Source: Los Angeles Times
Posted: August 31, 2006, 9:41 PM PDT
Summary:
Scientists for the first time have genetically modified tumor-fighting immune cells, allowing patients to rid themselves of an aggressive form of cancer, according to a new study. The technique, used to cure two patients with advanced melanoma, paves the way for a new approach to fighting cancer by harnessing — and boosting — the body's immune system instead of relying on toxic chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
Commentary: Hopefully this new therapy will successfully treat cancer patients.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Backtracking on stem-cell advance: Embryos were destroyed
Source: Philadelphia Inquirer
Posted: August 31, 2006
Summary:
PHILADELPHIA - The California biotech company that grabbed headlines last week for sparing human embryos while creating precious stem cells in fact destroyed all 16 embryos used in the experiments.
Advanced Cell Technology vice president Robert Lanza, senior author of the research, was widely quoted as saying he hoped the new embryo-sparing approach to making stem cells would overcome ethical objections and expand federal funding for the research.
Supplemental data submitted with the paper revealed that Lanza's team did not fully use the approach -- it just extrapolated from less ambitious experiments.
Posted: August 31, 2006
Summary:
PHILADELPHIA - The California biotech company that grabbed headlines last week for sparing human embryos while creating precious stem cells in fact destroyed all 16 embryos used in the experiments.
Advanced Cell Technology vice president Robert Lanza, senior author of the research, was widely quoted as saying he hoped the new embryo-sparing approach to making stem cells would overcome ethical objections and expand federal funding for the research.
Supplemental data submitted with the paper revealed that Lanza's team did not fully use the approach -- it just extrapolated from less ambitious experiments.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Researchers Find Key Player In Immune System Regulation
Source: Dartmouth College
Date: August 30, 2006
Summary:
Studies led by Dartmouth Medical School researchers have revealed a crucial link in how the immune system works. In a study published online on August 20 in the journal Nature, the researchers found that mast cells, known for their role in allergy reactions such as watery eyes and runny noses, are connected to the activity of regulatory T cells, which suppress immune responses. The researchers say theirs is the first study to find that mast cells mediate immune system suppression.
Commentary: Maybe finding this will provide researchers with new insights into immune diseases and enable them to develop new treatments for them.
Date: August 30, 2006
Summary:
Studies led by Dartmouth Medical School researchers have revealed a crucial link in how the immune system works. In a study published online on August 20 in the journal Nature, the researchers found that mast cells, known for their role in allergy reactions such as watery eyes and runny noses, are connected to the activity of regulatory T cells, which suppress immune responses. The researchers say theirs is the first study to find that mast cells mediate immune system suppression.
Commentary: Maybe finding this will provide researchers with new insights into immune diseases and enable them to develop new treatments for them.
Baby teeth show promise in stem cell research
Source: The Greeley Tribune - Greely, Colorado
Posted: August 30, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the National Institutes of Health were able to extract "intermediate" stem cells from recently exfoliated (lost) deciduous (baby) teeth. Stem cells of exfoliated deciduous teeth are considered "intermediate," meaning that if the stem cells are extracted soon after the loosening of the tooth, they can be grown into tooth-forming cells (odontoblasts), bone cells, fat and even nerve cells. These intermediate stem cells are more versatile than the adult ones, and a good deal less ethically controversial. Rresearchers are studying ways to use them to grow new teeth to replace lost ones, grow new bone to repair the damage of gum disease and to possibly make dental implants that would be better accepted by the human body.
Posted: August 30, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the National Institutes of Health were able to extract "intermediate" stem cells from recently exfoliated (lost) deciduous (baby) teeth. Stem cells of exfoliated deciduous teeth are considered "intermediate," meaning that if the stem cells are extracted soon after the loosening of the tooth, they can be grown into tooth-forming cells (odontoblasts), bone cells, fat and even nerve cells. These intermediate stem cells are more versatile than the adult ones, and a good deal less ethically controversial. Rresearchers are studying ways to use them to grow new teeth to replace lost ones, grow new bone to repair the damage of gum disease and to possibly make dental implants that would be better accepted by the human body.
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Frog provides insight into making specialised cells from stem cells
Source: Institute for Stem Cell Research
Posted: August 27, 2006
Summary:
The African clawed frog could help stem cell scientists in obtaining insulin-releasing cells of the pancreas from stem cells, new research published in the latest issue of the journal Development suggests.
Posted: August 27, 2006
Summary:
The African clawed frog could help stem cell scientists in obtaining insulin-releasing cells of the pancreas from stem cells, new research published in the latest issue of the journal Development suggests.
Friday, August 25, 2006
Bone marrow-derived stem cell therapeutics developer BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics has announced plans to expand its R&D program to include the treatme
Source: Pharmaceutical Business Review
Posted: August 25, 2006
Summary:
Bone marrow-derived stem cell therapeutics developer BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics has announced plans to expand its R&D program to include the treatment of the effects of stroke.
Posted: August 25, 2006
Summary:
Bone marrow-derived stem cell therapeutics developer BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics has announced plans to expand its R&D program to include the treatment of the effects of stroke.
Researchers Restore Memory Lost In Mice With Alzheimer's
Source: Columbia University Medical Center
Posted: August 25, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center have successfully restored normal memory and synaptic function in mice suffering from Alzheimer's disease. Scientists have identified an enzyme that is required for normal cognition but that is impaired in a mouse model of Alzheimer's. They discovered that mice regained the ability to form new memories when the enzyme's function was elevated. The research suggests that boosting the function of this enzyme, known as ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (Uch-L1), may provide a promising strategy for battling Alzheimer's disease, and perhaps reversing its effects.
Commentary: Hopefully this enzyme can be applied to human patients with Alzheimer's Diseases and reduce or eliminate the physical and cognitive decline commonly associated with it.
Posted: August 25, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center have successfully restored normal memory and synaptic function in mice suffering from Alzheimer's disease. Scientists have identified an enzyme that is required for normal cognition but that is impaired in a mouse model of Alzheimer's. They discovered that mice regained the ability to form new memories when the enzyme's function was elevated. The research suggests that boosting the function of this enzyme, known as ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (Uch-L1), may provide a promising strategy for battling Alzheimer's disease, and perhaps reversing its effects.
Commentary: Hopefully this enzyme can be applied to human patients with Alzheimer's Diseases and reduce or eliminate the physical and cognitive decline commonly associated with it.
Touch alone makes stem cells differentiate
Source: NewScientist.com news service
Posted: 14:33 25 August 2006
Summary:
Researchers have managed to specify the type of cell an adult stem cell will become by altering the stiffness of the material they are grown on. Bone, nerve and muscle cell lines have been selectively initiated from human bone marrow cells by changing the physical consistency of the growth medium. Previous studies have demonstrated that biochemical signalling strongly influences stem cell development. Now, researchers have shown for the first time that in the absence of any chemical signalling, adult bone marrow stems cells will begin to differentiate into unique cell types based solely on how tough the surrounding "tissue" is.
Commentary: Maybe this discovery will enable researchers to transform stem cells into specific body cell types to treat medical conditions, diseases and injuries.
Posted: 14:33 25 August 2006
Summary:
Researchers have managed to specify the type of cell an adult stem cell will become by altering the stiffness of the material they are grown on. Bone, nerve and muscle cell lines have been selectively initiated from human bone marrow cells by changing the physical consistency of the growth medium. Previous studies have demonstrated that biochemical signalling strongly influences stem cell development. Now, researchers have shown for the first time that in the absence of any chemical signalling, adult bone marrow stems cells will begin to differentiate into unique cell types based solely on how tough the surrounding "tissue" is.
Commentary: Maybe this discovery will enable researchers to transform stem cells into specific body cell types to treat medical conditions, diseases and injuries.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Embryonic stemcells: New research seeks to ease ethical storm
Source: Agence France Presse
Posted: August 24, 2006 3:14 PM ET
Summary:
New research into embryonic stem cells has sought to ease the ethical storm, fiercest in the United States, that swirls around a revolutionary but still untested technology for reversing degenerative disease.
Posted: August 24, 2006 3:14 PM ET
Summary:
New research into embryonic stem cells has sought to ease the ethical storm, fiercest in the United States, that swirls around a revolutionary but still untested technology for reversing degenerative disease.
