Under The Hood Of Embryonic Stem Cells
Source: Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard
Posted: April 24, 2006
A research team has discovered unique molecular imprints coupled to DNA in mouse ES cells. These imprints, or "signatures," appear near the master regulatory genes that control embryonic development and likely coordinate their activity during the initial phases of cell maturation. Largely absent from other cell types, the signatures disappear from ES cells once they commit to a specific developmental path. This could provide greater understanding of the rare and wide-ranging capacities of ES cells as well as the limited abilities that other cells have to repair or replace themselves.
Commentary: This finding could also give scientists greater insight into how they might be able to transform embryonic stem cells into human tissues to treat diseases and injuries
Posted: April 24, 2006
A research team has discovered unique molecular imprints coupled to DNA in mouse ES cells. These imprints, or "signatures," appear near the master regulatory genes that control embryonic development and likely coordinate their activity during the initial phases of cell maturation. Largely absent from other cell types, the signatures disappear from ES cells once they commit to a specific developmental path. This could provide greater understanding of the rare and wide-ranging capacities of ES cells as well as the limited abilities that other cells have to repair or replace themselves.
Commentary: This finding could also give scientists greater insight into how they might be able to transform embryonic stem cells into human tissues to treat diseases and injuries
Researchers Make Stem Cell Find: The discovery, published in the journal Cell, could pave the way for regenerative therapies
Source: Harvard Crimson
Posted: April 24, 2006
Here is a new study that might provide scientists with new insight and understanding into the process of embryonic stem cell differentiation.
Posted: April 24, 2006
Here is a new study that might provide scientists with new insight and understanding into the process of embryonic stem cell differentiation.
How Embryonic Stem Cells Maintain Their Identity
Source: Cell Press
Posted: April 23, 2006
Two studies are providing new details of the "genetic program" that enables embryonic stem cells to become any cell type in the body. Both groups identified mechanisms that keep the embryonic stem cells of mice or humans from choosing a specific formation path--such as muscle or nervous tissue--while remaining "poised for activation."
The study suggests that a comprehensive inventory of the presence or absence of bivalent domains over key developmental genes may provide new insight into cell identity and differentiation potential, in both health and disease.
Commetary: Hopefully this research will further understanding about embryonice stem cell development and provide scientists with new strategies to apply embryonic stem cells to treat diseases and injuries.
Posted: April 23, 2006
Two studies are providing new details of the "genetic program" that enables embryonic stem cells to become any cell type in the body. Both groups identified mechanisms that keep the embryonic stem cells of mice or humans from choosing a specific formation path--such as muscle or nervous tissue--while remaining "poised for activation."
The study suggests that a comprehensive inventory of the presence or absence of bivalent domains over key developmental genes may provide new insight into cell identity and differentiation potential, in both health and disease.
Commetary: Hopefully this research will further understanding about embryonice stem cell development and provide scientists with new strategies to apply embryonic stem cells to treat diseases and injuries.
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Viral Protein Helps Infected T Cells Stick To Uninfected Cells
Source: Ohio State University
Posted: April 22, 2006
Posted: April 22, 2006
Front-line Immune Cells Mature In Four Stages, Study Shows
Source: Ohio State University
Posted: April 24, 2006
Researchers here have cracked the site and the stages of development for the last major set of human immune cells.
The researchers found that natural killer (NK) cells, one of the body's front-line defenses against cancer and infections, mature from progenitor stem cells in four discrete stages. They also found that this happens in secondary lymphoid tissue such as tonsils and lymph glands.
The findings advance the understanding of NK cells, which play a key role in triggering broader immune responses such as the body's permanent protection following vaccination. Understanding the secrets of NK cell development in humans could lead to new therapies for cancer, infection and for patients with immune deficiencies.
Posted: April 24, 2006
Researchers here have cracked the site and the stages of development for the last major set of human immune cells.
The researchers found that natural killer (NK) cells, one of the body's front-line defenses against cancer and infections, mature from progenitor stem cells in four discrete stages. They also found that this happens in secondary lymphoid tissue such as tonsils and lymph glands.
The findings advance the understanding of NK cells, which play a key role in triggering broader immune responses such as the body's permanent protection following vaccination. Understanding the secrets of NK cell development in humans could lead to new therapies for cancer, infection and for patients with immune deficiencies.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Stem Cells For Nervous System Repair
Source: American Academy of Neurology
Posted: April 21, 2006
Here is a study about using stem cellls to treat nervous system disorders. Hopefully the findings in the study can be clinically applied to patients in the future.
Posted: April 21, 2006
Here is a study about using stem cellls to treat nervous system disorders. Hopefully the findings in the study can be clinically applied to patients in the future.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Scientists announce stem-cell discovery
Source: United Press International
Posted: April 20, 2006
BOSTON, April 20 (UPI) -- U.S. scientists claim to have uncovered signatures near crucial developmental genes.
Commentary: Hopefull this discovery will accelerate the development of disease treatments from embryonic stem cells.
Posted: April 20, 2006
BOSTON, April 20 (UPI) -- U.S. scientists claim to have uncovered signatures near crucial developmental genes.
Commentary: Hopefull this discovery will accelerate the development of disease treatments from embryonic stem cells.
Clinical Safety and Feasibility Study Initiated Using Adipose Stem and Regenerative Cells in Breast Reconstruction Procedures
Source: Business Wire
Posted: April 20, 2006
SAN DIEGO & TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 20, 2006--Cytori Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:CYTX) (Frankfurt:XMPA) announced today approval to begin an investigator-initiated safety and feasibility study in Japan using adult adipose (fat) derived stem and regenerative cells for breast reconstruction.
Posted: April 20, 2006
SAN DIEGO & TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 20, 2006--Cytori Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:CYTX) (Frankfurt:XMPA) announced today approval to begin an investigator-initiated safety and feasibility study in Japan using adult adipose (fat) derived stem and regenerative cells for breast reconstruction.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Purdue Scientists Find Hypertension Drug Reverses Death Of Cells
Source: Purdue University
Posted: April 18, 2006
Purdue University researchers have identified a drug commonly used to treat hypertension that may also reverse damage from spinal cord injuries, cancer and Parkinson's disease.
