Source: NIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
Date: September 28, 2006
Summary:
The first international, multicenter trial of the Edmonton Protocol--a standardized approach to the transplantation of insulin-producing islets--demonstrates that this may be an appropriate therapy that can dramatically benefit certain patients with severe complications of Type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Commentary: This innovative new approach to treating severe complications of Type 1 diabetes mellitus seems as if it may have a successful long-term outcome for certain patients with the disease. As further trials are conducted, maybe the approach will be successful in an even wider, more diverse patient population.
Friday, September 29, 2006
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Breakthrough Offers New Tool For Studying Degenerative Disease
Source: Oregon State University
Date: September 28, 2006
Summary:
Scientists in the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University have discovered a new technique to let them watch, visualize and precisely measure a key oxidant in animal cells. The oxidant plays a key role in both normal biological processes and -- when it accumulates to excess -- the destruction or death of cells and various disease processes. Researchers believe the findings, published online in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, are an important breakthrough that could dramatically speed research advances on some of the most significant degenerative human diseases, from Lou Gehrig's Disease to heart disease, hypertension, diabetes and aging.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will eventually be translated into an effective therapy to prevent or treat diseases in which cell death occurs, such as Alzheimer's Disease, stroke, and the conditions mentioned above, and result in improved quality of life for patients.
Date: September 28, 2006
Summary:
Scientists in the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University have discovered a new technique to let them watch, visualize and precisely measure a key oxidant in animal cells. The oxidant plays a key role in both normal biological processes and -- when it accumulates to excess -- the destruction or death of cells and various disease processes. Researchers believe the findings, published online in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, are an important breakthrough that could dramatically speed research advances on some of the most significant degenerative human diseases, from Lou Gehrig's Disease to heart disease, hypertension, diabetes and aging.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will eventually be translated into an effective therapy to prevent or treat diseases in which cell death occurs, such as Alzheimer's Disease, stroke, and the conditions mentioned above, and result in improved quality of life for patients.
Clinical trial shows islet transplantation is a promising procedure
Source: NIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
Date: September 27, 2006
Summary:
The first international, multicenter trial of the Edmonton Protocol--a standardized approach to the transplantation of insulin-producing islets--demonstrates that this may be an appropriate therapy that can dramatically benefit certain patients with severe complications of Type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Commentary: This approach to treating severe complications of Type 1 diabetes mellitus seems as if it may have a successful long-term outcome for certain patients with the disease. As further trials are conducted, maybe the approach will be successful in an even wider, more diverse patient population.
Date: September 27, 2006
Summary:
The first international, multicenter trial of the Edmonton Protocol--a standardized approach to the transplantation of insulin-producing islets--demonstrates that this may be an appropriate therapy that can dramatically benefit certain patients with severe complications of Type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Commentary: This approach to treating severe complications of Type 1 diabetes mellitus seems as if it may have a successful long-term outcome for certain patients with the disease. As further trials are conducted, maybe the approach will be successful in an even wider, more diverse patient population.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
To the heart’s rescue
Source: Deccan Herald
Posted: September 26, 2006
Summary:
Researchers reported recently that stem cells harvested from patients’ own bone marrow improved cardiac function in heart attack patients months, years and even decades, after they suffered their attacks. The infusion of stem cells boosted cardiac pumping efficiency by seven percent in three months — a modest gain, but still a significant improvement for a chronic condition. The researchers also found tentative signs that patients can continue to improve with repeated stem-cell treatments. While the researchers are uncertain why the therapy works, the findings are a sign that the long-touted regenerative powers of stem cells may be moving from the laboratory into the realm of viable human therapies. Some researchers cautioned that it was too soon to say that the results could be translated into routine treatment.
Commentary: These results are a sign of progress in the development of effective stem cell treatments for heart attack patients. Hopefully the treatments will be successfully replicated and have successful long-term outcomes in a large and heterogenous patient population.
Posted: September 26, 2006
Summary:
Researchers reported recently that stem cells harvested from patients’ own bone marrow improved cardiac function in heart attack patients months, years and even decades, after they suffered their attacks. The infusion of stem cells boosted cardiac pumping efficiency by seven percent in three months — a modest gain, but still a significant improvement for a chronic condition. The researchers also found tentative signs that patients can continue to improve with repeated stem-cell treatments. While the researchers are uncertain why the therapy works, the findings are a sign that the long-touted regenerative powers of stem cells may be moving from the laboratory into the realm of viable human therapies. Some researchers cautioned that it was too soon to say that the results could be translated into routine treatment.
Commentary: These results are a sign of progress in the development of effective stem cell treatments for heart attack patients. Hopefully the treatments will be successfully replicated and have successful long-term outcomes in a large and heterogenous patient population.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Stem cell trial to combat childhood brain disease
Source: NewScientist.com news service
Posted: September 25, 2006
Summary:
The first clinical safety trial of a purified human fetal stem cell product is about to begin in the US for a rare and fatal childhood brain disease called Batten’s disease – also known as neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL). There is currently no alternative treatment for the disease. The trial could lead to neural stem cell transplants to treat a range of brain and spinal cord disorders.
Commentary: Hopefully this trial will be successful in treating Batten's Diseases and also provide scientists with valuable information and insight into how stem cells could be used to treat other nervous system conditions, diseases and disorders.
Posted: September 25, 2006
Summary:
The first clinical safety trial of a purified human fetal stem cell product is about to begin in the US for a rare and fatal childhood brain disease called Batten’s disease – also known as neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL). There is currently no alternative treatment for the disease. The trial could lead to neural stem cell transplants to treat a range of brain and spinal cord disorders.
Commentary: Hopefully this trial will be successful in treating Batten's Diseases and also provide scientists with valuable information and insight into how stem cells could be used to treat other nervous system conditions, diseases and disorders.
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Targeting stem cells suggests way to cure leukemia, mice study shows
Source: Canadian Press
Posted: September 24, 2006 17:28:34 EDT
Summary:
Scientists are investigating a novel way of treating a deadly form of leukemia: By targeting the stem cells that allow the cancer to return after chemotherapy has resulted in apparent remission. Using an experimental drug, researchers at Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto were able to cure some mice transplanted with the human form of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The discovery offers promise that the drug could have the same effect in humans with the disease.
Commentary: Hopefully further research will enable scientists to eventually translate this advancement into an effective treatment for leukemia and other cancers. It will be important for human patients to be monitored over a long time period and for experiments to be replicated in a large and hetergenous patient population in order for the treatment to be deemed successful.
Posted: September 24, 2006 17:28:34 EDT
Summary:
Scientists are investigating a novel way of treating a deadly form of leukemia: By targeting the stem cells that allow the cancer to return after chemotherapy has resulted in apparent remission. Using an experimental drug, researchers at Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto were able to cure some mice transplanted with the human form of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The discovery offers promise that the drug could have the same effect in humans with the disease.
Commentary: Hopefully further research will enable scientists to eventually translate this advancement into an effective treatment for leukemia and other cancers. It will be important for human patients to be monitored over a long time period and for experiments to be replicated in a large and hetergenous patient population in order for the treatment to be deemed successful.
Scientists turn dead cells into live tissue
Source: Guardian Unlimited - UK
Posted: September 24, 2006
Summary:
British scientists have achieved one of the most controversial breakthroughs ever made in the field of stem cell science by taking cells from dead embryos and turning them into living tissue. Researchers believe the technique could soon be used to create treatments for patients with diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The breakthrough has been hailed by many scientists and ethical experts because it could circumvent opposition to stem cell experiments.
Commentary: This discovery could diffuse the ethical controversy over embryonic stem cell research and accelerate the development of effective treatments for diseases, but might also create new ethical issues.
Posted: September 24, 2006
Summary:
British scientists have achieved one of the most controversial breakthroughs ever made in the field of stem cell science by taking cells from dead embryos and turning them into living tissue. Researchers believe the technique could soon be used to create treatments for patients with diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The breakthrough has been hailed by many scientists and ethical experts because it could circumvent opposition to stem cell experiments.
Commentary: This discovery could diffuse the ethical controversy over embryonic stem cell research and accelerate the development of effective treatments for diseases, but might also create new ethical issues.
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Stem cell clinical trial to treat children. PALO ALTO: Doctors to inject material into the brains of youths with fatal genetic disorder
Source: Contra Costa Times
Posted: September 23, 2006
Summary:
The first clinical trial to transplant stem cells to treat a brain disease is set to get under way this year. The treatment involves injecting fetal brain stem cells into the brains of children with the devastating genetic disorder known as Batten disease, which usually results in death before the age of 12. The stem cells that will be used in the trial are produced by Palo Alto-based StemCells Inc.
Commentary: Hopefully this trial will provide researchers and scientists with new information about and insights into how stem cells might be used to treat neurological diseases, disorders and conditions.
Posted: September 23, 2006
Summary:
The first clinical trial to transplant stem cells to treat a brain disease is set to get under way this year. The treatment involves injecting fetal brain stem cells into the brains of children with the devastating genetic disorder known as Batten disease, which usually results in death before the age of 12. The stem cells that will be used in the trial are produced by Palo Alto-based StemCells Inc.