Stem Cells Grown Without Destroying Human Embryos, Scientists Say
Source: National Geographic News
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Scientists announced that new lines of human embryonic stem cells can be created without destroying embryos. A research team successfully plucked single cells from living embryos and used them to grow more stem cells. The embryos all survived the procedure. Scientists hope the results will soon lead to the release of U.S. federal funding for embryonic stem cell research.
Commentary: Hopefully this breakthrough will lead to increased federal funding of stem cell research and accelerate the discovery of treatments for diseases, injuries and medical conditions.
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Scientists announced that new lines of human embryonic stem cells can be created without destroying embryos. A research team successfully plucked single cells from living embryos and used them to grow more stem cells. The embryos all survived the procedure. Scientists hope the results will soon lead to the release of U.S. federal funding for embryonic stem cell research.
Commentary: Hopefully this breakthrough will lead to increased federal funding of stem cell research and accelerate the discovery of treatments for diseases, injuries and medical conditions.
Adult stem cells are touchy-feely, need environmental clues
Source: University of Pennsylvania
Posted: August 24, 2006
Summary:
A certain type of adult stem cell can turn into bone, muscle, neurons or other types of tissue depending on the "feel" of its physical environment, according to researchers at the University of Pennsylvania. The researchers discovered that mesenchymal stem cells, which regularly reside in the bone marrow as part of the body's natural regenerative mechanism, depend on physical clues from their local environment in order to transform into different types of tissue. The researchers were even able to manipulate stem cells by changing the firmness of the gel on which they were grown. The researchers believe that their findings could change the way in which people work with stem cells.
Commentary: Maybe this discovery will hasten scientists' ability to transform stem cell in to specific cell and tissue types.
Posted: August 24, 2006
Summary:
A certain type of adult stem cell can turn into bone, muscle, neurons or other types of tissue depending on the "feel" of its physical environment, according to researchers at the University of Pennsylvania. The researchers discovered that mesenchymal stem cells, which regularly reside in the bone marrow as part of the body's natural regenerative mechanism, depend on physical clues from their local environment in order to transform into different types of tissue. The researchers were even able to manipulate stem cells by changing the firmness of the gel on which they were grown. The researchers believe that their findings could change the way in which people work with stem cells.
Commentary: Maybe this discovery will hasten scientists' ability to transform stem cell in to specific cell and tissue types.
New Stem Cell Method Safe for Embryo: Researchers Say New Technique May Help End Ethical Debate
Source: WebMD Medical News
Posted: August 24, 2006
Summary:
Stem cells can be harvested without harming the embryos that donate them, Advanced Cell Technology scientists report. The stem cells are plucked from embryos using a technique used to test the genetic health of preimplant embryos. The stem cells can then be grown into any other kind of human cell.
Posted: August 24, 2006
Summary:
Stem cells can be harvested without harming the embryos that donate them, Advanced Cell Technology scientists report. The stem cells are plucked from embryos using a technique used to test the genetic health of preimplant embryos. The stem cells can then be grown into any other kind of human cell.
'Pretty big technical leap' avoids destroying embryos
Source: San Francisco Chronicle
Posted: August 24, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have discovered a new way to produce stem cells without destroying human embryos, reshaping ethical arguments that have threatened to stymie experiments in regenerative medicine.
Posted: August 24, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have discovered a new way to produce stem cells without destroying human embryos, reshaping ethical arguments that have threatened to stymie experiments in regenerative medicine.
Advanced Cell Technology Announces Technique to Generate Human Embryonic Stem Cells that Maintains Developmental Potential of Embryo
Source: Advanced Cell Technology
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: ACTC.OB) today reported that company scientists have successfully generated human embryonic stem cells (hES cells) using an approach that does not harm embryos. The technique is reported in an article appearing online (ahead of print) in the journal Nature. The article describes a method for deriving stem cells from human blastomeres with a single-cell biopsy technique called Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD).
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: ACTC.OB) today reported that company scientists have successfully generated human embryonic stem cells (hES cells) using an approach that does not harm embryos. The technique is reported in an article appearing online (ahead of print) in the journal Nature. The article describes a method for deriving stem cells from human blastomeres with a single-cell biopsy technique called Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD).
An ethics breakthrough on stem cells?
Source: Philadelphia Inquirer
Posted: August 24, 2006
Summary:
An ethics breakthrough on stem cells?A California biotech company has developed a way to generate human embryonic stem-cell colonies without intentionally destroying embryos. This story also examines the potential problems that could be associated with the results of this study.
Posted: August 24, 2006
Summary:
An ethics breakthrough on stem cells?A California biotech company has developed a way to generate human embryonic stem-cell colonies without intentionally destroying embryos. This story also examines the potential problems that could be associated with the results of this study.
Embryos spared in stem cell creation
Source: USA Today
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have found a way to create human stem cells from a single cell — without harming embryos. But this discovery may not eliminate the concerns of those who have opposed stem cell research.
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have found a way to create human stem cells from a single cell — without harming embryos. But this discovery may not eliminate the concerns of those who have opposed stem cell research.
New stem cell method keeps embryos and debate alive: Breakthrough lauded by many as a step toward ending impasse
Source: Houston Chronicle
Posted: Aug. 24, 2006
Summary:
A California biotechnology company says it has developed a way of extracting stem cells from human embryos without destroying the embryo, a potential solution to the political and ethical impasse holding back the cutting-edge science.
Posted: Aug. 24, 2006
Summary:
A California biotechnology company says it has developed a way of extracting stem cells from human embryos without destroying the embryo, a potential solution to the political and ethical impasse holding back the cutting-edge science.
U.S. scientists make strides on stem cells: New method preserves embryos, stirs hope for funding advocates
Source: The Star-Ledger
Posted: August 24, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have discovered a new way to create stem cells without destroying human embryos, but there is skepticism about whether the procedure will end the ideological gridlock over federal funding for research. The new technique was reported online yesterday in the journal Nature and could forever change the multibillion-dollar medical-research industry.
Posted: August 24, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have discovered a new way to create stem cells without destroying human embryos, but there is skepticism about whether the procedure will end the ideological gridlock over federal funding for research. The new technique was reported online yesterday in the journal Nature and could forever change the multibillion-dollar medical-research industry.
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
STANFORD EXPERTS CITE CONCERNS WITH NEW METHOD OF DERIVING EMBRYONIC STEM CELLS
Source: Stanford University Medical Center
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
STANFORD, Calif. — Stem cell experts at the Stanford University School of Medicine cited several concerns regarding a newly published method of generating human embryonic stem cells without destroying the embryo.
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
STANFORD, Calif. — Stem cell experts at the Stanford University School of Medicine cited several concerns regarding a newly published method of generating human embryonic stem cells without destroying the embryo.
Firm Creates Stem Cells Without Hurting Embryos
Source: NationaL Public Radio
Posted: August 23, 2006
Scientists unveiled a new technique they say could break the political gridlock over stem cell research.
Posted: August 23, 2006
Scientists unveiled a new technique they say could break the political gridlock over stem cell research.
Analysis: Embryo-safe stem cells
Source: United Press International
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary
Advanced Cell Technology announced that its researchers have developed a technique to harvest human embryonic stem cells without harming embryos, an advance that could remove ethical objections to the research.
Commentary: Hopefully this new method of stem cell derivation can be successfully replicated and proven effective to remove the ethical controversy surrounding embryonic stem cell research.
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary
Advanced Cell Technology announced that its researchers have developed a technique to harvest human embryonic stem cells without harming embryos, an advance that could remove ethical objections to the research.
Commentary: Hopefully this new method of stem cell derivation can be successfully replicated and proven effective to remove the ethical controversy surrounding embryonic stem cell research.
Embryonic stem cells without embryo death
Source: NewScientist.com news service
Posted: 23 August 2006
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology, a biotechnology company in the field of stem cell research, has succeeded in deriving the cells from embryos without killing them, raising hopes that President Bush will reconsider his veto on federal funding for such work. The researchers employed a technique used in pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) in which a single cell or “blastomere” is removed from the ball of eight to 10 cells that comprise the early embryo. The researchers created a stem cell line by removing one or two cells from an early embryo so it would still be usable.
Posted: 23 August 2006
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology, a biotechnology company in the field of stem cell research, has succeeded in deriving the cells from embryos without killing them, raising hopes that President Bush will reconsider his veto on federal funding for such work. The researchers employed a technique used in pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) in which a single cell or “blastomere” is removed from the ball of eight to 10 cells that comprise the early embryo. The researchers created a stem cell line by removing one or two cells from an early embryo so it would still be usable.