The Researchers found that hydralazine, a medication that relaxes veins and arteries, may be an antidote for acrolein, a deadly toxin that is produced after a nerve cell is injured.
The researchers studied how acrolein attacks and kills cells and showed that cell death caused by acrolein (a-KRO-le-an), a byproduct of an injury, can be reversed when hydralazine is administered.
Commentary: These studies seem to be signficant findings into understanding and potentially reversing cell death, and could potentially provide new insights into cellular regeneratiion to treat conditions such as Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, diabetes and stroke.
Posted: April 18, 2006
Purdue University researchers have identified a drug commonly used to treat hypertension that may also reverse damage from spinal cord injuries, cancer and Parkinson's disease.
The Researchers found that hydralazine, a medication that relaxes veins and arteries, may be an antidote for acrolein, a deadly toxin that is produced after a nerve cell is injured.
The researchers studied how acrolein attacks and kills cells and showed that cell death caused by acrolein (a-KRO-le-an), a byproduct of an injury, can be reversed when hydralazine is administered.
Commentary: These studies seem to be signficant findings into understanding and potentially reversing cell death, and could potentially provide new insights into cellular regeneratiion to treat conditions such as Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, diabetes and stroke.
Stem Cell Study for Patients with Heart Attack Damage Seeks to Regenerate Heart Muscle
Source: Rush University Medical Center
Posted: April 20, 2006
A new study is being conducted to determine whether transplanted stem cells can regenerate damaged heart muscle in those who experience a first heart attack. The study involves an intravenous infusion of adult mesenchymal stem cells from healthy donor bone marrow that might possibly reverse damage to heart tissue. This procedure is innovative because it is given to patients through a standard IV line. Other therapies require delivery to the site of the disease through catheterization or open surgical procedures, but this one is very simple and easy for the patient.
Commentary: This study is significant because it shows that stem cells can be easily delivered to patients intravenously and that blood-forming stem cells do have some capabilities to repair heart attack damage.
Posted: April 20, 2006
A new study is being conducted to determine whether transplanted stem cells can regenerate damaged heart muscle in those who experience a first heart attack. The study involves an intravenous infusion of adult mesenchymal stem cells from healthy donor bone marrow that might possibly reverse damage to heart tissue. This procedure is innovative because it is given to patients through a standard IV line. Other therapies require delivery to the site of the disease through catheterization or open surgical procedures, but this one is very simple and easy for the patient.
Commentary: This study is significant because it shows that stem cells can be easily delivered to patients intravenously and that blood-forming stem cells do have some capabilities to repair heart attack damage.
Transgenomic's Discovery Services Team Supports Study Linking Stem Cell Mutation to Blood Disorder and Development of Leukemia: Targeted Mutation Sc
Source: Transgenomic, Inc. via PR Newswire
Date: April 18, 2006
OMAHA, Neb., April 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Transgenomic, Inc. announced today the publication of a study in which contributed to the finding that patients with a disorder called polycythemia vera (PV) have a mutation in a gene in blood-forming stem cells. These stem cells represent an early developmental stage in which the blood cells have not yet committed to a specialized function. The genetic mutation is likely to be associated with the excessive production of red blood cells in the bone marrow which is characteristic of PV.
Commentary: This study may have implications for using stem cells to treat blood diseases and disorders.
Date: April 18, 2006
OMAHA, Neb., April 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Transgenomic, Inc. announced today the publication of a study in which contributed to the finding that patients with a disorder called polycythemia vera (PV) have a mutation in a gene in blood-forming stem cells. These stem cells represent an early developmental stage in which the blood cells have not yet committed to a specialized function. The genetic mutation is likely to be associated with the excessive production of red blood cells in the bone marrow which is characteristic of PV.
Commentary: This study may have implications for using stem cells to treat blood diseases and disorders.
Researchers hope stem cells can help repair damaged hearts
Source: Burlington County Times
Date: April 18, 2006
Researchers are studying how stem cells taken from donated placentas and umbilical cords can be used to repair hearts damaged by disease by researching what it takes, such as signals, mediators and chemistry, to get a stem cell to turn into a mature cell.
Date: April 18, 2006
Researchers are studying how stem cells taken from donated placentas and umbilical cords can be used to repair hearts damaged by disease by researching what it takes, such as signals, mediators and chemistry, to get a stem cell to turn into a mature cell.
Monday, April 17, 2006
Stem Cells Offer Hope Against Heart Failure: No breakthroughs yet, but getting the 'recipe' right will be key, experts say
Source: HealthDay News
Date: February 2, 2006
By E.J. Mundell
HealthDay Reporter
Here is an article about strategies for using stem cells to potentially treat heart failure.
Date: February 2, 2006
By E.J. Mundell
HealthDay Reporter
Here is an article about strategies for using stem cells to potentially treat heart failure.
Bile Acids, Receptor Key In Regenerating Livers
Source: Baylor College of Medicine
Posted: April 14, 2006
Researchers have discovered that regenerating liver tissue may depend on signals sent out when there is an imbalance in bile. They identified an imbalance of bile, specifically bile acids, as a major signal for this process.
Liver is an unusual organ because it can regrow when injured.
Understanding how this happens could help physicians seeking to treat liver disease.
Commentary: These findings could have implications for treating liver disorders and diseases and could broaden the theory and practice of regenerative medicine.
Posted: April 14, 2006
Researchers have discovered that regenerating liver tissue may depend on signals sent out when there is an imbalance in bile. They identified an imbalance of bile, specifically bile acids, as a major signal for this process.
Liver is an unusual organ because it can regrow when injured.
Understanding how this happens could help physicians seeking to treat liver disease.
Commentary: These findings could have implications for treating liver disorders and diseases and could broaden the theory and practice of regenerative medicine.
Stem Cells Make “Human” Drug Trials In Animals Possible
Source: American Technion Society
Date: April 17, 2006
By injecting human stem cells into laboratory mice and creating various human tissues, researchers have devised a way to conduct “human” drug trials on animals. Conducting trials on the human cell tissue carried by the mice gives scientists an indication of whether to even proceed with human trials - and what to expect when they are undertaken. The patented findings are reported in the April 1, 2006 issue of Cancer Research.