Commentary: Hopefully this trial will provide researchers and scientists with new information about and insights into how stem cells might be used to treat neurological diseases, disorders and conditions.
Hope for significant new diabetes treatment in Stanford discovery
Source: Stanford University Medical Center
Posted: September 20, 2006
Summary:
Researchers and Stanford University Medical Center have discovered that certain immune-suppressing drugs, such as those taken by patients who have had organ transplants, greatly increase the risk of developing diabetes. These drugs are known to inhibit a protein called calcineurin.
The implications of these findings are many:
Drugs that enhance the activity of calcineurin or NFAT could become a new treatment for type-2, or adult-onset diabetes, in which the beta cells don’t produce enough insulin.
Drugs that inhibit calcineurin or NFAT could treat diseases in which the beta cells produce too much insulin, such as hypoglycemia or some pancreatic tumors.
Treating isolated beta cells with drugs that enhance calcineurin could make those cells divide, producing more cells for transplantation.
Activating calcineurin could help Kim in his efforts to direct embryonic stem cells to become insulin-producing cells.
Commentary: These findings seem as if they could eventually lead to an effective treatment or cure for diabetes.
Posted: September 20, 2006
Summary:
Researchers and Stanford University Medical Center have discovered that certain immune-suppressing drugs, such as those taken by patients who have had organ transplants, greatly increase the risk of developing diabetes. These drugs are known to inhibit a protein called calcineurin.
The implications of these findings are many:
Drugs that enhance the activity of calcineurin or NFAT could become a new treatment for type-2, or adult-onset diabetes, in which the beta cells don’t produce enough insulin.
Drugs that inhibit calcineurin or NFAT could treat diseases in which the beta cells produce too much insulin, such as hypoglycemia or some pancreatic tumors.
Treating isolated beta cells with drugs that enhance calcineurin could make those cells divide, producing more cells for transplantation.
Activating calcineurin could help Kim in his efforts to direct embryonic stem cells to become insulin-producing cells.
Commentary: These findings seem as if they could eventually lead to an effective treatment or cure for diabetes.
Researchers Report Growing Stem Cells From Dead Embryos
Source: Washington Post
Posted: September 23, 2006
Summary:
Researchers report they have cultivated a colony of human embryonic stem cells from an apparently dead embryo, a strategy some have suggested might be less controversial than conventional approaches that require the destruction of living embryos. But other stem cell scientists and ethicists quickly raised a host of reasons that the advance may have little practical impact on the stormy research field. Among them are concerns that cells from dead embryos may be genetically abnormal, and the lack of a definitive test for proving that an embryo has no lingering potential for life.
Commentary: Maybe this will end the ethical debate over embryonic stem cell research, but as the summary states, the true impact of this finding remains to be seen and will likely continue to be fiercely debated.
Posted: September 23, 2006
Summary:
Researchers report they have cultivated a colony of human embryonic stem cells from an apparently dead embryo, a strategy some have suggested might be less controversial than conventional approaches that require the destruction of living embryos. But other stem cell scientists and ethicists quickly raised a host of reasons that the advance may have little practical impact on the stormy research field. Among them are concerns that cells from dead embryos may be genetically abnormal, and the lack of a definitive test for proving that an embryo has no lingering potential for life.
Commentary: Maybe this will end the ethical debate over embryonic stem cell research, but as the summary states, the true impact of this finding remains to be seen and will likely continue to be fiercely debated.
Friday, September 22, 2006
Stem-Cell Trial for Neurodegenerative Pediatric Disease to Get Under Way: The goal is a treatment for Batten disease, a rare and fatal disorder
Source: HealthDay News
Posted: September 22, 2006
Summary:
A phase I trial to test the safety of stem-cell transplants to treat Batten disease, a rare yet fatal inherited neurodegenerative disorder, is about to get started at Oregon Health & Science University's (OHSU) Doernbecher Children's Hospital.
Commentary: Hopefully this trial will provide new insights into using stem cells to treat neurological conditions, diseases and disorders in humans, maybe leading to other human trials using stem cells to treat such conditions.
Posted: September 22, 2006
Summary:
A phase I trial to test the safety of stem-cell transplants to treat Batten disease, a rare yet fatal inherited neurodegenerative disorder, is about to get started at Oregon Health & Science University's (OHSU) Doernbecher Children's Hospital.
Commentary: Hopefully this trial will provide new insights into using stem cells to treat neurological conditions, diseases and disorders in humans, maybe leading to other human trials using stem cells to treat such conditions.
New Stem Cell Approach Reported
Source: Associated Press
Posted: September 22, 2006 12:37 PDT
Summary:
Scientists reported the creation of a stem cell line from a human embryo that had stopped developing naturally, and so was considered dead. Using such embryos might ease ethical concerns about creating such cells, they suggested.
Commentary: Hopefully this will ease ethical concerns surrounding embryonic stem cell research and enable it to proceed rapidly in order to develop effective treatments for diseases, injuries and medical conditions.
Posted: September 22, 2006 12:37 PDT
Summary:
Scientists reported the creation of a stem cell line from a human embryo that had stopped developing naturally, and so was considered dead. Using such embryos might ease ethical concerns about creating such cells, they suggested.
Commentary: Hopefully this will ease ethical concerns surrounding embryonic stem cell research and enable it to proceed rapidly in order to develop effective treatments for diseases, injuries and medical conditions.
Advanced Cell uses stem cells for eyes
Source: Inside Bay Area / Oakland Tribune
Posted: September 22, 2006 03:01:31 AM PDT
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology announced it has used human embryonic stem cells to treat eye disorders in rats. In a new study, the company used the stem cells to generate retinal pigment cells that help promote sight. The study has received praise from two prominent stem cell researchers.
Posted: September 22, 2006 03:01:31 AM PDT
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology announced it has used human embryonic stem cells to treat eye disorders in rats. In a new study, the company used the stem cells to generate retinal pigment cells that help promote sight. The study has received praise from two prominent stem cell researchers.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Stem cell hope for eyes
Source: Newsday
Posted: September 21, 2006, 9:09 PM EDT
Summary:
Rats with a disease comparable to macular degeneration have had their eyesight restored with injections involving human embryonic stem cells, an advance scientists hope will bode well for treating people at risk of the disorder.
Commentary: Hopefully these results can eventually be successfully replicated in human patients with macular degeneration.
Posted: September 21, 2006, 9:09 PM EDT
Summary:
Rats with a disease comparable to macular degeneration have had their eyesight restored with injections involving human embryonic stem cells, an advance scientists hope will bode well for treating people at risk of the disorder.
Commentary: Hopefully these results can eventually be successfully replicated in human patients with macular degeneration.
Analysis: Stem cells prevent vision loss
Source: United Press International
Posted: September 21, 2006
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology, a biotechnology company in the field of stem cell research, announced it has shown human stem cells can prevent blindness in rats. The company believes the stem cell therapy could have applications for macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa and other vision disorders.
Posted: September 21, 2006
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology, a biotechnology company in the field of stem cell research, announced it has shown human stem cells can prevent blindness in rats. The company believes the stem cell therapy could have applications for macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa and other vision disorders.
Dead embryos can be used to make new stem cells
Source: Guardian Unlimited - UK
Posted: September 21, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have created embryonic stem cells using dead embryos--embryos that have stopped dividing. By avoiding the need to deliberately destroy an embryo, the technique could offer a way of producing embryonic stem cell lines that would be ethically acceptable to pro-life groups.
Commentary: Hopefully this new technique will produce successful stem cell treatments for diseases, injuries and medical conditions.
Posted: September 21, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have created embryonic stem cells using dead embryos--embryos that have stopped dividing. By avoiding the need to deliberately destroy an embryo, the technique could offer a way of producing embryonic stem cell lines that would be ethically acceptable to pro-life groups.
Commentary: Hopefully this new technique will produce successful stem cell treatments for diseases, injuries and medical conditions.
Stem Cells Therapy Can Slow Eyesight Loss
Source: Medical News Today
Posted: September 21, 2006 - 11:00am (PDT)
Summary:
Rats with an eye disease similar to human macular degeneration experienced significantly slower vision loss after receiving embryonic stem cell therapy when compared to rats that did not receive the treatment, say scientists from Advanced Cell Technology, a biotechnology company in the field of stem cell research. further studies could lead to an effective treatment for humans, prevening blindness in large and heterogenous patient population.
Posted: September 21, 2006 - 11:00am (PDT)
Summary:
Rats with an eye disease similar to human macular degeneration experienced significantly slower vision loss after receiving embryonic stem cell therapy when compared to rats that did not receive the treatment, say scientists from Advanced Cell Technology, a biotechnology company in the field of stem cell research. further studies could lead to an effective treatment for humans, prevening blindness in large and heterogenous patient population.
Stem Cell Experiments Slow Vision Loss in Rats
Source: Washington Post
Posted: September 21, 2006
Summary:
Researchers report that cells created from human embryonic stem cells slowed vision loss when injected into the eyes of rats with a disease similar to macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in people older than 55. The experiments do not prove that the cells, obtained through the destruction of human embryos, will work in people. But by showing that the cells have the potential to fill in for failing cells in the retina, experts said, the work may help justify trying the technique in humans.