Scientific Sidestep? Researchers say that they have found a way to produce stem-cell lines without destroying human embryos.
Source: Newsweek
Posted: August 23, 2006 12:18 a.m. PT
This is a Newsweek feature on the announcement by Advanced Cell Technology that it extracted single embryonic stem cells without destroying the embryo.
Posted: August 23, 2006 12:18 a.m. PT
This is a Newsweek feature on the announcement by Advanced Cell Technology that it extracted single embryonic stem cells without destroying the embryo.
Scientists Harvest Stem Cells Without Destroying Embryo:Breakthrough technique might get around moral issues, experts say
Source: HealthDay News
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have succeeded in generating new lines of human embryonic stem cells without destroying the embryo. The breakthrough may enable scientists to circumvent the ban on federal funding of stem cell research, paving the way for gains in treating or curing diseases such as diabetes, spinal injury and Alzheimer's disease.
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have succeeded in generating new lines of human embryonic stem cells without destroying the embryo. The breakthrough may enable scientists to circumvent the ban on federal funding of stem cell research, paving the way for gains in treating or curing diseases such as diabetes, spinal injury and Alzheimer's disease.
Deriving Stem Cells Without Killing Embryo
Source: Medical News Today
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Scientists from Advanced Cell Technology of Worcester, Massachusetts, USA, have succeeded in deriving stem cells from mouse embryos without killing them. The discovery could end the ethical debate over embryonic stem cell research.
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Scientists from Advanced Cell Technology of Worcester, Massachusetts, USA, have succeeded in deriving stem cells from mouse embryos without killing them. The discovery could end the ethical debate over embryonic stem cell research.
Firm makes "ethical" embryo stem cells
Source: Reuters
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology, A Massachusetts company, announced it has developed a way to make human embryonic stem cells without harming the original embryo, a finding it said could dispel ethical objections to promising medical research using such cells. The scientists used a method already employed in fertility treatments to remove one cell from a human embryo without harming it. Then they grew stem cells from that single cell.
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology, A Massachusetts company, announced it has developed a way to make human embryonic stem cells without harming the original embryo, a finding it said could dispel ethical objections to promising medical research using such cells. The scientists used a method already employed in fertility treatments to remove one cell from a human embryo without harming it. Then they grew stem cells from that single cell.
New Method Makes Embryo-Safe Stem Cells
Source: Associated Press
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology, a biotech company in the field of stem cell research, has found a new way of making stem cells without destroying embryos, touting it as a way to defuse one of the country's fiercest political and ethical debates. The new method works by taking an embryo at a very early stage of development and removing a single cell, which can be coaxed into spawning an embryonic stem cell line. With only one cell removed, the rest of the embryo retains its full potential for development.
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology, a biotech company in the field of stem cell research, has found a new way of making stem cells without destroying embryos, touting it as a way to defuse one of the country's fiercest political and ethical debates. The new method works by taking an embryo at a very early stage of development and removing a single cell, which can be coaxed into spawning an embryonic stem cell line. With only one cell removed, the rest of the embryo retains its full potential for development.
New Stem Cell Method Avoids Destroying Embryos
Source: New York Times
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Biologists have developed a technique for establishing colonies of human embryonic stem cells without destroying embryos, a method that, if confirmed in other laboratories, would seem to remove the principal objection to stem cell research. The new technique would be performed on an embryo when it is two days old, after the fertilized egg has divided into eight cells, known as blastomeres.
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Biologists have developed a technique for establishing colonies of human embryonic stem cells without destroying embryos, a method that, if confirmed in other laboratories, would seem to remove the principal objection to stem cell research. The new technique would be performed on an embryo when it is two days old, after the fertilized egg has divided into eight cells, known as blastomeres.
Early embryos can yield stem cells... and survive. Could extraction technique resolve ethical problems?
Source: Nature
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
A single cell can be teased from a human embryo and used to produce stem cells while leaving the embryo intact. The process, published online in Nature this week, could enable stem-cell lines to be generated without the controversial destruction of human embryos — but some ethical objections remain. The discovery shows that stem-cell lines can be grown from less developed embryos — balls of eight to ten cells — and the process could leave them unscarred.
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
A single cell can be teased from a human embryo and used to produce stem cells while leaving the embryo intact. The process, published online in Nature this week, could enable stem-cell lines to be generated without the controversial destruction of human embryos — but some ethical objections remain. The discovery shows that stem-cell lines can be grown from less developed embryos — balls of eight to ten cells — and the process could leave them unscarred.
Bay Area company reports stem-cell advance: NEW METHOD COULD CHANGE POLITICS OF THE RESEARCH
Source: San Jose Mercury News
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology, a biotech company in the field of stem cell research, disclosed a ground-breaking technique for growing human stem cells from a single cell extracted from a human embryo.without destroying the embryo. The procedure, reported August 23 in the journal Nature, may resolve the ethical and legal dilemmas that have severely limited stem-cell research in the United States.
Posted: August 23, 2006
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology, a biotech company in the field of stem cell research, disclosed a ground-breaking technique for growing human stem cells from a single cell extracted from a human embryo.without destroying the embryo. The procedure, reported August 23 in the journal Nature, may resolve the ethical and legal dilemmas that have severely limited stem-cell research in the United States.
First Study To Show How Immune Cells 'Speak' To Each Other In Vivo
Source: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Posted: August 22, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the Board of Governors' Gene Therapeutics Research Institute at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have confirmed the existence of anatomical structures that channel information exchanges between a T cell and its target, an antigen-presenting brain cell, in laboratory rats.
The confirmation of these cellular structures increases the understanding of the immune system and paves the way for further research on the body's immune response system. New knowledge in this area may ultimately improve treatment for immune disorders such as MS, cancer, and AIDS.
Posted: August 22, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the Board of Governors' Gene Therapeutics Research Institute at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have confirmed the existence of anatomical structures that channel information exchanges between a T cell and its target, an antigen-presenting brain cell, in laboratory rats.
The confirmation of these cellular structures increases the understanding of the immune system and paves the way for further research on the body's immune response system. New knowledge in this area may ultimately improve treatment for immune disorders such as MS, cancer, and AIDS.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Using Your Stem Cells To Repair Your Heart
ource: KGO-TV / ABC 7 - San Francisco
Posted: August 22, 2006
Summary:
An experimental heart surgery that uses a patient's own stem cells may provide dramatic relief for people suffering from heart failure. Researchers say it will take at least another two years to see if this experimental heart surgery really works for people with heart failure. If it shows benefits, researchers say they will then seek fast-track approval from the FDA.
Posted: August 22, 2006
Summary:
An experimental heart surgery that uses a patient's own stem cells may provide dramatic relief for people suffering from heart failure. Researchers say it will take at least another two years to see if this experimental heart surgery really works for people with heart failure. If it shows benefits, researchers say they will then seek fast-track approval from the FDA.
Research Summary: Stem Cell Heart Surgery
Source: KGO-TV / ABC 7 - San Francisco
Posted: August 22, 2006
Here is a summary of research and studies using stem cells to repair damaged hearts.
Posted: August 22, 2006
Here is a summary of research and studies using stem cells to repair damaged hearts.
Enlisting the immune system to fix broken spines
Source: New Scientist
Posted: 22 August 2006 13:38 22
Summary:
A vaccination that stimulates immune cell production could be key to enabling people with serious spinal injuries to walk again, researchers say. However, the study has been criticised by some experts in the neurological field who remain sceptical about the findings.
Posted: 22 August 2006 13:38 22
Summary:
A vaccination that stimulates immune cell production could be key to enabling people with serious spinal injuries to walk again, researchers say. However, the study has been criticised by some experts in the neurological field who remain sceptical about the findings.
Researchers move biotechnology closer to replacing electronic pacemakers
Source: University of California, Davis - Health System
Posted: August 22, 2006
Summary:
UC Davis researchers have successfully used a custom designed protein and gene delivery system to restore normal heart rhythms in pigs with electronic pacemakers, reducing their dependence on implanted devices. This work suggests that scientists are one step closer to making bioengineering a reality in treating the more than 2.2 million Americans affected by irregular heartbeats.
Commentary: Hopefully this new treatment will effectively treat irregular heartbeat in a diverse patient population
Posted: August 22, 2006
Summary:
UC Davis researchers have successfully used a custom designed protein and gene delivery system to restore normal heart rhythms in pigs with electronic pacemakers, reducing their dependence on implanted devices. This work suggests that scientists are one step closer to making bioengineering a reality in treating the more than 2.2 million Americans affected by irregular heartbeats.