Commentary: Hopefully this new method will enable scientists to simulate experiments and clinical trials on animals. This could make human clinical trials more efficient and expedite the commercialization and distribution to a large number of patients.
Date: April 17, 2006
By injecting human stem cells into laboratory mice and creating various human tissues, researchers have devised a way to conduct “human” drug trials on animals. Conducting trials on the human cell tissue carried by the mice gives scientists an indication of whether to even proceed with human trials - and what to expect when they are undertaken. The patented findings are reported in the April 1, 2006 issue of Cancer Research.
Commentary: Hopefully this new method will enable scientists to simulate experiments and clinical trials on animals. This could make human clinical trials more efficient and expedite the commercialization and distribution to a large number of patients.
The promise of stem cell research - A CNN Future Summit technology profile
Source: CNN.com
Posted: Monday, April 17, 2006
Here is a feature from CNN on the ethics, challenges and controversies, and current and future uses of stem cell research and therapies.
Posted: Monday, April 17, 2006
Here is a feature from CNN on the ethics, challenges and controversies, and current and future uses of stem cell research and therapies.
Primitive Adult Stem Cells Found in Peripheral Blood
Source: Moraga Biotechnology Corporation
Posted: April 17, 2006
Moraga Biotechnology Corporation, an adult stem cell company, announced the discovery of its proprietary Blastomere-Like Stem Cells (BLSCs) circulating in the peripheral blood of mammals. The Company's scientists found that these adult stem cells were able to differentiate into most tissues and organs of the body.
Commentary: Hopefully this discovery will have clinical applications for treating blood disorders such as hemophilia and Leukemia in the future.
Posted: April 17, 2006
Moraga Biotechnology Corporation, an adult stem cell company, announced the discovery of its proprietary Blastomere-Like Stem Cells (BLSCs) circulating in the peripheral blood of mammals. The Company's scientists found that these adult stem cells were able to differentiate into most tissues and organs of the body.
Commentary: Hopefully this discovery will have clinical applications for treating blood disorders such as hemophilia and Leukemia in the future.
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Stem Cells That Kill
Source: Time
Posted: Sunday, April 16, 2006
By ALICE PARK
Cancer researchers are becoming interested in stem cells as they are discovering that cancerous stem cells could be the root of malignant tumors.
Commentary: This new discovery is revolutionizing the Cell Theory, proving researchers with a new avenue to treat, and hopefully eventually cure, cancer and other cellular diseases.
Posted: Sunday, April 16, 2006
By ALICE PARK
Cancer researchers are becoming interested in stem cells as they are discovering that cancerous stem cells could be the root of malignant tumors.
Commentary: This new discovery is revolutionizing the Cell Theory, proving researchers with a new avenue to treat, and hopefully eventually cure, cancer and other cellular diseases.
Thailand to begin stemcell heart study: report
Source: Yahoo! News UK & Ireland
Posted: April 16, 2006
Posted: April 16, 2006
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Stem-cell rules criticized: Federal policies restrict funding
Source: Kansas City Star
Posted: April 15, 2006
Here is a feature about the current federal stem cell research policy's effect on research funding and how it is making the United States fall behind other countries in the field of stem cell research.
Posted: April 15, 2006
Here is a feature about the current federal stem cell research policy's effect on research funding and how it is making the United States fall behind other countries in the field of stem cell research.
Bioactive Cement Scaffold May Improve Bone Grafts
Source: National Institute of Standards and Technology
Posted: April 15, 2006
A new technology that provides a method for making scaffolds for bone tissue may improve construction or repair of bones in the face, skull and jaw. The scaffolds are fused with a patients' own cells and composed of a cement paste made of minerals also found in natural bone. The paste is mixed with beads of a natural polymer (made from seaweed) filled with bone cells. The paste is shaped or injected into a bone cavity and then allowed to harden with the encapsulated cells dispersed throughout the structure. The natural polymer beads gradually dissolve when exposed to the body's fluids, creating a scaffold that is filled by the now released bone cells.
Commentary: This procedure appears to accelerate bone growth and is a promising area of regenerative medicine that, in the future, could improve outcomes of reconstructive and plastic surgery.
Posted: April 15, 2006
A new technology that provides a method for making scaffolds for bone tissue may improve construction or repair of bones in the face, skull and jaw. The scaffolds are fused with a patients' own cells and composed of a cement paste made of minerals also found in natural bone. The paste is mixed with beads of a natural polymer (made from seaweed) filled with bone cells. The paste is shaped or injected into a bone cavity and then allowed to harden with the encapsulated cells dispersed throughout the structure. The natural polymer beads gradually dissolve when exposed to the body's fluids, creating a scaffold that is filled by the now released bone cells.
Commentary: This procedure appears to accelerate bone growth and is a promising area of regenerative medicine that, in the future, could improve outcomes of reconstructive and plastic surgery.
Understanding Cell Death May Bring New Life To Kidney Treatment
Source: Medical College of Georgia
Posted: April 15, 2006
Finding how two proteins conspire to get kidney cells to self-destruct when oxygen supplies are low may one day improve dismal mortality rates for ischemic renal failure, researchers say. Ischemia leads to cell suicide or apoptosis, particularly in the energy-consuming tubular cells of the kidneys
Researchers want to discover how the drug can kill kidney cells and if it is possible to prevent the death of kidney cells while destroying cancer cells. They believe this could be achieved as they understand more about the differences between healthy and cancerous cells.
Commentary: This study provides a new area of research for kidney disease and other diseases where cell death occurs.
Posted: April 15, 2006
Finding how two proteins conspire to get kidney cells to self-destruct when oxygen supplies are low may one day improve dismal mortality rates for ischemic renal failure, researchers say. Ischemia leads to cell suicide or apoptosis, particularly in the energy-consuming tubular cells of the kidneys
Researchers want to discover how the drug can kill kidney cells and if it is possible to prevent the death of kidney cells while destroying cancer cells. They believe this could be achieved as they understand more about the differences between healthy and cancerous cells.
Commentary: This study provides a new area of research for kidney disease and other diseases where cell death occurs.