Posted: September 21, 2006
Summary:
Researchers report that cells created from human embryonic stem cells slowed vision loss when injected into the eyes of rats with a disease similar to macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in people older than 55. The experiments do not prove that the cells, obtained through the destruction of human embryos, will work in people. But by showing that the cells have the potential to fill in for failing cells in the retina, experts said, the work may help justify trying the technique in humans.
Stem cells put a stop to macular degeneration
Source: NewScientist.com news service
Posted: 12:00 21 September 2006
Summary:
Researchers believe a leading cause of blindness could one day be treatable using stem cell therapy. Rats with a degenerative eye disease similar to macular degeneration – the most common cause of blindness in the over 60s – had the deterioration of their vision reduced by tissue implants derived from human embryonic stem cells. Researchers used human embryonic stem cells to derive cultures that resembled retinal pigment epithelial cells – the tissue that supports the light receptor cells (known as photoreceptors) in the retina. Without these supportive cells, photoreceptors do not survive. The engineered cells were injected into the retinas of rats with a rodent form of macular degeneration, a condition in which the epithelial layers and the photoreceptors degenerate leading to blindness. The stem cells seemed to boost the thickness of the degraded epithelial layers from one layer to five or six after 100 days.
Commentary: Maybe this new finding will lead to stem cell treatments for macular degeneration and other eye disorders in humans.
Posted: 12:00 21 September 2006
Summary:
Researchers believe a leading cause of blindness could one day be treatable using stem cell therapy. Rats with a degenerative eye disease similar to macular degeneration – the most common cause of blindness in the over 60s – had the deterioration of their vision reduced by tissue implants derived from human embryonic stem cells. Researchers used human embryonic stem cells to derive cultures that resembled retinal pigment epithelial cells – the tissue that supports the light receptor cells (known as photoreceptors) in the retina. Without these supportive cells, photoreceptors do not survive. The engineered cells were injected into the retinas of rats with a rodent form of macular degeneration, a condition in which the epithelial layers and the photoreceptors degenerate leading to blindness. The stem cells seemed to boost the thickness of the degraded epithelial layers from one layer to five or six after 100 days.
Commentary: Maybe this new finding will lead to stem cell treatments for macular degeneration and other eye disorders in humans.
Stem Cell-Derived Treatment Rescues Vision in Rat Model of Degenerative Eye Disease
Source: Business Wire
Posted: September 21, 2006 12:01 am ET
Summary:
Embryonic stem cells can serve as a renewable source of replacement tissue to rescue visual function in rats with degenerative eye disease similar to age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness in humans. Researchers believe it will be possible to treat diseases of human eyes with cells
Commentary: Maybe further research will enable this finding to be translated into effective treatments for macular degeneration and other eye diseases and disorders in humans.
Posted: September 21, 2006 12:01 am ET
Summary:
Embryonic stem cells can serve as a renewable source of replacement tissue to rescue visual function in rats with degenerative eye disease similar to age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness in humans. Researchers believe it will be possible to treat diseases of human eyes with cells
Commentary: Maybe further research will enable this finding to be translated into effective treatments for macular degeneration and other eye diseases and disorders in humans.
Human Stem Cells Are Found to Help Rats’ Vision
Source: The New York Times
Posted: September 21, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have used human embryonic stem cells that had spontaneously converted into the special cells that line the base of the retina to improve vision in rats suffering from a disease similar to age-related macular degeneration.
Posted: September 21, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have used human embryonic stem cells that had spontaneously converted into the special cells that line the base of the retina to improve vision in rats suffering from a disease similar to age-related macular degeneration.
Advanced Cell Technology Slows Rat Eye Disease With Stem Cells
Source: Bloomberg
Posted: September 21, 2006
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology Inc. has used human embryonic stem cells to help develop a technique that might prevent blinding eye diseases, a report says. Researchers reported that transplanted stem cells produced by the company helped prevent damage to the retinas of rats bred to develop degenerative eye disorders. The study was published in the journal Cloning and Stem Cells.
Posted: September 21, 2006
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology Inc. has used human embryonic stem cells to help develop a technique that might prevent blinding eye diseases, a report says. Researchers reported that transplanted stem cells produced by the company helped prevent damage to the retinas of rats bred to develop degenerative eye disorders. The study was published in the journal Cloning and Stem Cells.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Immature cells strengthen damaged heart
Source: Reuters
Posted: September 20, 2006 10:04 PM BST
Summary:
A new study found transplanting immature human bone marrow cells into hearts damaged months or years earlier by a heart attack can help that heart beat more efficiently.
Commentary: Hopefully this new stem cell treatment will be proven effective in preventing heart failure in a large and heterogenous patient population.
Posted: September 20, 2006 10:04 PM BST
Summary:
A new study found transplanting immature human bone marrow cells into hearts damaged months or years earlier by a heart attack can help that heart beat more efficiently.
Commentary: Hopefully this new stem cell treatment will be proven effective in preventing heart failure in a large and heterogenous patient population.
Stem Cell Trials Show Sustained Heart Function Improvement
Source: Mesoblast Limited
Posted: September 20, 2006
Summary:
Australian adult stem cell company Mesoblast Limited announced positive initial results of clinical adult stem cell trials for the treatment of heart disease being conducted in conjunction with its United States-based sister company Angioblast Systems Inc.
Commentary: Maybe the results of this trial will lead to more trials using adult stem cells to treat heart disease, enabling stem cells to eventually become a standard treatment for heart disease.
Posted: September 20, 2006
Summary:
Australian adult stem cell company Mesoblast Limited announced positive initial results of clinical adult stem cell trials for the treatment of heart disease being conducted in conjunction with its United States-based sister company Angioblast Systems Inc.
Commentary: Maybe the results of this trial will lead to more trials using adult stem cells to treat heart disease, enabling stem cells to eventually become a standard treatment for heart disease.
Study reveals white blood cells can hurt and help transplanted kidneys: Findings could extend life of transplanted kidneys, reduce hospital stays
Source: Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions
Posted: September 20, 2006
Summary:
A new study by researchers at the Johns Hop.kins University School of Medicine revealed that T cells can also play a role in reducing cellular damage in injured kidneys. In the study, designed to try to find these cells and learn more about kidney injury, white blood cells were taken from mice that had undergone experimentally created. These cells were injected into mice engineered without a thymus gland, which produces T cells. A comparison group of genetically engineered mice got no injections. After the researchers temporarily stopped blood flow to kidneys in mice in both groups for 30 minutes, they discovered that the kidneys in the injected mice were improved compared to the other group of mice.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will lead to effective stem cell treatments for patients with kidney damage, injury or failure.
Posted: September 20, 2006
Summary:
A new study by researchers at the Johns Hop.kins University School of Medicine revealed that T cells can also play a role in reducing cellular damage in injured kidneys. In the study, designed to try to find these cells and learn more about kidney injury, white blood cells were taken from mice that had undergone experimentally created. These cells were injected into mice engineered without a thymus gland, which produces T cells. A comparison group of genetically engineered mice got no injections. After the researchers temporarily stopped blood flow to kidneys in mice in both groups for 30 minutes, they discovered that the kidneys in the injected mice were improved compared to the other group of mice.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will lead to effective stem cell treatments for patients with kidney damage, injury or failure.
2 Trials Show Stem-Cell Therapy Benefits Heart-Attack Patients But third trial shows no gain at all, researchers report
Source: HealthDay News
Posted: September 20, 2006
Summary:
Two German trials that used injected stem cells derived from bone marrow to strengthen the heart muscle after a heart attack had promising results, while a small Norwegian trial showed no benefit.
Commentary: Maybe this trial will lead to further trials and eventually enable stem cells to become a standard treatment for damaged heart muscle resulting from a heart attack.
Posted: September 20, 2006
Summary:
Two German trials that used injected stem cells derived from bone marrow to strengthen the heart muscle after a heart attack had promising results, while a small Norwegian trial showed no benefit.
Commentary: Maybe this trial will lead to further trials and eventually enable stem cells to become a standard treatment for damaged heart muscle resulting from a heart attack.
Human stem cells help blinded rats
Source: Reuters
Posted: September 20, 2006 06:03 PM ET
Summary:
Researchers at Advanced Cell Technology, a biotechnology company in the field of stem cell research, have found that human embryonic stem cells can partly restore vision in blinded rats, and may offer a source of transplants for people with certain eye disease. The finding, published in the journal Cloning and Stem Cells, might offer a way to use stem cells that now exist in laboratories, the researchers said.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding can eventually be translated into effective treatments for eye diseases in humans.
Posted: September 20, 2006 06:03 PM ET
Summary:
Researchers at Advanced Cell Technology, a biotechnology company in the field of stem cell research, have found that human embryonic stem cells can partly restore vision in blinded rats, and may offer a source of transplants for people with certain eye disease. The finding, published in the journal Cloning and Stem Cells, might offer a way to use stem cells that now exist in laboratories, the researchers said.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding can eventually be translated into effective treatments for eye diseases in humans.