Commentary: Hopefully this new treatment will effectively treat irregular heartbeat in a diverse patient population
Monday, August 21, 2006
How HIV 'Exhausts' Killer T Cells
Source: Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Posted: August 21, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have discovered how the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) "exhausts" killer T cells that would otherwise attack the virus. The researchers found that HIV can simply “turn off” fully functional T cells by flipping a molecular switch on the cells. In test tube studies, however, the scientists showed that they could reinvigorate the killer T cells by blocking that inhibitory switch.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will be a component of a new treatment for HIV in the future.
Posted: August 21, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have discovered how the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) "exhausts" killer T cells that would otherwise attack the virus. The researchers found that HIV can simply “turn off” fully functional T cells by flipping a molecular switch on the cells. In test tube studies, however, the scientists showed that they could reinvigorate the killer T cells by blocking that inhibitory switch.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will be a component of a new treatment for HIV in the future.
Healthbeat: Doctors test ways to spur knee cartilage to grow
Source: Associated Press
Posted: August 21, 2006
Summary:
Doctors are testing new ways to spur cartilage to regrow in damaged knees, from implanted "cartilage plugs" to injections of bone-marrow stem cells. The need is huge. Knees are the joint most likely to go bad, and the cartilage that cushions them has only a limited natural ability to repair itself. The question is how to unlock that ability and give it a boost.
Commentary: Hopefully this will lead to new treatments for knee injuries.
Posted: August 21, 2006
Summary:
Doctors are testing new ways to spur cartilage to regrow in damaged knees, from implanted "cartilage plugs" to injections of bone-marrow stem cells. The need is huge. Knees are the joint most likely to go bad, and the cartilage that cushions them has only a limited natural ability to repair itself. The question is how to unlock that ability and give it a boost.
Commentary: Hopefully this will lead to new treatments for knee injuries.
Sunday, August 20, 2006
Regenerating worm may give insight into how stem cells work
Source: St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Posted: August 9, 2006
Summary:
A tiny worm that can regrow its body if chopped into little pieces could help explain how human stem cells function and could lead to better ways to manipulate them.
Research has found that a molecule gives the stem cells of the worm, known as a planarian, regenerative power.
A planarian can grow an entire new worm from a tiny piece of any part of its body except for the pharynx (a digestive organ) and the region in front of its light-sensing eye spots.
Scientists have studied planarians for more than a century, but they have had the techniques to investigate the molecular goings-on within the flatworm's cells for less than a decade
Posted: August 9, 2006
Summary:
A tiny worm that can regrow its body if chopped into little pieces could help explain how human stem cells function and could lead to better ways to manipulate them.
Research has found that a molecule gives the stem cells of the worm, known as a planarian, regenerative power.
A planarian can grow an entire new worm from a tiny piece of any part of its body except for the pharynx (a digestive organ) and the region in front of its light-sensing eye spots.
Scientists have studied planarians for more than a century, but they have had the techniques to investigate the molecular goings-on within the flatworm's cells for less than a decade
Stem Cell Research Advances Cancer Knowledge
Source: UCSF Today
Posted: August 14, 2006
Summary:
Cancer researchers are discovering that at least some tumors arise from cancer stem cells that share characteristics with other kinds of stem cells.
Posted: August 14, 2006
Summary:
Cancer researchers are discovering that at least some tumors arise from cancer stem cells that share characteristics with other kinds of stem cells.
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Critical stem cell protein identified
Source: The News-Gazette - Champaign/Urbana, IL
Posted: August 17, 2006
Summary:
University of Illinois researchers have identified a protein molecule that apparently plays an integral role in the process of stem cell self-renewal.
Commentary: Maybe this discovery will provide new insights into cancer treatments and regenerative medicine.
Posted: August 17, 2006
Summary:
University of Illinois researchers have identified a protein molecule that apparently plays an integral role in the process of stem cell self-renewal.
Commentary: Maybe this discovery will provide new insights into cancer treatments and regenerative medicine.
Healing Potential Discovered In Everyday Human Brain Cells
Source: University of Florida via Medical News Today
Posted: August 19, 2006
Summary:
University of Florida researchers have shown ordinary human brain cells may share the prized qualities of self-renewal and adaptability normally associated with stem cells.
Commenntary: Maybe this finding will lead to new treatments for brain injuries, diseases and disorders.
Posted: August 19, 2006
Summary:
University of Florida researchers have shown ordinary human brain cells may share the prized qualities of self-renewal and adaptability normally associated with stem cells.
Commenntary: Maybe this finding will lead to new treatments for brain injuries, diseases and disorders.
Friday, August 18, 2006
Healing Potential Discovered In Everyday Human Brain Cells
Source: University of Florida
Posted: August 18, 2006
Summary:
University of Florida researchers have shown ordinary human brain cells may share the prized qualities of self-renewal and adaptability normally associated with stem cells.
Commenntary: Maybe this finding will lead to new treatments for brain injuries, diseases and disorders.
Posted: August 18, 2006
Summary:
University of Florida researchers have shown ordinary human brain cells may share the prized qualities of self-renewal and adaptability normally associated with stem cells.
Commenntary: Maybe this finding will lead to new treatments for brain injuries, diseases and disorders.
Spinal cord bridge bypasses injury to restore mobility
Source: Case Western Reserve University
Posted: August 17, 2006
Summary:
Cleveland -- The body's spinal cord is like a super highway of nerves. When an injury occurs, the body's policing defenses put up a roadblock in the form of a scar to prevent further injury, but it stops all neural traffic from moving forward. The researchers regenerated the severed nerve fibers, also called axons, around the initial large lesion with a segment of peripheral nerve taken from the leg of the same animal that suffered the spinal injury. Next, they jump started neural traffic by allowing many nerve fibers to exit from the end of the bridge. This was accomplished, for the first time, by using an enzyme that stopped growth inhibitory molecules from forming in the small scar that forms at the exit ramp of the bridge, where it is inserted into the spinal cord on the other side of the lesion. This allowed the growing axons to reconnect with the spinal cord.
Commentary: Maybe this technique will eventually be translated into an effective human spinal cord injury treatment.
Posted: August 17, 2006
Summary:
Cleveland -- The body's spinal cord is like a super highway of nerves. When an injury occurs, the body's policing defenses put up a roadblock in the form of a scar to prevent further injury, but it stops all neural traffic from moving forward. The researchers regenerated the severed nerve fibers, also called axons, around the initial large lesion with a segment of peripheral nerve taken from the leg of the same animal that suffered the spinal injury. Next, they jump started neural traffic by allowing many nerve fibers to exit from the end of the bridge. This was accomplished, for the first time, by using an enzyme that stopped growth inhibitory molecules from forming in the small scar that forms at the exit ramp of the bridge, where it is inserted into the spinal cord on the other side of the lesion. This allowed the growing axons to reconnect with the spinal cord.
Commentary: Maybe this technique will eventually be translated into an effective human spinal cord injury treatment.
Spinal Cord Bridge Bypasses Injury To Restore Mobility
Source: Case Western Reserve University
Posted: August 18, 2006
Summary:
Cleveland -- The body's spinal cord is like a super highway of nerves. When an injury occurs, the body's policing defenses put up a roadblock in the form of a scar to prevent further injury, but it stops all neural traffic from moving forward. The researchers regenerated the severed nerve fibers, also called axons, around the initial large lesion with a segment of peripheral nerve taken from the leg of the same animal that suffered the spinal injury. Next, they jump started neural traffic by allowing many nerve fibers to exit from the end of the bridge. This was accomplished, for the first time, by using an enzyme that stopped growth inhibitory molecules from forming in the small scar that forms at the exit ramp of the bridge, where it is inserted into the spinal cord on the other side of the lesion. This allowed the growing axons to reconnect with the spinal cord.
Posted: August 18, 2006
Summary:
Cleveland -- The body's spinal cord is like a super highway of nerves. When an injury occurs, the body's policing defenses put up a roadblock in the form of a scar to prevent further injury, but it stops all neural traffic from moving forward. The researchers regenerated the severed nerve fibers, also called axons, around the initial large lesion with a segment of peripheral nerve taken from the leg of the same animal that suffered the spinal injury. Next, they jump started neural traffic by allowing many nerve fibers to exit from the end of the bridge. This was accomplished, for the first time, by using an enzyme that stopped growth inhibitory molecules from forming in the small scar that forms at the exit ramp of the bridge, where it is inserted into the spinal cord on the other side of the lesion. This allowed the growing axons to reconnect with the spinal cord.