Aldagen OK'd on stem cell study for CLI
Source: United Press International
Posted: April 14, 2006
Aldagen has been cleared to start a clinical trial using stem cells to develop a treatment for critical limb ischemia (CLI), a severe form of peripheral vascular disease (PVD). Scientists say the disorder is currently treated with either percutaneous or surgical revascularization, which carries a high mortality risk,
Posted: April 14, 2006
Aldagen has been cleared to start a clinical trial using stem cells to develop a treatment for critical limb ischemia (CLI), a severe form of peripheral vascular disease (PVD). Scientists say the disorder is currently treated with either percutaneous or surgical revascularization, which carries a high mortality risk,
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Placental Growth Factor May Help Body Repair Heart Attack Damage
Source: American College of Cardiology
Posted: April 14, 2006
A new study suggests that higher levels of Placental Growth Factor (PlGF), a natural substance in the body that plays a role in the growth of new blood vessels, may help reduce damage to the heart muscle.
Previous studies have shown that Placental Growth Factor (PlGF) enhances angiogenesis and arteriogenesis in ischemic tissue. It also appears to promote mobilization of flt-1-positive hematopoietic stem cells from bone marrow to the peripheral circulation.
The researchers also performed an experiment on laboratory mice. They found that in mice that underwent a procedure that interrupted coronary blood flow, similar to what happens during a heart attack, PlGF levels shot up to 23 times the levels seen in control mice.
Researchers conjectured that PlGF has potential to enhance tissue repair after acute myocardial infarction.
Commentary: Hopefully this treatment can be applied to humans to treat heartt attack patients in the future.
Posted: April 14, 2006
A new study suggests that higher levels of Placental Growth Factor (PlGF), a natural substance in the body that plays a role in the growth of new blood vessels, may help reduce damage to the heart muscle.
Previous studies have shown that Placental Growth Factor (PlGF) enhances angiogenesis and arteriogenesis in ischemic tissue. It also appears to promote mobilization of flt-1-positive hematopoietic stem cells from bone marrow to the peripheral circulation.
The researchers also performed an experiment on laboratory mice. They found that in mice that underwent a procedure that interrupted coronary blood flow, similar to what happens during a heart attack, PlGF levels shot up to 23 times the levels seen in control mice.
Researchers conjectured that PlGF has potential to enhance tissue repair after acute myocardial infarction.
Commentary: Hopefully this treatment can be applied to humans to treat heartt attack patients in the future.
Curry Coloring And Fat Mix Could Help Diabetics
Source: University Of Queensland
Posted: April 14, 2006
Researchers are developing a drug that targets liver cells to prevent their inflammation in obesity -- a common precursor to diabetes.
The technique involved coating treatment drugs in absorbable fat which formed an injectable dose that could last up to one week. The goal of the treatment is to encapsulate curcumin, an anti-inflammatory compound found in curries, and then deliver it to the liver cells to prevent them from producing inflammatory compounds.
If successful, the treatment could combat other diseases such as heart disease, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, an autoimmune disease against the skin.
Commentary: This is an innovative new approach to treating diabetes. Maybe similar approaches could lead to the development of drugs to treat other diseases.
Posted: April 14, 2006
Researchers are developing a drug that targets liver cells to prevent their inflammation in obesity -- a common precursor to diabetes.
The technique involved coating treatment drugs in absorbable fat which formed an injectable dose that could last up to one week. The goal of the treatment is to encapsulate curcumin, an anti-inflammatory compound found in curries, and then deliver it to the liver cells to prevent them from producing inflammatory compounds.
If successful, the treatment could combat other diseases such as heart disease, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, an autoimmune disease against the skin.
Commentary: This is an innovative new approach to treating diabetes. Maybe similar approaches could lead to the development of drugs to treat other diseases.
Breakthrough in Autoimmune Disease Research: Stem Cell Research Gives New Hope to Patients
Source: ABC News
Posted: April 10, 2006
Researchers at Northwestern Memorial Hospital have developed a breakthrough procedure uses a patient's stem cells to treat extremely severe cases of lupus and other autoimmune diseases. The procedure involves infuse treating a lupus patient with chemotherapy, to destroy the immune system, and then injecting them with stems cells to build a new immune system.
Commentary: Hopeufully this procedure will be an effective treatment not only for Lupus, but other immune-deficiency diseases as well. Be sure to watch the video of this story at ABCNews.com
Posted: April 10, 2006
Researchers at Northwestern Memorial Hospital have developed a breakthrough procedure uses a patient's stem cells to treat extremely severe cases of lupus and other autoimmune diseases. The procedure involves infuse treating a lupus patient with chemotherapy, to destroy the immune system, and then injecting them with stems cells to build a new immune system.
Commentary: Hopeufully this procedure will be an effective treatment not only for Lupus, but other immune-deficiency diseases as well. Be sure to watch the video of this story at ABCNews.com
Caltech Receives $2.3 Million for Stem Cell Research
Source: Pasadena Independent
Date: April 13, 2006
Date: April 13, 2006
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Scientists in U.S. to Attempt Human Cloning South Koreans Faked
Source: Bloomberg News
Date: April 13, 2006
April 13 (Bloomberg) -- American scientists plan to create stem cells that have a genetic makeup identical to that of living human adults, a feat that Korean scientists falsely claimed they accomplished last year.
U.S. researchers at Harvard University and in California said they first will create ``cloned'' human embryos in the lab by combining women donors' egg cells with DNA provided by other adults. The scientists will then isolate and extract stem cells from the embryos.
Commentary: Hopefully this experiment will be conducted under strict ethical guidelines and be peer reviewed in order to avoid the fraudulent results that occured in South Korea.
Date: April 13, 2006
April 13 (Bloomberg) -- American scientists plan to create stem cells that have a genetic makeup identical to that of living human adults, a feat that Korean scientists falsely claimed they accomplished last year.
U.S. researchers at Harvard University and in California said they first will create ``cloned'' human embryos in the lab by combining women donors' egg cells with DNA provided by other adults. The scientists will then isolate and extract stem cells from the embryos.
Commentary: Hopefully this experiment will be conducted under strict ethical guidelines and be peer reviewed in order to avoid the fraudulent results that occured in South Korea.