Bone Marrow Cells to Fix Heart Damage? Mixed Results From Human Trials of Bone Marrow Cells in Heart Attack Patients
Source: WebMD Medical News
Date: September 20, 2006
Summary:
Researchers report promising results from clinical trials to test whether injections of bone marrow cells can repair heart attack damage. Three studies show that a mixture of cells obtained from a patient's own bone marrow can offer a benefit to patients -- even if doctors don't yet know how best to use the treatments, in which patients, or at what time. However, researchers caution that, for the new approach to be fully developed, researchers will have to find out exactly which -- if any -- of the bone marrow cells repair the heart.
Commentary: Hopefully these results will be successfully replicated and proven an effective treatment for heart damage.
Date: September 20, 2006
Summary:
Researchers report promising results from clinical trials to test whether injections of bone marrow cells can repair heart attack damage. Three studies show that a mixture of cells obtained from a patient's own bone marrow can offer a benefit to patients -- even if doctors don't yet know how best to use the treatments, in which patients, or at what time. However, researchers caution that, for the new approach to be fully developed, researchers will have to find out exactly which -- if any -- of the bone marrow cells repair the heart.
Commentary: Hopefully these results will be successfully replicated and proven an effective treatment for heart damage.
Human stem cells help blinded rats
Source: Reuters
Posted: September 20, 2006 6:03 PM ET
Summary:
Researchers at Advanced Cell Technology, a biotechnology company in the field of stem cell research, have found that human embryonic stem cells can partly restore vision in blinded rats, and may offer a source of transplants for people with certain eye disease. The finding, published in the journal Cloning and Stem Cells, might offer a way to use stem cells that now exist in laboratories, the researchers said.
Posted: September 20, 2006 6:03 PM ET
Summary:
Researchers at Advanced Cell Technology, a biotechnology company in the field of stem cell research, have found that human embryonic stem cells can partly restore vision in blinded rats, and may offer a source of transplants for people with certain eye disease. The finding, published in the journal Cloning and Stem Cells, might offer a way to use stem cells that now exist in laboratories, the researchers said.
Adult stem cells little or no help to heart repair: Results of studies point to need for embryonic stem cells, scientists say
Source: Associated Press
Posted: September 20, 2006 2:00 p.m. PT
Summary:
Giving heart attack survivors stem cells from their own bone marrow did little to repair their damaged hearts, according to the three best studies to date of this controversial therapy. The modest results suggest more study is needed — and, some scientists say, demonstrate the need to lift political limits on using cells from embryos, which offer more promise for turning into heart-repairing tissue.
Posted: September 20, 2006 2:00 p.m. PT
Summary:
Giving heart attack survivors stem cells from their own bone marrow did little to repair their damaged hearts, according to the three best studies to date of this controversial therapy. The modest results suggest more study is needed — and, some scientists say, demonstrate the need to lift political limits on using cells from embryos, which offer more promise for turning into heart-repairing tissue.
Elasticity Of Tissue Environment Plays Role In Determining Stem Cell Growth
Source: American Chemical Society
Date: September 20, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have shown that the elasticity of a stem cell's environment is a major determinant of what type of tissue the stem cell becomes. They say the study provides new clues on how chemical and mechanical factors interact to influence stem cell growth.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will provide researchers with new insights into how to transform stem cells into specific human cell types.
Date: September 20, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have shown that the elasticity of a stem cell's environment is a major determinant of what type of tissue the stem cell becomes. They say the study provides new clues on how chemical and mechanical factors interact to influence stem cell growth.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will provide researchers with new insights into how to transform stem cells into specific human cell types.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Adult Stem Cells Show Wider Potential Than Previously Thought
Source: American Chemical Society
Date: September 19, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at Northwestern University have found new evidence that adult stem cells derived from the bone marrow that form blood cells, are capable of undergoing more diverse transformations than previously thought and could be transformed into a wide variety of tissue types, not just blood cells.
Commentary: Maybe this discovery will enable to more conditions and diseases to be successfully treated using bone marrow stem cells.
Date: September 19, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at Northwestern University have found new evidence that adult stem cells derived from the bone marrow that form blood cells, are capable of undergoing more diverse transformations than previously thought and could be transformed into a wide variety of tissue types, not just blood cells.
Commentary: Maybe this discovery will enable to more conditions and diseases to be successfully treated using bone marrow stem cells.
MU team reports stem-cell advances: Research could eventually aid in treatments. Discovery is unrelated to focus of current debate in state.
Source: Kansas City Star
Posted: September 19, 2006
Summary:
A University of Missouri-Columbia researcher working with pigs has succeeded for the first time in isolating a rare type of adult stem cell circulating in the blood. The stem cells are capable of growing into the cells that form nerves, blood vessels and other kinds of tissues. While the research is just beginning, it eventually could help in the development of treatments for spinal cord injuries and degenerative brain diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
Commentary: Maybe these new adult stem cells will have successful therapeutic applications for treating human diseases and injuries without the controversy that has surrounded the field of embryonic stem cell research.
Posted: September 19, 2006
Summary:
A University of Missouri-Columbia researcher working with pigs has succeeded for the first time in isolating a rare type of adult stem cell circulating in the blood. The stem cells are capable of growing into the cells that form nerves, blood vessels and other kinds of tissues. While the research is just beginning, it eventually could help in the development of treatments for spinal cord injuries and degenerative brain diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
Commentary: Maybe these new adult stem cells will have successful therapeutic applications for treating human diseases and injuries without the controversy that has surrounded the field of embryonic stem cell research.
MU scientist perfects animal stem cell process: The research highlights an ethical middle ground in the stem cell debate.
Source: Columbia Missourian
Posted: September 19, 2006
Summary:
A researcher at the University of Missouri has turned stem cells harvested from pig blood into bone, blood vessel and neural cells. The research highlights a middle ground in the fierce debate over the ethics of stem cell research.
Commentary: Maybe this study will lead to a compromise in the stem cell research debate and possibly end the controversy that has surrounded this developing field of science and medicine.
Posted: September 19, 2006
Summary:
A researcher at the University of Missouri has turned stem cells harvested from pig blood into bone, blood vessel and neural cells. The research highlights a middle ground in the fierce debate over the ethics of stem cell research.
Commentary: Maybe this study will lead to a compromise in the stem cell research debate and possibly end the controversy that has surrounded this developing field of science and medicine.
Monday, September 18, 2006
Researchers Grow Neural, Blood Vessel Cells from Adult Stem Cells
Source: University of Missouri-Columbia
Posted: September 18, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have predicted that embryonic stem cells might lead to cures for various diseases and conditions such as heart disease, Parkinson's or spinal cord injuries. Now, a University of Missouri-Columbia researcher has isolated adult stem cells from blood that can be directed to turn into five types of cells, including bone, blood vessel and nerve cells. The study is the cover article in the August edition of Stem Cells and Development.
Commentary: Maybe this advancement can be turned into effective treatments for neurological conditions and central nervous system disorders.
Posted: September 18, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have predicted that embryonic stem cells might lead to cures for various diseases and conditions such as heart disease, Parkinson's or spinal cord injuries. Now, a University of Missouri-Columbia researcher has isolated adult stem cells from blood that can be directed to turn into five types of cells, including bone, blood vessel and nerve cells. The study is the cover article in the August edition of Stem Cells and Development.
Commentary: Maybe this advancement can be turned into effective treatments for neurological conditions and central nervous system disorders.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Spleen Cells May Prove Effective Target for Lupus Treatment: Researchers discover the organ is origin of the disease in 'transgenic' mice
Source: HealthDay News
Posted: September 14, 2006
Summary:
Research published in the online edition of the journal Immunity on mice specially bred to develop lupus, an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's tissues and organs, has uncovered an area of the spleen that may give rise to the disease. The area is called the marginal zone of the spleen and it appears that this is where B cells from the immune system go awry and turn into cells that attack the body's own tissues and organs, researchers say.
Commentary: Maybe this study wil provide researchers with new insights into potential treatments for lupus and other autoimmune diseases in humans.
Posted: September 14, 2006
Summary:
Research published in the online edition of the journal Immunity on mice specially bred to develop lupus, an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's tissues and organs, has uncovered an area of the spleen that may give rise to the disease. The area is called the marginal zone of the spleen and it appears that this is where B cells from the immune system go awry and turn into cells that attack the body's own tissues and organs, researchers say.
Commentary: Maybe this study wil provide researchers with new insights into potential treatments for lupus and other autoimmune diseases in humans.
Parkinson's-like Cell Death Blocked By Stopping Inflammatory Factor
Source: UT Southwestern Medical Center
Date: September 14, 2006
Summary:
In a study on rats, researchers discovered that blocking one of the body's natural inflammatory factors provides substantial protection against cell death in the brain associated with Parkinson's disease. By using a drug against an inflammatory molecule called tumor necrosis factor or TNF, the researchers saw a 50 percent drop in dopamine neuron death in the brains of rats injected with compounds that cause Parkinson's-like cell death.
Commentary: Hopefully these drugs will have positive effects in treatiing Parkinson's Diseas in humans.