Study Provides Insight Into How The Brain Loses Plasticity Of Youth
Source: Harvard Medical School
Posted: August 18, 2006
Summary:
A protein once thought to play a role only in the immune system could hold a clue to one of the great puzzles of neuroscience: how do the highly malleable and plastic brains of youth settle down into a relatively stable adult set of neuronal connections? Harvard Medical School researchers report in the August 17 issue of Science Express that adult mice lacking the immune system protein paired-immunoglobulin like receptor-B (PirB) had brains that retained the plasticity of much younger brains, suggesting that PirB inhibits such plasticity.
Commentary: Maybe this study will have implications for both aging research as well as regenerative medicine.
Posted: August 18, 2006
Summary:
A protein once thought to play a role only in the immune system could hold a clue to one of the great puzzles of neuroscience: how do the highly malleable and plastic brains of youth settle down into a relatively stable adult set of neuronal connections? Harvard Medical School researchers report in the August 17 issue of Science Express that adult mice lacking the immune system protein paired-immunoglobulin like receptor-B (PirB) had brains that retained the plasticity of much younger brains, suggesting that PirB inhibits such plasticity.
Commentary: Maybe this study will have implications for both aging research as well as regenerative medicine.
Adult brain cells made to multiply and regenerate
18:08 18 August 2006
NewScientist.com news service
Summary:
New research has found that adult human brain cells can generate new tissue when implanted into in the brains of mice. The findings could pave the way to new therapies for a host of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s. Lab tests demonstrated that the mature brain cells can divide many times in culture and develop into a wide range of specialised cell types.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding can be translated into effective treatments for neurological diseases, disorders and injuries in humans.
NewScientist.com news service
Summary:
New research has found that adult human brain cells can generate new tissue when implanted into in the brains of mice. The findings could pave the way to new therapies for a host of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s. Lab tests demonstrated that the mature brain cells can divide many times in culture and develop into a wide range of specialised cell types.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding can be translated into effective treatments for neurological diseases, disorders and injuries in humans.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Brain cells said to adapt as do stem cells
United Press International
Posted: August 16, 2006
Summary:
University of Florida researchers say ordinary human brain cells may be able to self-renew in adaptability normally associated with stem cells. Scientists at the school's McKnight Brain Institute say they used mature human brain cells taken from epilepsy patients to generate new brain tissue in mice.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will eventually lead to treatments for brain diseases and injuries.
Posted: August 16, 2006
Summary:
University of Florida researchers say ordinary human brain cells may be able to self-renew in adaptability normally associated with stem cells. Scientists at the school's McKnight Brain Institute say they used mature human brain cells taken from epilepsy patients to generate new brain tissue in mice.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will eventually lead to treatments for brain diseases and injuries.
Common brain cells may have stem-cell-like potential
Source: University of Florida
Posted: August 16, 2006
Summary:
University of Florida researchers have shown ordinary human brain cells may share the prized qualities of self-renewal and adaptability normally associated with stem cells.
Commenntary: Maybe this finding will lead to new treatments for brain injuries, diseases and disorders.
Posted: August 16, 2006
Summary:
University of Florida researchers have shown ordinary human brain cells may share the prized qualities of self-renewal and adaptability normally associated with stem cells.
Commenntary: Maybe this finding will lead to new treatments for brain injuries, diseases and disorders.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
How Human Cells Get Their Marching Orders
Source: The New York Times
Posted: August 15, 2006
Summary:
Biologists at Stanford University say they have discovered a coordinate system in human cells that defines their position in the body. This seems to be the first time a cell-based positioning system has been reported for the adult body of any animal, though positioning systems that guide cells in embryogenesis are well known.
The coordinate system, if confirmed, may shed light on processes like wound healing and lend some hope to the prospect of regenerating human tissues from mature cells, as happens in animals like newts and salamanders, rather than from stem cells, the goal of cell therapy.
Commentary: Maybe this will provide researchers with new insights into human regenerative medicine.
Posted: August 15, 2006
Summary:
Biologists at Stanford University say they have discovered a coordinate system in human cells that defines their position in the body. This seems to be the first time a cell-based positioning system has been reported for the adult body of any animal, though positioning systems that guide cells in embryogenesis are well known.
The coordinate system, if confirmed, may shed light on processes like wound healing and lend some hope to the prospect of regenerating human tissues from mature cells, as happens in animals like newts and salamanders, rather than from stem cells, the goal of cell therapy.
Commentary: Maybe this will provide researchers with new insights into human regenerative medicine.
Using Stem Cells to Cure Blindness: Scientists are designing stem-cell-based therapies for degenerative retinal diseases.
Source: Technology Review
Posted: August 15, 2006
Summary:
Scientists are taking the first major step in using stem cells to replace retinal cells lost to degenerative eye diseases such as macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa. According to findings published today, researchers at the University of Washington in Seattle can reliably make retinal cells from embryonic stem cells. The researchers are now implanting the cells into blind animals to see if the cells can restore vision.
Posted: August 15, 2006
Summary:
Scientists are taking the first major step in using stem cells to replace retinal cells lost to degenerative eye diseases such as macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa. According to findings published today, researchers at the University of Washington in Seattle can reliably make retinal cells from embryonic stem cells. The researchers are now implanting the cells into blind animals to see if the cells can restore vision.
Repairing the retina: Stem-cell procedure promising
Source: Seattle Times
Posted: August 15, 2006
Summary:
Procedures using stem cells derived from human embryos could be utilized in a few years to repair disease-damaged retinas, new research by University of Washington scientists indicates. UW scientists reported Monday that they have successfully used the stem cells to treat diseased tissue in mouse retinas, a key portion of the eye.
Commentary: Hopefully these procedures will be safe and effective in treating a diverse population of patients with eye and vision diseases, disorders and conditions.
Posted: August 15, 2006
Summary:
Procedures using stem cells derived from human embryos could be utilized in a few years to repair disease-damaged retinas, new research by University of Washington scientists indicates. UW scientists reported Monday that they have successfully used the stem cells to treat diseased tissue in mouse retinas, a key portion of the eye.
Commentary: Hopefully these procedures will be safe and effective in treating a diverse population of patients with eye and vision diseases, disorders and conditions.
With Few Factors, Adult Cells Take On Character Of Embryonic Stem Cells
Source: Cell Press via Medical News Today
Posted: August 14, 2006
Summary:
With the introduction of just four factors, researchers have successfully induced differentiated cells taken from mouse embryos or adult mice to behave like embryonic stem cells. This new finding could enable pluripotent cells to be obtained directly from the patients' own cells, avoiding the risk of tissue and immune rejection.
Commentary: Maybe this can lead to safe treatment of human diseases while avoiding ethical controversy.
Posted: August 14, 2006
Summary:
With the introduction of just four factors, researchers have successfully induced differentiated cells taken from mouse embryos or adult mice to behave like embryonic stem cells. This new finding could enable pluripotent cells to be obtained directly from the patients' own cells, avoiding the risk of tissue and immune rejection.
Commentary: Maybe this can lead to safe treatment of human diseases while avoiding ethical controversy.
Sunday, August 13, 2006
Life and death in the hippocampus: what young neurons need to survive
Source: Salk Institute for Biological Studies
Posted: August 13, 2006
Summary:
Whether newborn nerve cells in adult brains live or die depends on whether they can muscle their way into networks occupied by mature neurons. Neuroscientists at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies pin-pointed the molecular survival gear required for a young neuron to successfully jump into the fray and hook up with other cells.
Commentary: Hopefully this will accelerate treatments for central nervous systetm disoders using neural stem cells and regenerative medicine.
Posted: August 13, 2006
Summary:
Whether newborn nerve cells in adult brains live or die depends on whether they can muscle their way into networks occupied by mature neurons. Neuroscientists at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies pin-pointed the molecular survival gear required for a young neuron to successfully jump into the fray and hook up with other cells.
Commentary: Hopefully this will accelerate treatments for central nervous systetm disoders using neural stem cells and regenerative medicine.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Kyoto Univ. group makes cell breakthrough
Source: The Yomiuri Shimbun
Posted: August 12, 2006
Summary:
Japanese researchers have succeeded in creating the pluripotent cell out of a mouse skin cell, which resembles an embryonic stem (ES) cell, which they named induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell. The iPS cell has similar characteristics to ES cells, which can grow into tissues and organs.