New Model Of p53 Regulation Proposed That Suggests Novel Anticancer Strategy
Source: Salk Institute
Posted: April 12, 2006
La Jolla, CA - Genetically engineered mice convinced scientists at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies that it was time to overhaul widely held beliefs about how a powerful tumor suppressor called p53 is controlled in cells. Their new model of p53 regulation has important implications for the development of anticancer drugs.
Posted: April 12, 2006
La Jolla, CA - Genetically engineered mice convinced scientists at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies that it was time to overhaul widely held beliefs about how a powerful tumor suppressor called p53 is controlled in cells. Their new model of p53 regulation has important implications for the development of anticancer drugs.
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Gladstone launches stem cell training program, names scholars
Source: University of California, San Francisco
Date: 11 April 2006
Date: 11 April 2006
Growth Factor-promoting Angiogenesis Expressed In Tumor Cells And Normal Neurons
Source: Cell Press
Posted: April 10, 2006
Scientists have discovered that a stem cell factor overexpressed both in brain tumor cells and in neurons following brain injury promotes tumor survival by inducing angiogenesis. The research study, published in the April issue of Cancer Cell, examines the interaction between tumor cells and surrounding tissues and may have substantial significance for design of more effective therapeutics for one of the most lethal types of tumor, malignant gliomas.
Commentary: Hopefully this research will enable stem cells to be used for cancer treatments in the future.
Posted: April 10, 2006
Scientists have discovered that a stem cell factor overexpressed both in brain tumor cells and in neurons following brain injury promotes tumor survival by inducing angiogenesis. The research study, published in the April issue of Cancer Cell, examines the interaction between tumor cells and surrounding tissues and may have substantial significance for design of more effective therapeutics for one of the most lethal types of tumor, malignant gliomas.
Commentary: Hopefully this research will enable stem cells to be used for cancer treatments in the future.
Monday, April 10, 2006
Regrow Your Own
Source: The New York Times
Posted: April 11, 2006
Here is a feature by Nicholas Wade about regenerative medicine by transforming mature cells at the site of a wound into a clump of immature cells, known as a blastema, to regrow missing limbs and organs. A few scientists, working in a relatively obscure field, believe this path to regenerative medicine may be as likely to succeed as stem cell therapy.
Posted: April 11, 2006
Here is a feature by Nicholas Wade about regenerative medicine by transforming mature cells at the site of a wound into a clump of immature cells, known as a blastema, to regrow missing limbs and organs. A few scientists, working in a relatively obscure field, believe this path to regenerative medicine may be as likely to succeed as stem cell therapy.
Stem-cell institute makes first grants: CASH POOR, IT TURNS TO FUNDRAISING
Here is more coverage about the first stem cell research grants awarded by the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine.
Calif. Stem Cell Agency Issues Grants
Here is a story on the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine awarding its first round of grants for stem cell research. The grants will go toward training stem cell researchers. This is a sign of progress in funding stem cell research on a large scale that will hopefully expedite the discovery of stem cell treatments for diseases and injuries.
Sunday, April 09, 2006
Lab-Grown Bladders Successful in Humans
Source: Los Angeles Times
Posted: April 4, 2006
Bladders grown from patients' own cells in the laboratory have been successfully implanted into patients with spina bifida and shown to function for five years or longer, scientists reported today. The breakthrough is considered a significan step toward the creaton of artificial organs.
The advancement is the first time that artificial organs more complicated than skin and bone have been implanted in humans. It is progress toward potentially growing new organs for people who have lost them to disease or injury.
Posted: April 4, 2006
Bladders grown from patients' own cells in the laboratory have been successfully implanted into patients with spina bifida and shown to function for five years or longer, scientists reported today. The breakthrough is considered a significan step toward the creaton of artificial organs.
The advancement is the first time that artificial organs more complicated than skin and bone have been implanted in humans. It is progress toward potentially growing new organs for people who have lost them to disease or injury.
Saturday, April 08, 2006
Brittlestar Provides New Model For Stem Cell Research
Source: Society for Experimental Biology
Posted: April 8, 2006
Scientists are using the brittlestar as a new model for studying stem cells, allowing them to do experiments that avoid the ethical issues associated with human and vertebrate research. The brittlestar, Amphiura filiformis, is a close relative of the starfish and can regenerate lost arms in a matter of weeks.
The researchers are particularly interested in studying the recovery of the nervous system which could have possible applications in the future for understanding and treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Commentary: This research could lead to major advancements in regenerative medicine if it can be applied to humans.
Posted: April 8, 2006
Scientists are using the brittlestar as a new model for studying stem cells, allowing them to do experiments that avoid the ethical issues associated with human and vertebrate research. The brittlestar, Amphiura filiformis, is a close relative of the starfish and can regenerate lost arms in a matter of weeks.
The researchers are particularly interested in studying the recovery of the nervous system which could have possible applications in the future for understanding and treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Commentary: This research could lead to major advancements in regenerative medicine if it can be applied to humans.
Stem Cells Could Boost Stroke Recovery. In rat studies, they also show promise against cerebral palsy
Source: HealthDay News
Posted: April 8, 2006
Summary:
Researchers say they've lessened the effects of stroke in rats by transplanting human bone marrow stem cells into the rodents' brains. The treatment also seemed to help rats fight a condition similar to human cerebral palsy. Researchers observed that movement skills in the stroke-afflicted rats improved by 25 percent, and a similar improvement in treated rats affected with a condition equivalent to human cerebral palsy after stem cell treatment.
Posted: April 8, 2006
Summary:
Researchers say they've lessened the effects of stroke in rats by transplanting human bone marrow stem cells into the rodents' brains. The treatment also seemed to help rats fight a condition similar to human cerebral palsy. Researchers observed that movement skills in the stroke-afflicted rats improved by 25 percent, and a similar improvement in treated rats affected with a condition equivalent to human cerebral palsy after stem cell treatment.
See Blind Mice: Algae gene makes sightless eyes sense light
Source: Science News
Posted: April 8, 2006
Christen Brownlee
Scientists have prompted mouse-eye cells that aren't normally light sensitive to respond to light. This strategy could lead to new treatments for retinitis pigmentosa and related diseases, which cause blindness in 1 in 3,000 people worldwide.