Date: September 14, 2006
Summary:
In a study on rats, researchers discovered that blocking one of the body's natural inflammatory factors provides substantial protection against cell death in the brain associated with Parkinson's disease. By using a drug against an inflammatory molecule called tumor necrosis factor or TNF, the researchers saw a 50 percent drop in dopamine neuron death in the brains of rats injected with compounds that cause Parkinson's-like cell death.
Commentary: Hopefully these drugs will have positive effects in treatiing Parkinson's Diseas in humans.
BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics Enters Letter of Intent to Begin Preclinical Primate Studies of Stem Cell-Based Therapy for Parkinson's Disease; Testing
Source: Business Wire
Posted: September 12, 206
Summary:
BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics, a leader in Adult Stem Cell Research, announced that it has entered into a Letter Of Intent (LOI) with the Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA) of the University of Navarra to conduct safety trials in primates of the company's Parkinson's disease stem cell therapy. The trials will be conducted in Pamplona, Spain, with the intention to move into human clinical trials as soon as is practically possible.
Commentary: Hopefully trials in primates will be successfully and enable the new stem cell therapy to move quickly into human clinical trials, which will successfully treat Parkinson's Disease in human patients.
Posted: September 12, 206
Summary:
BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics, a leader in Adult Stem Cell Research, announced that it has entered into a Letter Of Intent (LOI) with the Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA) of the University of Navarra to conduct safety trials in primates of the company's Parkinson's disease stem cell therapy. The trials will be conducted in Pamplona, Spain, with the intention to move into human clinical trials as soon as is practically possible.
Commentary: Hopefully trials in primates will be successfully and enable the new stem cell therapy to move quickly into human clinical trials, which will successfully treat Parkinson's Disease in human patients.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Researchers Teach Adult Bone Marrow Stem Cells to Diversify
Source: American Chemical Society via WebMD / Fox News
Posted: September 14, 2006
Summary:
By undergoing various kinds of coaxing, researchers have enabled adult bone marrow cells to replace any cell in the body. The researchers used adult stem cells, avoidinng the ethical controversy associated with the use of embryonic stem cells. They demonstrated that these adult stem cells -- which ordinarily would have become blood cells -- can instead become solid organ cells, or even nerve cells. They then taught these new tricks to the adult cells by changing the physical environment in which they grew.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will help to end the ethical controversy surrounding stem cell research.
Posted: September 14, 2006
Summary:
By undergoing various kinds of coaxing, researchers have enabled adult bone marrow cells to replace any cell in the body. The researchers used adult stem cells, avoidinng the ethical controversy associated with the use of embryonic stem cells. They demonstrated that these adult stem cells -- which ordinarily would have become blood cells -- can instead become solid organ cells, or even nerve cells. They then taught these new tricks to the adult cells by changing the physical environment in which they grew.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will help to end the ethical controversy surrounding stem cell research.
Stretching could be stem cell catalyst
Source: San Francisco Chronicle
Date: September 14, 2006
Summary:
Stem cells drawn from bone marrow might be coaxed into making fresh blood vessels by racking them up inside specialized laboratory dishes and pulling them like taffy, according to new research. Repeatedly stretching and relaxing the stem cells caused them to morph into something resembling smooth-muscle tissue -- the raw material that the body builds into blood vessels. This manipulation of stem cells could be an important step in treating human diseases and injuries.
Commentary: Hopefully this technique will be successfully replicated in human clinical trials to treat diseases and medical conditions.
Date: September 14, 2006
Summary:
Stem cells drawn from bone marrow might be coaxed into making fresh blood vessels by racking them up inside specialized laboratory dishes and pulling them like taffy, according to new research. Repeatedly stretching and relaxing the stem cells caused them to morph into something resembling smooth-muscle tissue -- the raw material that the body builds into blood vessels. This manipulation of stem cells could be an important step in treating human diseases and injuries.
Commentary: Hopefully this technique will be successfully replicated in human clinical trials to treat diseases and medical conditions.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
WiCell offers to supply stem cells under breakthrough process
Source: The Business Journal of Milwaukee
Posted: September 12, 2006 12:47 PM CDT
Summary:
The WiCell Research Institute in Madison is collaborating with the firm that said in August it generated human embryonic stem cells without harming embryos to distribute stem cell lines under the new process, provided the federal government approves.
Commentary: If approved by the federal government, maybe this hew process for generating embryonic stem cells will diffuse the ethical controversy that has surrounded the field of embryonic stem cell research.
Posted: September 12, 2006 12:47 PM CDT
Summary:
The WiCell Research Institute in Madison is collaborating with the firm that said in August it generated human embryonic stem cells without harming embryos to distribute stem cell lines under the new process, provided the federal government approves.
Commentary: If approved by the federal government, maybe this hew process for generating embryonic stem cells will diffuse the ethical controversy that has surrounded the field of embryonic stem cell research.
Firms forge stem cell alliance: State institute will work with California company
Source: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Posted: September 12, 2006
Summary:
WiCell Research Institute and a California company said Tuesday they have a preliminary agreement to jointly distribute a range of new embryonic stem cell lines that may be created without destroying human embryos. The cell lines would be produced using a techniquethat was developed by the company, Advanced Cell Technology of Alameda, Calif. The technique was described in a recent article in the journal Nature. The lines would be distributed provided that the federal government agrees to provide research funding for them.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will give new momentum for efforts to pass federal stem cell funding legislation.
Posted: September 12, 2006
Summary:
WiCell Research Institute and a California company said Tuesday they have a preliminary agreement to jointly distribute a range of new embryonic stem cell lines that may be created without destroying human embryos. The cell lines would be produced using a techniquethat was developed by the company, Advanced Cell Technology of Alameda, Calif. The technique was described in a recent article in the journal Nature. The lines would be distributed provided that the federal government agrees to provide research funding for them.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will give new momentum for efforts to pass federal stem cell funding legislation.
MRI Can Track Survival Of Pancreatic Islets After Transplantation
Source: Massachusetts General Hospital
Date: September 13, 2006
Summary:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with an approved contrast agent may provide a practical way of monitoring the survival of transplanted pancreatic islets. Researchers report successfully tracking over time the fate of islets transplanted into mice using a protocol currently being tested in human patients.
Commentary: Hopefully this new advance will enable safe and effective cell therapy treatments for patients with diabetes.
Date: September 13, 2006
Summary:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with an approved contrast agent may provide a practical way of monitoring the survival of transplanted pancreatic islets. Researchers report successfully tracking over time the fate of islets transplanted into mice using a protocol currently being tested in human patients.
Commentary: Hopefully this new advance will enable safe and effective cell therapy treatments for patients with diabetes.
WiCell may disperse new stem cells
Source: Wisconsin State Journal
Posted: September 12, 2006 - 11:58 PM
Summary:
The WiCell Research Institute in Madison announced it has agreed to distribute stem cells created through a new technique that might spare embryos, if such cells are approved by the federal government.
Posted: September 12, 2006 - 11:58 PM
Summary:
The WiCell Research Institute in Madison announced it has agreed to distribute stem cells created through a new technique that might spare embryos, if such cells are approved by the federal government.
Team Creates Uncanny Cell Replicas for Treatment, Research
Source: Brown University
Date: September 12, 2006
Summary:
A research team at Brown University has made plastic replicas of real cells through a novel two-part molding process. The copies looked so authentic, the researchers couldn’t tell if they were real or rubber at first. The lead researcher in the study said the realistic replicas could be used in laboratories to help scientists understand how Schwann cells, critical support cells which protect peripheral nerves by wrapping around their axons to create insulating myelin sheaths and direct axon growth during cell development and repair sustain and direct nerve growth.
The replicas could also, eventually, be used in hospitals to help doctors regenerate nerves. If a patient’s nerves are severed during an auto accident or other injury, a device coated with the imitation cells – a contraption called a nerve guidance channel – could be implanted into the injured area to help stimulate nerve growth and repair damaged tissue. Tissue engineers around the world are testing nerve guidance channels in animals and, in a few cases, in humans.
Commentary: This research seems promising in its potential to rengenerate nerve cells in humans.
Date: September 12, 2006
Summary:
A research team at Brown University has made plastic replicas of real cells through a novel two-part molding process. The copies looked so authentic, the researchers couldn’t tell if they were real or rubber at first. The lead researcher in the study said the realistic replicas could be used in laboratories to help scientists understand how Schwann cells, critical support cells which protect peripheral nerves by wrapping around their axons to create insulating myelin sheaths and direct axon growth during cell development and repair sustain and direct nerve growth.
The replicas could also, eventually, be used in hospitals to help doctors regenerate nerves. If a patient’s nerves are severed during an auto accident or other injury, a device coated with the imitation cells – a contraption called a nerve guidance channel – could be implanted into the injured area to help stimulate nerve growth and repair damaged tissue. Tissue engineers around the world are testing nerve guidance channels in animals and, in a few cases, in humans.