Commentary: Maybe this discovery will diffuse the ethical controversy over embryonic stem cell research.
Posted: August 12, 2006
Summary:
Japanese researchers have succeeded in creating the pluripotent cell out of a mouse skin cell, which resembles an embryonic stem (ES) cell, which they named induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell. The iPS cell has similar characteristics to ES cells, which can grow into tissues and organs.
Commentary: Maybe this discovery will diffuse the ethical controversy over embryonic stem cell research.
Expression Of "Blimp1" Gene Leads To The Discovery Of Cells Responsible For Skin's Sebaceous Gland
Source: Rockefeller University
Posted: August 12, 2006
Summary:
New research on mice has demonstrated how the cells responsible for oil production develop, and uncovers clues about how stem cells renew and differentiate.
Commentary: Maybe this will give researchers new insights into developing stem cell treatments to replace damaged or diseased organs and tissues.
Posted: August 12, 2006
Summary:
New research on mice has demonstrated how the cells responsible for oil production develop, and uncovers clues about how stem cells renew and differentiate.
Commentary: Maybe this will give researchers new insights into developing stem cell treatments to replace damaged or diseased organs and tissues.
Friday, August 11, 2006
Stem cell breakthrough in Japan
Source: United Press International
Posted: August 12, 2006
Summary:
Japanese researchers have been able to make adult cells act like embryonic stem cells, at least in mice. The researchers believe the technique could end the debate on the destruction of embryos to obtain embryonic stem cells.
Posted: August 12, 2006
Summary:
Japanese researchers have been able to make adult cells act like embryonic stem cells, at least in mice. The researchers believe the technique could end the debate on the destruction of embryos to obtain embryonic stem cells.
With Few Factors, Adult Cells Take On Character Of Embryonic Stem Cells
Source: Cell Press
Posted: August 11, 2006
Summary:
With the introduction of just four factors, researchers have successfully induced differentiated cells taken from mouse embryos or adult mice to behave like embryonic stem cells. This new finding could enable pluripotent cells to be obtained directly from the patients' own cells, avoiding the risk of tissue and immune rejection.
Commentary: Maybe this can lead to safe treatment of human diseases while avoiding ethical controversy
Posted: August 11, 2006
Summary:
With the introduction of just four factors, researchers have successfully induced differentiated cells taken from mouse embryos or adult mice to behave like embryonic stem cells. This new finding could enable pluripotent cells to be obtained directly from the patients' own cells, avoiding the risk of tissue and immune rejection.
Commentary: Maybe this can lead to safe treatment of human diseases while avoiding ethical controversy
Stem cell work could heal ethical rift: Adult mouse cells coaxed to act like embryonic ones
Source: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Posted: August 10, 2006
Summary:
With a little coaxing, Japanese researchers were able to make adult and embryonic mouse cells behave like embryonic stem cells. The resulting cells look and grow like mouse embryonic stem cells, and analyses indicate these induced cells share the same genetic characteristics, as well.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will diffuse the ethical controversry surrounding embryonic stem cell research.
Posted: August 10, 2006
Summary:
With a little coaxing, Japanese researchers were able to make adult and embryonic mouse cells behave like embryonic stem cells. The resulting cells look and grow like mouse embryonic stem cells, and analyses indicate these induced cells share the same genetic characteristics, as well.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will diffuse the ethical controversry surrounding embryonic stem cell research.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
New stem cell study gives hope to AIDS vctims
Source: KING TV - Seattle, Washington
Posted: August 10, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have demonstrated that human embryonic stem cells can be grown into mature disease-fighting T-cells. The study is raising hopes to combat AIDS and other diseases. Researchers at UCLA took primitive, embryonic stem cells and grew them into mature T-cells. Scientists say this may one day help those with compromised immune systems, like AIDS patients, to grow their own T-cells to fight their disease.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding can be translated into effective treatments for immune system diseases.
Posted: August 10, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have demonstrated that human embryonic stem cells can be grown into mature disease-fighting T-cells. The study is raising hopes to combat AIDS and other diseases. Researchers at UCLA took primitive, embryonic stem cells and grew them into mature T-cells. Scientists say this may one day help those with compromised immune systems, like AIDS patients, to grow their own T-cells to fight their disease.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding can be translated into effective treatments for immune system diseases.
Finding Paves Way For Better Treatment Of Autoimmune Disease
Source: Medical College of Georgia
Posted: August 10, 2006
Summary:
A signaling molecule with an affinity for alcohol has yielded a rapid, inexpensive way to make large numbers of immune cells that work like beat cops to keep misguided cells from attacking the body. The ability to easily make large numbers of these cells opens the door to improved treatment and a better understanding of autoimmune diseases such as type1 diabetes and arthritis, Medical College of Georgia researchers say.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases.
Posted: August 10, 2006
Summary:
A signaling molecule with an affinity for alcohol has yielded a rapid, inexpensive way to make large numbers of immune cells that work like beat cops to keep misguided cells from attacking the body. The ability to easily make large numbers of these cells opens the door to improved treatment and a better understanding of autoimmune diseases such as type1 diabetes and arthritis, Medical College of Georgia researchers say.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will lead to new treatments for autoimmune diseases.
Scientists Identify Gene Involved In Stem Cell Self-renewal In Planaria
Source: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Posted: Augutst 10, 2006
Summary:
No matter how you slice it, the freshwater planarian possesses an amazing ability to regenerate lost body parts. Chop one into pieces, and each piece can grow into a complete planarian. The flatworm relies upon a population of stem cells to accomplish this remarkable feat; recent work sheds light on how planarians maintain these stem cells throughout their lives.
Commentary: Maybe this concept can be applied to regenerating limbs, organs and tissues in humans.
Posted: Augutst 10, 2006
Summary:
No matter how you slice it, the freshwater planarian possesses an amazing ability to regenerate lost body parts. Chop one into pieces, and each piece can grow into a complete planarian. The flatworm relies upon a population of stem cells to accomplish this remarkable feat; recent work sheds light on how planarians maintain these stem cells throughout their lives.
Commentary: Maybe this concept can be applied to regenerating limbs, organs and tissues in humans.
With few factors, adult cells take on character of embryonic stem cells
Source: Cell Press
Posted: August 10, 2006
Summary:
With the introduction of just four factors, researchers have successfully induced differentiated cells taken from mouse embryos or adult mice to behave like embryonic stem cells. This new finding could enable pluripotent cells to be obtained directly from the patients' own cells, avoiding the risk of tissue and immune rejection.
Commentary: Maybe this can lead to safe treatment of human diseases while avoiding ethical controversy
Posted: August 10, 2006
Summary:
With the introduction of just four factors, researchers have successfully induced differentiated cells taken from mouse embryos or adult mice to behave like embryonic stem cells. This new finding could enable pluripotent cells to be obtained directly from the patients' own cells, avoiding the risk of tissue and immune rejection.
Commentary: Maybe this can lead to safe treatment of human diseases while avoiding ethical controversy
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Human Embryonic Stem Cells Display A Unique Pattern Of Chemical Modification To DNA
Source: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Posted: August 9, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have found that the DNA of human embryonic stem cells is chemically modified in a characteristic, predictable pattern. This pattern distinguishes human embryonic stem cells from normal adult cells and cell lines, including cancer cells. The study should help researchers understand how epigenetic factors contribute to self-renewal and developmental pluripotence, unique characteristics of human embryonic stem cells that may one day allow them to be used to replace diseased or damaged cells with healthy ones in a process called therapeutic cloning.
Commentary: Maybe this will give researchers new insight into how make stem cells differentiate into specific cell types to treat diseases.
Posted: August 9, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have found that the DNA of human embryonic stem cells is chemically modified in a characteristic, predictable pattern. This pattern distinguishes human embryonic stem cells from normal adult cells and cell lines, including cancer cells. The study should help researchers understand how epigenetic factors contribute to self-renewal and developmental pluripotence, unique characteristics of human embryonic stem cells that may one day allow them to be used to replace diseased or damaged cells with healthy ones in a process called therapeutic cloning.
Commentary: Maybe this will give researchers new insight into how make stem cells differentiate into specific cell types to treat diseases.