To restore vision in people who have lost these cells, scientists have suggested several strategies, such as growing rods and cones from stem cells or replacing them with synthetic chips that sense light. But so far, these approaches face myriad challenges. Neuroscientists say these preliminary findings offer a novel approach to treat blinding diseases.
Posted: April 8, 2006
Christen Brownlee
Scientists have prompted mouse-eye cells that aren't normally light sensitive to respond to light. This strategy could lead to new treatments for retinitis pigmentosa and related diseases, which cause blindness in 1 in 3,000 people worldwide.
To restore vision in people who have lost these cells, scientists have suggested several strategies, such as growing rods and cones from stem cells or replacing them with synthetic chips that sense light. But so far, these approaches face myriad challenges. Neuroscientists say these preliminary findings offer a novel approach to treat blinding diseases.
Friday, April 07, 2006
Mutation In Blood Stem Cells Provides Clues To Cancer Development
Source: University of California - San Diego
Posted: April 7, 2006
A mutation in blood stem cells occurs in patients with a blood disorder called polycythemia vera (PV), scientists at the Moores Cancer Center at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and the Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine and Comprehensive Cancer Center at Stanford University School of Medicine have confirmed.
The discovery suggests that development of a very specific inhibitor at the stem-cell level, to interfere with the pathway leading to the disease, could improve treatment for the cancer-causing disorder. The advance may enable scientist fight the disease by destroying cancerous stem cells while still enabling normal stem cell production, protection and differentiation and health of stem cells.
Posted: April 7, 2006
A mutation in blood stem cells occurs in patients with a blood disorder called polycythemia vera (PV), scientists at the Moores Cancer Center at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and the Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine and Comprehensive Cancer Center at Stanford University School of Medicine have confirmed.
The discovery suggests that development of a very specific inhibitor at the stem-cell level, to interfere with the pathway leading to the disease, could improve treatment for the cancer-causing disorder. The advance may enable scientist fight the disease by destroying cancerous stem cells while still enabling normal stem cell production, protection and differentiation and health of stem cells.
Nano-patterns guide stem cell development
16:55 07 April 2006
NewScientist.com news service
Tom Simonite
Stem cells can be prompted to develop into bone, instead of muscle or cartilage tissue, if they are grown on a substrate etched with nanoscopic patterns – and no added chemicals – researchers have found.
The discovery could lead to longer-lasting artificial implants that are nano-engineered to encourage suitable tissue to develop around them, experts say.
Commentary: Hopefully this advance will lead to improved treatments for bone diseases including osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.
NewScientist.com news service
Tom Simonite
Stem cells can be prompted to develop into bone, instead of muscle or cartilage tissue, if they are grown on a substrate etched with nanoscopic patterns – and no added chemicals – researchers have found.
The discovery could lead to longer-lasting artificial implants that are nano-engineered to encourage suitable tissue to develop around them, experts say.
Commentary: Hopefully this advance will lead to improved treatments for bone diseases including osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.
Techniques Push Stem Cells to Repair Damaged Nerves: Potential breakthroughs from marrow transplants and seaweed
Source: HealthDay News
Posted: April 7, 2006
FRIDAY, April 7 (HealthDay News) -- Two new studies suggest that use of cells derived from bone marrow, as well as a seaweed-derived product called hydrogel, may prompt stem cells to repair nerve damage caused by stroke or spinal cord injury.
Posted: April 7, 2006
FRIDAY, April 7 (HealthDay News) -- Two new studies suggest that use of cells derived from bone marrow, as well as a seaweed-derived product called hydrogel, may prompt stem cells to repair nerve damage caused by stroke or spinal cord injury.
High hopes for AIDS research: Experimental treatment fortifies the body's own stem cells with an enzyme that may block the relentless advance of the v
Source: San Francisco Chronicle
Date: Friday, April 7, 2006
Sabin Russell, Chronicle Medical Writer
An experimental therapy, if proved successful, could enable individuals infected with HIV or AIDS to control the virus and maintain their health without having to spend a lifetime taking costly and potentially toxic drugs. The goal of this experiment -- which combines elements of genetic engineering, gene therapy and stem cell science -- is to create a kind of parallel immune system that is fortified against the AIDS virus. Scientist believe that this therapy, while not a cure, could lead to greater control of HIV.
Date: Friday, April 7, 2006
Sabin Russell, Chronicle Medical Writer
An experimental therapy, if proved successful, could enable individuals infected with HIV or AIDS to control the virus and maintain their health without having to spend a lifetime taking costly and potentially toxic drugs. The goal of this experiment -- which combines elements of genetic engineering, gene therapy and stem cell science -- is to create a kind of parallel immune system that is fortified against the AIDS virus. Scientist believe that this therapy, while not a cure, could lead to greater control of HIV.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Stem Cell Transplants Improve Recovery In Animal Models For Stroke, Cerebral Palsy
Source: Medical College of Georgia
Posted: April 7, 2006
Summary:
A single dose of adult donor stem cells given to animals that have neurological damage similar to that experienced by adults with a stroke or newborns with cerebral palsy can significantly enhance recovery from these types of injuries, researchers say.
Posted: April 7, 2006
Summary:
A single dose of adult donor stem cells given to animals that have neurological damage similar to that experienced by adults with a stroke or newborns with cerebral palsy can significantly enhance recovery from these types of injuries, researchers say.
Umbilical Cord Blood: The Future of Stem Cell Research?
Here is a feature from National Geographic about using Umblical stem cells to treat stroke patients, like me.
Stem Cells Can Repair Torn Tendons Or Ligaments
Source: Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Posted: April 5, 2006
Researchers engineered mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which reside in the bone marrow and fat tissues, to express a protein that enabled cells implanted into a torn Achilles tendons of rats to go to the site of the injury and repair the tendon.
Commentary: This research could lead to effective treatments for chronic pain or athletic injuries.
Posted: April 5, 2006
Researchers engineered mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which reside in the bone marrow and fat tissues, to express a protein that enabled cells implanted into a torn Achilles tendons of rats to go to the site of the injury and repair the tendon.
Commentary: This research could lead to effective treatments for chronic pain or athletic injuries.