Commentary: This research seems promising in its potential to rengenerate nerve cells in humans.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Transplant Cures Rats' Type 2 Diabetes Without Need For Immune Suppression Drugs
Source: Washington University School of Medicine
Date: September 12, 2006
Summary:
An approach proven to cure a rat model of type 1 or juvenile-onset diabetes also works in a rat model of type 2 or adult-onset diabetes, according to a new report from researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. The treatment approach transplants precursors of the pancreas from embryonic pigs. In a previous study, the researchers showed that they could transplant the cells in a way that lets them grow into insulin producers without triggering attacks by the rats' immune systems. This cured the rats' diabetes without the risky immune suppression drugs required to prevent rejection in other transplant-based treatments.
Commenary: Hopefully this approach can eventually be translated into an effective treatment of type 2 / adult-onset diabetes in humans.
Date: September 12, 2006
Summary:
An approach proven to cure a rat model of type 1 or juvenile-onset diabetes also works in a rat model of type 2 or adult-onset diabetes, according to a new report from researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. The treatment approach transplants precursors of the pancreas from embryonic pigs. In a previous study, the researchers showed that they could transplant the cells in a way that lets them grow into insulin producers without triggering attacks by the rats' immune systems. This cured the rats' diabetes without the risky immune suppression drugs required to prevent rejection in other transplant-based treatments.
Commenary: Hopefully this approach can eventually be translated into an effective treatment of type 2 / adult-onset diabetes in humans.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Researchers Identify Dart-like Molecule In Age-related Macular Degeneration
Source: Case Western Reserve University
Date: September 11, 2006
Summary:
A dart-like molecule that adheres to proteins in the eye is the key that turns on the uncontrolled growth of blood vessels, according to researchers at Case Western Reserve University and the Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute. Uncontrolled blood vessel growth is a major contributor to the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness among people over 65 in the United States.
Date: September 11, 2006
Summary:
A dart-like molecule that adheres to proteins in the eye is the key that turns on the uncontrolled growth of blood vessels, according to researchers at Case Western Reserve University and the Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute. Uncontrolled blood vessel growth is a major contributor to the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness among people over 65 in the United States.
Drug Can Quickly Mobilize An Army Of Cells To Repair Injury
Source: Washington University School of Medicine
Date: September 11, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis demonstrated that a drug called AMD3100 can mobilize angiogenic cells from bone marrow of human patients in a matter of hours instead of days, as was the case with a related agent called G-CSF. The researchers showed that AMD3100 caused a 10- to 20-fold increase in certain angiogenic cells in the blood within four hours in human subjects, suggesting the drug could be a more effective treatment for heart attack or stroke. The researchers are planning a clinical trial to test G-CSF in patients with peripheral vascular disease to find out if the drug will lead to long-lasting improvement in blood flow, heal ulcers, relieve pain and prevent amputations.
Commentary: Hopefully this new drug will be sucessful in clinical trials and improve the quality of live for patients with cardiac, neurological and circulatory conditions.
Date: September 11, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis demonstrated that a drug called AMD3100 can mobilize angiogenic cells from bone marrow of human patients in a matter of hours instead of days, as was the case with a related agent called G-CSF. The researchers showed that AMD3100 caused a 10- to 20-fold increase in certain angiogenic cells in the blood within four hours in human subjects, suggesting the drug could be a more effective treatment for heart attack or stroke. The researchers are planning a clinical trial to test G-CSF in patients with peripheral vascular disease to find out if the drug will lead to long-lasting improvement in blood flow, heal ulcers, relieve pain and prevent amputations.
Commentary: Hopefully this new drug will be sucessful in clinical trials and improve the quality of live for patients with cardiac, neurological and circulatory conditions.
Stem cells from fat
Source: KCRG / Cedar Rapids TV Co. - Cedar Rapids, IA
Story Created: Sep 8, 2006 at 5:38 PM CST
Story Updated: Sep 11, 2006 at 11:30 AM CST
This feature story examines the use of specific stem cells from fat by Cellular Engineering Technologies. The cells avoid ethical controversy since they are not extracted from embryos. A video accompanies this story.
Story Created: Sep 8, 2006 at 5:38 PM CST
Story Updated: Sep 11, 2006 at 11:30 AM CST
This feature story examines the use of specific stem cells from fat by Cellular Engineering Technologies. The cells avoid ethical controversy since they are not extracted from embryos. A video accompanies this story.
Sunday, September 10, 2006
One Gene Found To Control Two Contradictory Stem Cell Activities
Source: Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research
Posted: September 5, 2006
Summary:
A single gene involved in embryonic development is responsible for two seemingly contradictory activities, according to new research from Switzerland: maintaining stem cells after the embryo has implanted in the mother’s uterus, and later providing cues to direct their differentiation in a coordinated fashion when the time is ripe.
Understanding the choreography involved in this mysterious cellular signaling is crucial to being able to coax stem cells to grow into specific tissues outside the body. It is also important in order to understand and perhaps correct what goes wrong when the chemical signaling system goes awry and stem cells become cancerous. Understanding the activity of this gene in embryonic development may hold the key to finding a way to control its activity in tumor cells.
Commentary: Hopefully this discovery will enable both the transformation of stem cells into specific cell types to treat disease, and also correcting chemical signaling in stem cells that become cancerous in order to treat cancer before it spreads.
Posted: September 5, 2006
Summary:
A single gene involved in embryonic development is responsible for two seemingly contradictory activities, according to new research from Switzerland: maintaining stem cells after the embryo has implanted in the mother’s uterus, and later providing cues to direct their differentiation in a coordinated fashion when the time is ripe.
Understanding the choreography involved in this mysterious cellular signaling is crucial to being able to coax stem cells to grow into specific tissues outside the body. It is also important in order to understand and perhaps correct what goes wrong when the chemical signaling system goes awry and stem cells become cancerous. Understanding the activity of this gene in embryonic development may hold the key to finding a way to control its activity in tumor cells.
Commentary: Hopefully this discovery will enable both the transformation of stem cells into specific cell types to treat disease, and also correcting chemical signaling in stem cells that become cancerous in order to treat cancer before it spreads.
Frog research team makes diabetes leap
Source: The Scotsman
Posted: September 10, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the Institute for Stem Cell Research at Edinburgh University in Scotland have made a breakthrough toward developing stem cell treatments for diabetes after conducting research on an African frog. They found a key protein they believe can be used to encourage embryonic stem cells to develop into the insulin-producing pancreatic cells that malfunction in patients with diabetes.
Commentary: Maybe this discovery can be used to develop new therapies and treatments for patients with diabetes.
Posted: September 10, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the Institute for Stem Cell Research at Edinburgh University in Scotland have made a breakthrough toward developing stem cell treatments for diabetes after conducting research on an African frog. They found a key protein they believe can be used to encourage embryonic stem cells to develop into the insulin-producing pancreatic cells that malfunction in patients with diabetes.
Commentary: Maybe this discovery can be used to develop new therapies and treatments for patients with diabetes.
Friday, September 08, 2006
Lab Links Gene To Aged Skin Problems, Cancer
Source: Oregon Health & Science University
Date: September 8, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have uncovered a pathway through which a gene's over-expression causes skin stem cells to switch from creating hair follicles to creating sebaceous glands. The discovery points to a new pathway that could some day be used as a therapeutic target for not only treating hair loss and oily skin, but prevent and treat cancer. In aged skin, a protein is overproduced, which triggers hair loss and sebaceous gland growth. The study is the first to definitively link the over-expression of the protein and the pathological changes that occur in aged skin.
Commentary: This finding seems as thought it could provide researchers a basis to treat diseases using a combination of gene manipulation and stem cell production.
Date: September 8, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have uncovered a pathway through which a gene's over-expression causes skin stem cells to switch from creating hair follicles to creating sebaceous glands. The discovery points to a new pathway that could some day be used as a therapeutic target for not only treating hair loss and oily skin, but prevent and treat cancer. In aged skin, a protein is overproduced, which triggers hair loss and sebaceous gland growth. The study is the first to definitively link the over-expression of the protein and the pathological changes that occur in aged skin.
Commentary: This finding seems as thought it could provide researchers a basis to treat diseases using a combination of gene manipulation and stem cell production.
Healtheuniverse Announces Fat Based Stem Cell Technology Moving to Clinical Trials Without Utilizing Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Source: Market Wire
Posted: September 8, 2006
Summary:
Healtheuniverse, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: HLUN), a diversified biotechnology development firm specializing in the development and commercialization of patented biopharmaceutical and biomedical products, announced that the Company's fat based stem cell technology is moving to clinical trials without the use of human embryonic stem cells.
Commentary: Hopefully these trials will provide insights into how to use fat based stem cells to treat medical conditions.
Posted: September 8, 2006
Summary:
Healtheuniverse, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: HLUN), a diversified biotechnology development firm specializing in the development and commercialization of patented biopharmaceutical and biomedical products, announced that the Company's fat based stem cell technology is moving to clinical trials without the use of human embryonic stem cells.
Commentary: Hopefully these trials will provide insights into how to use fat based stem cells to treat medical conditions.
Life begins at 100? Experts question age frontiers
Source: Reuters
Posted: Fri September 8, 2006 5:21am ET
Summary:
Medical breakthroughs hold out the prospect of living longer and healthier lives, with current life span norms set to be turned on their head, according to an expert on anti-aging. Stem cells, nanotechnology, genetic engineering and therapeutic cloning are being used in the relatively new field of anti-aging medicine.