MUSC Researchers Test Possibility Of Growing Kidneys For Transplant
Source: Medical University of South Carolina
Posted: August 8, 2006
Summary:
Using principles of “tissue self-assembly” (cells coming together to form actual tissues such as a kidney, heart, lung etc.) and stem cell research, scientists involved withthe Medical University of South Carolina and Clemson University Bioengineered Kidney Project are testing the possibility of creating a new kidney from a patient's cells. The progress that already has been achieved with the project has scientists around the world excited about the potential.
Hopefully this research will lead to safe kidney replacement in patients with kidney diseases.
Posted: August 8, 2006
Summary:
Using principles of “tissue self-assembly” (cells coming together to form actual tissues such as a kidney, heart, lung etc.) and stem cell research, scientists involved withthe Medical University of South Carolina and Clemson University Bioengineered Kidney Project are testing the possibility of creating a new kidney from a patient's cells. The progress that already has been achieved with the project has scientists around the world excited about the potential.
Hopefully this research will lead to safe kidney replacement in patients with kidney diseases.
Monday, August 07, 2006
Flatworm, Heal Thyself: Scientists Identify Gene Involved In Stem Cell Self-renewal In Planaria
Source: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Posted: August 7, 2006
Summary:
No matter how you slice it, the freshwater planarian possesses an amazing ability to regenerate lost body parts. Chop one into pieces, and each piece can grow into a complete planarian. The flatworm relies upon a population of stem cells to accomplish this remarkable feat; recent work sheds light on how planarians maintain these stem cells throughout their lives.
Commentary: Maybe this concept can be applied to regenerating limbs, organs and tissues in humans.
Posted: August 7, 2006
Summary:
No matter how you slice it, the freshwater planarian possesses an amazing ability to regenerate lost body parts. Chop one into pieces, and each piece can grow into a complete planarian. The flatworm relies upon a population of stem cells to accomplish this remarkable feat; recent work sheds light on how planarians maintain these stem cells throughout their lives.
Commentary: Maybe this concept can be applied to regenerating limbs, organs and tissues in humans.
Stem Cells May Be Key To Deafness Cure
Source: CBS News
Posted: August 7, 2006
This CBS News feature examines experiments by Stanford University scientists using stem cells to treat, and possibly cure, deafeness.
Posted: August 7, 2006
This CBS News feature examines experiments by Stanford University scientists using stem cells to treat, and possibly cure, deafeness.
Scientists identify gene involved in stem cell self-renewal in planaria
Source: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Posted: August 7, 2006
Summary:
No matter how you slice it, the freshwater planarian possesses an amazing ability to regenerate lost body parts. Chop one into pieces, and each piece can grow into a complete planarian. The flatworm relies upon a population of stem cells to accomplish this remarkable feat; recent work sheds light on how planarians maintain these stem cells throughout their lives.
Commentary: Maybe this concept can be applied to regenerating limbs, organs and tissues in humans.
Posted: August 7, 2006
Summary:
No matter how you slice it, the freshwater planarian possesses an amazing ability to regenerate lost body parts. Chop one into pieces, and each piece can grow into a complete planarian. The flatworm relies upon a population of stem cells to accomplish this remarkable feat; recent work sheds light on how planarians maintain these stem cells throughout their lives.
Commentary: Maybe this concept can be applied to regenerating limbs, organs and tissues in humans.
Scientists discover stem-cell answer to how worms regenerate
Source: St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Posted: August 7, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered a molecule that gives planarian worm stem cells some of their regenerative power.
Commenntary: Maybe this concept can be translated into effective clinical applications in human regenerative medicine.
Posted: August 7, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered a molecule that gives planarian worm stem cells some of their regenerative power.
Commenntary: Maybe this concept can be translated into effective clinical applications in human regenerative medicine.
Sunday, August 06, 2006
Neural stem cells derived from human embryonic stem cells carry abnormal gene expression
Source: University of California - Los Angeles
Posted: August 6, 2006
Summary:
Neural stem cells grown from one of the federally approved human embryonic stem cell lines proved to be inferior to neural stem cells derived from fetal tissue donated for research, a UCLA study has found.
Researchers from the Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Medicine at UCLA coaxed cells from the federally approved line to differentiate into neural stem cells, a process that might one day be used to grow replacement cells to treat such debilitating diseases as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. However, the neural stem cells expressed a lower level of a metabolic gene called CPT 1A, a condition that causes hypoglycemia in humans.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will enable scientists to use neural cells to treat diseases that are safe and free of harmful side effects.
Posted: August 6, 2006
Summary:
Neural stem cells grown from one of the federally approved human embryonic stem cell lines proved to be inferior to neural stem cells derived from fetal tissue donated for research, a UCLA study has found.
Researchers from the Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Medicine at UCLA coaxed cells from the federally approved line to differentiate into neural stem cells, a process that might one day be used to grow replacement cells to treat such debilitating diseases as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. However, the neural stem cells expressed a lower level of a metabolic gene called CPT 1A, a condition that causes hypoglycemia in humans.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will enable scientists to use neural cells to treat diseases that are safe and free of harmful side effects.
Neural Stem Cells Derived From Human Embryonic Stem Cells Carry Abnormal Gene Expression
Source: University of California - Los Angeles
Posted: August 6, 2006
Summary:
Neural stem cells grown from one of the federally approved human embryonic stem cell lines proved to be inferior to neural stem cells derived from fetal tissue donated for research, a UCLA study has found.
Researchers from the Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Medicine at UCLA coaxed cells from the federally approved line to differentiate into neural stem cells, a process that might one day be used to grow replacement cells to treat such debilitating diseases as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. However, the neural stem cells expressed a lower level of a metabolic gene called CPT 1A, a condition that causes hypoglycemia in humans.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will enable scientists to use neural cells to treat diseases that are safe and free of harmful side effects.
Posted: August 6, 2006
Summary:
Neural stem cells grown from one of the federally approved human embryonic stem cell lines proved to be inferior to neural stem cells derived from fetal tissue donated for research, a UCLA study has found.
Researchers from the Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Medicine at UCLA coaxed cells from the federally approved line to differentiate into neural stem cells, a process that might one day be used to grow replacement cells to treat such debilitating diseases as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. However, the neural stem cells expressed a lower level of a metabolic gene called CPT 1A, a condition that causes hypoglycemia in humans.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will enable scientists to use neural cells to treat diseases that are safe and free of harmful side effects.
Friday, August 04, 2006
New study hopeful on neural stem cells
United Press International
August 4, 2006
Neural stem cells derived from federally approved human embryonic cells are inferior to stem cells derived from donated fetal tissue, a new study found.
August 4, 2006
Neural stem cells derived from federally approved human embryonic cells are inferior to stem cells derived from donated fetal tissue, a new study found.
Stem cell trial proves successful
Source: BBC NEWS
Published: August 4, 2006
Summary:
Patients with complicated bone fractures are being helped to avoid permanent disability in a pioneering trial at a Shropshire hospital.
Under the trial the patient's bone marrow is used to literally reproduce their own bones that help the fracture heal itself.
It involves taking stem cells from the patient's bone marrow, stimulating them in a laboratory, then implanting them back into the patient's leg.
The stem cells help to grow new bone and knit the fracture site together.
Commentary: This experiment hopefully will be successful in treating bone injuries in a diverse patient population.
Published: August 4, 2006
Summary:
Patients with complicated bone fractures are being helped to avoid permanent disability in a pioneering trial at a Shropshire hospital.
Under the trial the patient's bone marrow is used to literally reproduce their own bones that help the fracture heal itself.
It involves taking stem cells from the patient's bone marrow, stimulating them in a laboratory, then implanting them back into the patient's leg.
The stem cells help to grow new bone and knit the fracture site together.
Commentary: This experiment hopefully will be successful in treating bone injuries in a diverse patient population.
Thursday, August 03, 2006
U of MN uses robotic surgery techniques in cardiac cell therapy research
Source:: University of Minnesota via Medical News Today
Posted: 03 Aug 2006 - 6:00am (PDT)
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Minnesota successfully used robotic surgery to deliver a stem cell treatment to damaged heart tissue in pigs.
Using minimally invasive robotic surgery equipment, researchers injected the stem cells into the damaged hearts. The cells were "labeled" with iron particles so that researchers would be able to see if they engrafted in the pig hearts.
The cells were successfully transplanted in six of seven cases. Subsequent MRI studies showed that the cells took hold in the heart and function improved.
Commentary: Hopefully this new method for stem cell transplantation will also be successful in stem cell treatments and lead to improved function in humans.