Researchers Target Cancer Stem Cells' Unique Vulnerability
Source: Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Posted: April 5, 2006
New research has revealed a difference that distinguishes cells that keep the blood system healthy from the stem cells that make leukemia lethal, scientists report. This advance shows that the stem cells promoting leukemia can be killed.
Posted: April 5, 2006
New research has revealed a difference that distinguishes cells that keep the blood system healthy from the stem cells that make leukemia lethal, scientists report. This advance shows that the stem cells promoting leukemia can be killed.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Bone loss seen in kids after stem cell therapy
Source: Reuters
Posted: Wed Apr 5, 2006 12:40 PM ET
By David Douglas
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - A type of stem cell therapy called hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) often leads to a reduction in bone formation in children, according to Minneapolis-based researchers. HCT is used to treat cancers of the blood such as leukemia.
Posted: Wed Apr 5, 2006 12:40 PM ET
By David Douglas
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - A type of stem cell therapy called hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) often leads to a reduction in bone formation in children, according to Minneapolis-based researchers. HCT is used to treat cancers of the blood such as leukemia.
Stem cell therapy a world first
Source: Herald Sun
Date: April 6, 2006
Michelle Pountney, health reporter
A MELBOURNE man is the first person in the world whose own stem cells are being used to try to mend a broken leg. Bone marrow cells were harvested from a patient's pelvis. Adult stem cells were from other bone cells, and mesenchymal precursor cells-cells that cann form tissues such as bone cartilage and heart-were isolated and grown.
Date: April 6, 2006
Michelle Pountney, health reporter
A MELBOURNE man is the first person in the world whose own stem cells are being used to try to mend a broken leg. Bone marrow cells were harvested from a patient's pelvis. Adult stem cells were from other bone cells, and mesenchymal precursor cells-cells that cann form tissues such as bone cartilage and heart-were isolated and grown.
'Prosthetic' retinal cells let blind mice see light
Source: Cell Press
Posted: April 5, 2006
Summary:
In an experiment that could offer a new pathway to restoring vision in people with inherited retinal degeneration, researchers have engineered cells in the eye to be light sensitive that were not before. Using a harmless virus, they introduced a gene for a light-sensitive protein into "inner retinal neurons" in a strain of mice with photoreceptor deficiency that resembles the defect in such inherited human disorders as retinitis pigmentosa.
Posted: April 5, 2006
Summary:
In an experiment that could offer a new pathway to restoring vision in people with inherited retinal degeneration, researchers have engineered cells in the eye to be light sensitive that were not before. Using a harmless virus, they introduced a gene for a light-sensitive protein into "inner retinal neurons" in a strain of mice with photoreceptor deficiency that resembles the defect in such inherited human disorders as retinitis pigmentosa.
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Stem cells repair torn tendons, ligaments
Source: United Press International
Posted: April 4, 2006
JERUSALEM, April 4 (UPI) -- Hebrew University scientists in Jerusalem say they've determined adult stem cells might one day be able to repair tendon and ligament injuries.
Posted: April 4, 2006
JERUSALEM, April 4 (UPI) -- Hebrew University scientists in Jerusalem say they've determined adult stem cells might one day be able to repair tendon and ligament injuries.
Factor Stimulates Cartilage Growth From Stem Cells
Source: Duke University Medical Center
Date: April 4, 2006
Summary:
A novel growth factor significantly improves the ability of specialized stem cells derived from human fat to be transformed into cartilage cells, according to Duke University Medical Center and Pratt School of Engineering researchers.
Date: April 4, 2006
Summary:
A novel growth factor significantly improves the ability of specialized stem cells derived from human fat to be transformed into cartilage cells, according to Duke University Medical Center and Pratt School of Engineering researchers.
First Bladders Grown in Lab Transplanted Breakthrough Shows Promise for Creating Other Human Organs
Source: Washington Post
Date: April 4, 2006
By Rick Weiss
Washington Post Staff Writer
Tuesday, April 4, 2006; Page A01
Researchers said yesterday that they have grown complete urinary bladders in a laboratory and transplanted them into patients, improving their health and achieving a Holy Grail of medicine: the first cultivation of working replacements for failing solid organs in people.
Date: April 4, 2006
By Rick Weiss
Washington Post Staff Writer
Tuesday, April 4, 2006; Page A01
Researchers said yesterday that they have grown complete urinary bladders in a laboratory and transplanted them into patients, improving their health and achieving a Holy Grail of medicine: the first cultivation of working replacements for failing solid organs in people.
Wake Forest Physician Reports First Human Recipients Of Laboratory-grown Organs
Source: Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center
Posted: April 4, 2006
The first human recipients of laboratory-grown organs were reported by Anthony Atala, M.D., director of the Institute for Regenerative Medicine at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. In The Lancet, Atala describes long-term success in children and teenagers who received bladders grown from their own cells. Since the engineered bladders were grown from the patients’ own cells, there is no risk of rejection. Scientists hope that laboratory-grown organs can one day help solve the shortage of donated organs available for transplantation.
Posted: April 4, 2006
The first human recipients of laboratory-grown organs were reported by Anthony Atala, M.D., director of the Institute for Regenerative Medicine at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. In The Lancet, Atala describes long-term success in children and teenagers who received bladders grown from their own cells. Since the engineered bladders were grown from the patients’ own cells, there is no risk of rejection. Scientists hope that laboratory-grown organs can one day help solve the shortage of donated organs available for transplantation.
Bladders Built in the Lab: Cells, Plastic Shell Combine
Source: Wall Street Journal
Posted: April 4, 2006
Summary:
Here is a recent story about the creation of a human bladder in the laboratory using patients' own cells to restore autonomic bladder function
Posted: April 4, 2006
Summary:
Here is a recent story about the creation of a human bladder in the laboratory using patients' own cells to restore autonomic bladder function
Monday, April 03, 2006
Scientists rebuild bladder in 7 patients
Source: Associated Press
Posted: Monday, April 3, 2006; 6:52 PM
Summary:
The Associated Press reports on the creation of a human bladder using live human tissue:
"For the first time, scientists have rebuilt a complex human organ, the bladder, in seven young patients using live tissue grown in the lab - a breakthrough that could hold exciting promise for someday regenerating ailing hearts and other organs. Only simpler tissues -- skin, bone, and cartilage -- have been lab-grown and transplanted in the past. This is the first time that a more intricate organ has been mostly replaced with tissue grown from the patient's own cells."