Commentary: Maybe these finding will have implications for managing age-related health conditions.
Posted: Fri September 8, 2006 5:21am ET
Summary:
Medical breakthroughs hold out the prospect of living longer and healthier lives, with current life span norms set to be turned on their head, according to an expert on anti-aging. Stem cells, nanotechnology, genetic engineering and therapeutic cloning are being used in the relatively new field of anti-aging medicine.
Commentary: Maybe these finding will have implications for managing age-related health conditions.
Life begins at 100? Age frontiers are changing: Stem cell therapy, other advances could help people live longer and better
Source: Reuters
Posted: September 8, 2006
Summary:
Medical breakthroughs hold out the prospect of living longer and healthier lives, with current life span norms set to be turned on their head, according to an expert on anti-aging. Stem cells, nanotechnology, genetic engineering and therapeutic cloning are being used in the relatively new field of anti-aging medicine.
Commentary: Maybe these finding will have implications for managing age-related health conditions.
Posted: September 8, 2006
Summary:
Medical breakthroughs hold out the prospect of living longer and healthier lives, with current life span norms set to be turned on their head, according to an expert on anti-aging. Stem cells, nanotechnology, genetic engineering and therapeutic cloning are being used in the relatively new field of anti-aging medicine.
Commentary: Maybe these finding will have implications for managing age-related health conditions.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Scientists Crack Genetic Secrets Of Human Egg
Source: Michigan State University
Date: September 6, 2006
Summary:
Scientists at Michigan State University report this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences that they have identified genes unique to the human egg. Combined with technology, the unfertilized egg might be coaxed to produce other specific cells, including stem cells, which can be directed to grow into new tissue. The identification opens the way to understanding these genes' functions, which may lead to solving problems from infertility to degenerative diseases.
Commentary: Hopefully these unfertilized eggs will eventually be made to produce stem cells capable being tailored to treat specific diseases.
Date: September 6, 2006
Summary:
Scientists at Michigan State University report this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences that they have identified genes unique to the human egg. Combined with technology, the unfertilized egg might be coaxed to produce other specific cells, including stem cells, which can be directed to grow into new tissue. The identification opens the way to understanding these genes' functions, which may lead to solving problems from infertility to degenerative diseases.
Commentary: Hopefully these unfertilized eggs will eventually be made to produce stem cells capable being tailored to treat specific diseases.
Stem Cells Improve Child Brain Cancer Outcomes: Researchers call new therapy an advance, but not everyone agrees
Source: HealthDay News
Posted: September 7, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have found that a highly targeted treatment that relies on the patient's own stem cells improves outcomes for children with brain tumors called medulloblastomas. In this new treatment regimen, radiation therapy is tailored to the severity of the disease and is then followed by a shorter course of chemotherapy than used by doctors in the past. The researchers believe the findings could mark a signficant advance in neuro-oncology. However, another expert said even though the findings are comparable to current treatment methods for patients with medulloblastomas, the findings won't change her current practice.
Commentary: Hopefully this new treatment will have positive and successful long-term outcomes for patients with brain tumors and some forms of cancer. However it should be replicated over a diverse patient population and patients should be closely monitored in order to make sure the treatment is truly effective.
Posted: September 7, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have found that a highly targeted treatment that relies on the patient's own stem cells improves outcomes for children with brain tumors called medulloblastomas. In this new treatment regimen, radiation therapy is tailored to the severity of the disease and is then followed by a shorter course of chemotherapy than used by doctors in the past. The researchers believe the findings could mark a signficant advance in neuro-oncology. However, another expert said even though the findings are comparable to current treatment methods for patients with medulloblastomas, the findings won't change her current practice.
Commentary: Hopefully this new treatment will have positive and successful long-term outcomes for patients with brain tumors and some forms of cancer. However it should be replicated over a diverse patient population and patients should be closely monitored in order to make sure the treatment is truly effective.
MSU find could alter debate on stem cells: Process may end destruction of embryos, eggs
Source: Lansing State Journal
Posted: September 7, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at Michigan State University have taken the first steps toward developing a process that could allow scientists to produce embryonic stem cells without using human embryos or even human eggs. A team reported this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences that they have identified the genes that are active only in the human egg. The researchers said Identifying those genes brings them closer to understanding how eggs produce embryonic stem cells and to being able to duplicate that process without eggs or embryos.
Commentary: Maybe this discovery will eventually diffuse the ethical controversy surrounding embryonic stem cell research.
Posted: September 7, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at Michigan State University have taken the first steps toward developing a process that could allow scientists to produce embryonic stem cells without using human embryos or even human eggs. A team reported this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences that they have identified the genes that are active only in the human egg. The researchers said Identifying those genes brings them closer to understanding how eggs produce embryonic stem cells and to being able to duplicate that process without eggs or embryos.
Commentary: Maybe this discovery will eventually diffuse the ethical controversy surrounding embryonic stem cell research.
Tumor-suppressing gene also found to contribute to aging: When body boosts defenses to fight cancer, system stops restoring cells, researchers say
Source: San Francisco Chronicle
Date: September 7, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have uncovered a fundamental new link between stem cells and aging: a genetic system in the body that seems to fight cancer but also regulates the restorative cells that keep aging at bay.
Three research teams, each looking at a different organ system, found evidence that a tumor-suppressing gene called p16 also regulates the powers of stem cells to renew themselves.
But it's a balancing act.
When the body beefs up its cancer-fighting defenses, the researchers found a shift away from the gene's ability to restore cells of the blood, pancreas and brain, and aging results.
Stem cells are best known for their all-important starting role in embryonic development. They also serve throughout life as agents of tissue regeneration -- templates that can be copied into fresh new cells as needed.
That ability of stem cells to proliferate indefinitely also can give rise to cancer.
Commentary: If researchers can figure out how to shut off the part of the p16 gene that inhibits it's ability to restore cells, maybe new treatments can be developed for age-related diseases and health conditions such as cancer and Alzheimer's Disease.
Date: September 7, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have uncovered a fundamental new link between stem cells and aging: a genetic system in the body that seems to fight cancer but also regulates the restorative cells that keep aging at bay.
Three research teams, each looking at a different organ system, found evidence that a tumor-suppressing gene called p16 also regulates the powers of stem cells to renew themselves.
But it's a balancing act.
When the body beefs up its cancer-fighting defenses, the researchers found a shift away from the gene's ability to restore cells of the blood, pancreas and brain, and aging results.
Stem cells are best known for their all-important starting role in embryonic development. They also serve throughout life as agents of tissue regeneration -- templates that can be copied into fresh new cells as needed.
That ability of stem cells to proliferate indefinitely also can give rise to cancer.
Commentary: If researchers can figure out how to shut off the part of the p16 gene that inhibits it's ability to restore cells, maybe new treatments can be developed for age-related diseases and health conditions such as cancer and Alzheimer's Disease.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Switching off Aging in Stem Cells
Source: Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Posted: September 6, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have located a single molecular switch plays a central role in inducing stem cells in the brain, pancreas, and blood to lose function as they age. Mice lacking that switch show considerably reduced aging-related decline in stem cell function and tissue regeneration. While the finding could ultimately lead to drugs to slow or reverse degeneration in the brain and other tissues, the researchers cautioned such treatments would have to be balanced against the chance of increasing cancer risk in patients.
Commentary: Maybe this finding can be translated into effective treatments for age-related diseases and conditions in humans.
Posted: September 6, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have located a single molecular switch plays a central role in inducing stem cells in the brain, pancreas, and blood to lose function as they age. Mice lacking that switch show considerably reduced aging-related decline in stem cell function and tissue regeneration. While the finding could ultimately lead to drugs to slow or reverse degeneration in the brain and other tissues, the researchers cautioned such treatments would have to be balanced against the chance of increasing cancer risk in patients.
Commentary: Maybe this finding can be translated into effective treatments for age-related diseases and conditions in humans.
Older stem cells don’t just wear out, they actively shut themselves down
Source: University of Michigan
Posted: September 6, 2006
Summary:
The natural consequences of growing old include slower wound-healing and a brain that makes fewer new neurons because old tissues have less regenerative capacity. What has not been clear is why. A trio of papers published on-line Sept. 6 in the journal Nature shows that old stem cells don’t simply wear out, they actively shut themselves down, probably as a defense against becoming cancerous from genetic defects that accumulate with age.
Commentary: This discovery might provide scientists with new insights into age-related diseases and conditions and enable them to develop effective treatments.
Posted: September 6, 2006
Summary:
The natural consequences of growing old include slower wound-healing and a brain that makes fewer new neurons because old tissues have less regenerative capacity. What has not been clear is why. A trio of papers published on-line Sept. 6 in the journal Nature shows that old stem cells don’t simply wear out, they actively shut themselves down, probably as a defense against becoming cancerous from genetic defects that accumulate with age.
Commentary: This discovery might provide scientists with new insights into age-related diseases and conditions and enable them to develop effective treatments.