Posted: 03 Aug 2006 - 6:00am (PDT)
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Minnesota successfully used robotic surgery to deliver a stem cell treatment to damaged heart tissue in pigs.
Using minimally invasive robotic surgery equipment, researchers injected the stem cells into the damaged hearts. The cells were "labeled" with iron particles so that researchers would be able to see if they engrafted in the pig hearts.
The cells were successfully transplanted in six of seven cases. Subsequent MRI studies showed that the cells took hold in the heart and function improved.
Commentary: Hopefully this new method for stem cell transplantation will also be successful in stem cell treatments and lead to improved function in humans.
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Mapping System Tells Skin Cells Whether To Become Scalp, Palm Tissues
Source: Stanford University Medical Center
Posted: August 2, 2006
Summary:
Scientists at the Stanford University School of Medicine have discovered that specialized skin cells use a mapping system similar to a global-posiioning system to identify where they belong in the body and how to act once they arrive. These cellular cornerstones direct embryonic patterning and wound healing by sending vital location cues to their neighbors, and may help in growing tissue for transplant or understanding metastatic cancer.
Commentary: Hopefully this new system of manipulating cells into different cell types will lead to effective cell replacement treatments for diseases, injuries and other medical conditions.
Posted: August 2, 2006
Summary:
Scientists at the Stanford University School of Medicine have discovered that specialized skin cells use a mapping system similar to a global-posiioning system to identify where they belong in the body and how to act once they arrive. These cellular cornerstones direct embryonic patterning and wound healing by sending vital location cues to their neighbors, and may help in growing tissue for transplant or understanding metastatic cancer.
Commentary: Hopefully this new system of manipulating cells into different cell types will lead to effective cell replacement treatments for diseases, injuries and other medical conditions.
Tissue replacement may apply to all body parts
Source:New York Times News Service
Posted: August 1, 2006
This feature examines the possibility of re-growing and regerating all human organs and tissues that become injured or damaged. It profiles Dr. Anothy Atala of Wake Forest University, who engineered the first human bladder in April 2006.
Posted: August 1, 2006
This feature examines the possibility of re-growing and regerating all human organs and tissues that become injured or damaged. It profiles Dr. Anothy Atala of Wake Forest University, who engineered the first human bladder in April 2006.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
RESEARCH ROUND-UP - JULY 2006
Research Round-up is a new feature on Ben's Stem Cell News summarizing developments in stem cell research every month. Here is a summary of significant stem cell research and science news developments that occurred in July 2006:
• July 2 - Researchers at University of Toronto have developed novel technology to extract a large number of human umbilical cord stem cells
• July 3 - UCLA Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles reported they developed T-cells From Human Embryonic Stem Cells
• July 4 - University of Toronto researchers published a study that identifies the method the body employs to repair the heart and provides new therapies to stimulate cardiac regeneration and prevent heart failure in patients who have suffered a heart attack.
• July 4 - Researchers at Toronto General Hospital have revealed the 'SOS' distress signal that mobilizes specific heart repair cells from the bone marrow to the injured heart after a heart attack.
• July 9 - The Journal of Clinical Investigation published a study finding that injecting or mobilizinng bone marrow stem cells into injured heart muscle during or after a heart attack would be able to regenerate heart muscle lost due to injury.
• July 10 - Scientis at the University of New Caslte Upon Tyne demonstrated for the first time that sperm grown from embryonic stem cells can be used to produce offspring.
• July 12 - Researchers at Johns Hopkins and the University of Michigan have developed a treatment that helps spinal cord nerves regrow after injury in rats.
• July 12 - Case Western Reserve University scientists in Cleveland devised a way to make nerve fibers grow a "bridge" across gaps in rats' damaged spinal cords.
• July 17 - Researchers at Johns Hopkins and the University of Michigan announced the development a treatment that helps spinal cord nerves regrow after injury.
• July 17 - Researchers at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute isolated rare cancer stem cells that cause leukemia in a mouse model of the human disease.
• July 20 - A study by UC Irvine researchers found that rats with either mild or severe spinal cord injuries that were transplanted with a treatment derived from human embryonic stem cells suffered no visible injury or ill effects as a result of the treatment itself.
• July 21 - Scientists at Duke University Medical Center demonstrated they can grow human stem cells in the laboratory by blocking an enzyme that naturally triggers stem cells to mature and differentiate into specialized cells, and successfully increased the number of stem cells by 3 to 4 fold.
• July 24 - Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles announced they have transformed adult stem cells taken from human adipose – or fat tissue – into smooth muscle cells
• July 28 - ES Cell International-A Singapore biotech company--announced it has produced and stored six new human embryonic stem cell lines suitable for use in clinical trials
• July 31 - Researchers at the University of Minnesota successfully used robotic surgery to deliver a stem cell treatment to damaged heart tissue in pigs, potentially paving the way for use in stem cell heart treatments in humans
• July 2 - Researchers at University of Toronto have developed novel technology to extract a large number of human umbilical cord stem cells
• July 3 - UCLA Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles reported they developed T-cells From Human Embryonic Stem Cells
• July 4 - University of Toronto researchers published a study that identifies the method the body employs to repair the heart and provides new therapies to stimulate cardiac regeneration and prevent heart failure in patients who have suffered a heart attack.
• July 4 - Researchers at Toronto General Hospital have revealed the 'SOS' distress signal that mobilizes specific heart repair cells from the bone marrow to the injured heart after a heart attack.
• July 9 - The Journal of Clinical Investigation published a study finding that injecting or mobilizinng bone marrow stem cells into injured heart muscle during or after a heart attack would be able to regenerate heart muscle lost due to injury.
• July 10 - Scientis at the University of New Caslte Upon Tyne demonstrated for the first time that sperm grown from embryonic stem cells can be used to produce offspring.
• July 12 - Researchers at Johns Hopkins and the University of Michigan have developed a treatment that helps spinal cord nerves regrow after injury in rats.
• July 12 - Case Western Reserve University scientists in Cleveland devised a way to make nerve fibers grow a "bridge" across gaps in rats' damaged spinal cords.
• July 17 - Researchers at Johns Hopkins and the University of Michigan announced the development a treatment that helps spinal cord nerves regrow after injury.
• July 17 - Researchers at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute isolated rare cancer stem cells that cause leukemia in a mouse model of the human disease.
• July 20 - A study by UC Irvine researchers found that rats with either mild or severe spinal cord injuries that were transplanted with a treatment derived from human embryonic stem cells suffered no visible injury or ill effects as a result of the treatment itself.
• July 21 - Scientists at Duke University Medical Center demonstrated they can grow human stem cells in the laboratory by blocking an enzyme that naturally triggers stem cells to mature and differentiate into specialized cells, and successfully increased the number of stem cells by 3 to 4 fold.
• July 24 - Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles announced they have transformed adult stem cells taken from human adipose – or fat tissue – into smooth muscle cells
• July 28 - ES Cell International-A Singapore biotech company--announced it has produced and stored six new human embryonic stem cell lines suitable for use in clinical trials
• July 31 - Researchers at the University of Minnesota successfully used robotic surgery to deliver a stem cell treatment to damaged heart tissue in pigs, potentially paving the way for use in stem cell heart treatments in humans
Robotic Surgery Techniques Used In Cardiac Cell Therapy Research
Source: University of Minnesota
Posted: July 31, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Minnesota successfully used robotic surgery to deliver a stem cell treatment to damaged heart tissue in pigs.
Using minimally invasive robotic surgery equipment, researchers injected the stem cells into the damaged hearts. The cells were "labeled" with iron particles so that researchers would be able to see if they engrafted in the pig hearts.
The cells were successfully transplanted in six of seven cases. Subsequent MRI studies showed that the cells took hold in the heart and function improved.
Commentary: Hopefully this new method for stem cell transplantation will also be successful in stem cell treatments and lead to improved function in humans.
Posted: July 31, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Minnesota successfully used robotic surgery to deliver a stem cell treatment to damaged heart tissue in pigs.
Using minimally invasive robotic surgery equipment, researchers injected the stem cells into the damaged hearts. The cells were "labeled" with iron particles so that researchers would be able to see if they engrafted in the pig hearts.
The cells were successfully transplanted in six of seven cases. Subsequent MRI studies showed that the cells took hold in the heart and function improved.
Commentary: Hopefully this new method for stem cell transplantation will also be successful in stem cell treatments and lead to improved function in humans.
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