Posted: Monday, April 3, 2006; 6:52 PM
Summary:
The Associated Press reports on the creation of a human bladder using live human tissue:
"For the first time, scientists have rebuilt a complex human organ, the bladder, in seven young patients using live tissue grown in the lab - a breakthrough that could hold exciting promise for someday regenerating ailing hearts and other organs. Only simpler tissues -- skin, bone, and cartilage -- have been lab-grown and transplanted in the past. This is the first time that a more intricate organ has been mostly replaced with tissue grown from the patient's own cells."
On a Scaffold in the Lab, Doctors Build a Bladder
Source: The New York Times
By LAWRENCE K. ALTMAN
Published: April 4, 2006
Bladders created in the laboratory from a patient's own cells and then implanted in seven young people have achieved good long-term results in all of them, a team of researchers reported yesterday in a medical journal.
The hope is that someday the experimental reconstruction procedure will be standard for larger numbers of patients, including adults, and for those with other kinds of bladder damage.
By LAWRENCE K. ALTMAN
Published: April 4, 2006
Bladders created in the laboratory from a patient's own cells and then implanted in seven young people have achieved good long-term results in all of them, a team of researchers reported yesterday in a medical journal.
The hope is that someday the experimental reconstruction procedure will be standard for larger numbers of patients, including adults, and for those with other kinds of bladder damage.
Bio-engineered bladders successful in patients
00:01 04 April 2006
NewScientist.com news service
Roxanne Khamsi
Bladders engineered in the laboratory from patients' own cells and then implanted into the body have succeeded in their first clinical trial.
The feat was accomplished by Anthony Atala, at Wake Forest University Medical School in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and his colleagues. He says that while scientists have had success with skin transplants grown on scaffolds in the past, this is the first time they have grown and transplanted a discrete, complex organ.
NewScientist.com news service
Roxanne Khamsi
Bladders engineered in the laboratory from patients' own cells and then implanted into the body have succeeded in their first clinical trial.
The feat was accomplished by Anthony Atala, at Wake Forest University Medical School in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and his colleagues. He says that while scientists have had success with skin transplants grown on scaffolds in the past, this is the first time they have grown and transplanted a discrete, complex organ.
Patients receive first custom-made bladders
Source: Reuters
Posted: Mon Apr 3, 2006 11:32 PM BST
By Maggie Fox, Health and Science Correspondent
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Custom-made bladders grown from patients' own cells have been successfully transplanted and work, in some cases for years, scientists reported on Monday.
Writing in a special report in the Lancet medical journal, they described the cases of seven patients who had new bladders engineered from a plug of tissue grown from their own, dysfunctional bladders.
Posted: Mon Apr 3, 2006 11:32 PM BST
By Maggie Fox, Health and Science Correspondent
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Custom-made bladders grown from patients' own cells have been successfully transplanted and work, in some cases for years, scientists reported on Monday.
Writing in a special report in the Lancet medical journal, they described the cases of seven patients who had new bladders engineered from a plug of tissue grown from their own, dysfunctional bladders.
Doctors grow organs from patients' own cells: Seven living with bladders from new process
Source: CNN.com
Posted: Monday, April 3, 2006; Posted: 6:32 p.m. EDT (22:32 GMT)
A new procedure pioneered at Wake Forest University in North Carolina has enabled scientists to grow new bladders from patients' own cells, which were then transplanted back into the patients' bodies.
Posted: Monday, April 3, 2006; Posted: 6:32 p.m. EDT (22:32 GMT)
A new procedure pioneered at Wake Forest University in North Carolina has enabled scientists to grow new bladders from patients' own cells, which were then transplanted back into the patients' bodies.
Sunday, April 02, 2006
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Liver Cancer Linked To Cellular Repair Pathway
Source: Duke University Medical Center
Posted: April 2, 2006
The unchecked activity of a cell signaling pathway crucial in embryonic development and the liver's response to injury leads to liver cancer, researchers from Duke University Medical Center and John Hopkins University School of Medicine have found.
Because the pathway, called Hedgehog, is present only in immature, stem-like liver cells, the discovery offers hope for targeted treatment of liver cancer. Laboratory experiments have shown that blocking the Hedgehog pathway kills cancer cells but leaves mature healthy liver cells intact. Treating patients with medications to interrupt the pathway would likely eliminate the cancer cells while sparing healthy liver tissue, said Jason Sicklick, M.D., a postdoctoral fellow at Duke and lead author of the study.
Posted: April 2, 2006
The unchecked activity of a cell signaling pathway crucial in embryonic development and the liver's response to injury leads to liver cancer, researchers from Duke University Medical Center and John Hopkins University School of Medicine have found.
Because the pathway, called Hedgehog, is present only in immature, stem-like liver cells, the discovery offers hope for targeted treatment of liver cancer. Laboratory experiments have shown that blocking the Hedgehog pathway kills cancer cells but leaves mature healthy liver cells intact. Treating patients with medications to interrupt the pathway would likely eliminate the cancer cells while sparing healthy liver tissue, said Jason Sicklick, M.D., a postdoctoral fellow at Duke and lead author of the study.
US company claims to make stem cells from testes
By Maggie Fox, Health and Science Correspondent
Reuters
Saturday, April 1, 2006; 3:12 PM
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - US researchers said on Saturday they had transformed immature cells from men's testicles into powerful stem cells, which they then coaxed into becoming nerve, heart and bone cells.
Commentary: Hopefully these cells can be turned into effective treatments for diseases and injuries.
Reuters
Saturday, April 1, 2006; 3:12 PM
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - US researchers said on Saturday they had transformed immature cells from men's testicles into powerful stem cells, which they then coaxed into becoming nerve, heart and bone cells.
Commentary: Hopefully these cells can be turned into effective treatments for diseases and injuries.
New York Times, 3/31/06: Editorial: "The States Confront Stem Cells"
Here is an editorial from the New York Times about state-funded stem cell research.
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