Gene Found to Switch Off Stem Cells During Aging
Source: The New York Times
Posted: September 6, 2006
Summary:
Biologists have found a correlation between lifespan and cancer in the form of a gene that switches off stem cells as a person ages. The critical gene, already well known for its role in suppressing tumors, seems to mediate a profound balance between life and death. The finding indicates that many of the degenerative diseases of aging are caused by an active shutting down of the stem cells that renew the body’s various tissues, and are not just a passive disintegration of tissues under life’s daily wear and tear, as is often assumed.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will provide scientists with new insights and strategies into treatiing age-related diseases and conditions.
Posted: September 6, 2006
Summary:
Biologists have found a correlation between lifespan and cancer in the form of a gene that switches off stem cells as a person ages. The critical gene, already well known for its role in suppressing tumors, seems to mediate a profound balance between life and death. The finding indicates that many of the degenerative diseases of aging are caused by an active shutting down of the stem cells that renew the body’s various tissues, and are not just a passive disintegration of tissues under life’s daily wear and tear, as is often assumed.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will provide scientists with new insights and strategies into treatiing age-related diseases and conditions.
Studies find general mechanism of cellular aging: Suggest tumor suppressor gene is key
Source: University of North Carolina School of Medicine
Posted: September 6, 2006
Summary:
Three separate studies confirm a gene that suppresses tumor cell growth also plays a key role in aging. Researchers found increasing concentration, or expression, of the gene p16INK4a in older cells; these aging cells worked poorly compared to young cells and remembered their “age” even when transferred from old mice to young mice. The cells of mice bred without the gene showed less sluggishness as the animals aged and continued to function in a manner more similar to cells from younger mice. Teams from the medical schools at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, University of Michigan and Harvard University observed similar results in pancreatic islet cells and brain and blood stem cells.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will lead to treatments of age-related diseases in humans that will result improved quality of life.
Posted: September 6, 2006
Summary:
Three separate studies confirm a gene that suppresses tumor cell growth also plays a key role in aging. Researchers found increasing concentration, or expression, of the gene p16INK4a in older cells; these aging cells worked poorly compared to young cells and remembered their “age” even when transferred from old mice to young mice. The cells of mice bred without the gene showed less sluggishness as the animals aged and continued to function in a manner more similar to cells from younger mice. Teams from the medical schools at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, University of Michigan and Harvard University observed similar results in pancreatic islet cells and brain and blood stem cells.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will lead to treatments of age-related diseases in humans that will result improved quality of life.
Italians report stem-cell advances
Source: United Press International
Posted: September 6, 2006
Summary:
FLORENCE, Italy, Sept. 6 (UPI) -- Italian scientists have reportedly made important advances in stem-cell research, specifically for kidney and liver disease. The researchers say the cells appear able to turn into an array of other body cells, the Italian news agency ANSA reported. The scientists said their findings were made in adults, not using embryonic stem cells.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding can be translated into effective treatments for patients with kidney and liver disease.
Posted: September 6, 2006
Summary:
FLORENCE, Italy, Sept. 6 (UPI) -- Italian scientists have reportedly made important advances in stem-cell research, specifically for kidney and liver disease. The researchers say the cells appear able to turn into an array of other body cells, the Italian news agency ANSA reported. The scientists said their findings were made in adults, not using embryonic stem cells.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding can be translated into effective treatments for patients with kidney and liver disease.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Genetic secrets of human egg discovered
Source: United Press International
Posted: September 5, 2006
Summary:
U.S. scientists say they have identified the genes that are unique to the human egg. The researchers say the new identification opens the way to understanding the genes' functions, which may lead to solving problems from infertility to degenerative diseases.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will provide scientists with an understanding of the structure of human diseases and enable them to develop effective treatments for them.
Posted: September 5, 2006
Summary:
U.S. scientists say they have identified the genes that are unique to the human egg. The researchers say the new identification opens the way to understanding the genes' functions, which may lead to solving problems from infertility to degenerative diseases.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will provide scientists with an understanding of the structure of human diseases and enable them to develop effective treatments for them.
Who gives stem cells their marching orders?
Source: Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Posted: September 5, 2006
Summary:
Researchers from the Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC) have shown that a single gene involved in embryonic development is responsible for two seemingly contradictory activities -- maintaining stem cells after the embryo has implanted in the mother’s uterus, and later providing cues to direct their differentiation in a coordinated fashion when the time is ripe.
Posted: September 5, 2006
Summary:
Researchers from the Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC) have shown that a single gene involved in embryonic development is responsible for two seemingly contradictory activities -- maintaining stem cells after the embryo has implanted in the mother’s uterus, and later providing cues to direct their differentiation in a coordinated fashion when the time is ripe.
Lost In The Labyrinth: Decoding The Instructions That Tell Cells How To Become Blood
Source: European Molecular Biology Laboratory
Date: September 5, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have discovered how an intracellular communication pathway contributes to the process of blood cell replacement. Since defects in such pathways and in the development of stem cells frequently lead to leukemia and other diseases, the work should give researchers a new handle on processes within cells that lead to cancer.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will enable scientists to develop new treatments for cancer.
Date: September 5, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have discovered how an intracellular communication pathway contributes to the process of blood cell replacement. Since defects in such pathways and in the development of stem cells frequently lead to leukemia and other diseases, the work should give researchers a new handle on processes within cells that lead to cancer.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will enable scientists to develop new treatments for cancer.
Researchers Map Out Networks That Determine Cell Fate
Source: University of Chicago Medical Center
Date: September 5, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have discovered a two-step process that appears to regulate cell fate decisions for many types of developing cells. Understanding the circuitry that controls these decisions is central to learning how different kinds of stem cells develop. It provides insights into how to transform stem cells into therapeutically useful cells and suggests possible new treatments for leukemias, in which a persistent mixed lineage seems to drive cancerous proliferation.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding can be applied not only to disease treatments by enabling scientists to transform cells to specific cell types to treat disease, but also to prevent healthy cells from becoming disease-carrying cells in order to prevent diseases from forming and spreading.
Date: September 5, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have discovered a two-step process that appears to regulate cell fate decisions for many types of developing cells. Understanding the circuitry that controls these decisions is central to learning how different kinds of stem cells develop. It provides insights into how to transform stem cells into therapeutically useful cells and suggests possible new treatments for leukemias, in which a persistent mixed lineage seems to drive cancerous proliferation.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding can be applied not only to disease treatments by enabling scientists to transform cells to specific cell types to treat disease, but also to prevent healthy cells from becoming disease-carrying cells in order to prevent diseases from forming and spreading.
Monday, September 04, 2006
UF study: Brain cells generate new tissue
Source: Gainesville Sun
Posted: September 4, 2006 6:01 AM ET
Summary:
Scientists from the McKnight Brain Institute at the University of Florida report that adult human brain cells can generate new brain tissue when implanted into the brains of mice, potentially enabling the reversal of aging of the brain. The findings could generate new therapies for a host of neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and stroke. They can also enable these ordinary human cells to produce large amounts of new brain cells in culture, with one cell theoretically able to begin a cycle of cell division that does not stop until the cells number in the millions.
Commentary: Hopefully this research will lead to new treatments for neurological diseases, conditions and injuries.
Posted: September 4, 2006 6:01 AM ET
Summary:
Scientists from the McKnight Brain Institute at the University of Florida report that adult human brain cells can generate new brain tissue when implanted into the brains of mice, potentially enabling the reversal of aging of the brain. The findings could generate new therapies for a host of neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and stroke. They can also enable these ordinary human cells to produce large amounts of new brain cells in culture, with one cell theoretically able to begin a cycle of cell division that does not stop until the cells number in the millions.
Commentary: Hopefully this research will lead to new treatments for neurological diseases, conditions and injuries.
Scientists Identify Compounds That Stimulate Stem Cell Growth In The Brain
Source: Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology
Posted: September 4, 2006
Summary:
Scientists at Harvard University have identified key compounds that stimulate stem cell growth in the brain, which may one day lead to restored function for people affected by Parkinson's disease, strokes, multiple sclerosis, and a wide range of neurological disorders.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will improve the quality of life of patients with neurological disorders.
Posted: September 4, 2006
Summary:
Scientists at Harvard University have identified key compounds that stimulate stem cell growth in the brain, which may one day lead to restored function for people affected by Parkinson's disease, strokes, multiple sclerosis, and a wide range of neurological disorders.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will improve the quality of life of patients with neurological disorders.
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Compounds That Stimulate Stem Cell Growth in The Brain
Source: Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology
Posted: September 1, 2006
Summary:
Scientists at Harvard University have identified key compounds that stimulate stem cell growth in the brain, which may one day lead to restored function for people affected by Parkinson's disease, strokes, multiple sclerosis, and a wide range of neurological disorders.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will improve the quality of life of patients with neurological disorders.
Posted: September 1, 2006
Summary:
Scientists at Harvard University have identified key compounds that stimulate stem cell growth in the brain, which may one day lead to restored function for people affected by Parkinson's disease, strokes, multiple sclerosis, and a wide range of neurological disorders.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will improve the quality of life of patients with neurological disorders.
Tumors Shrunk by Engineered Immune Cells, Scientists Say
Source: National Geographic News
Posted: August 31, 2006
Summary:
Normal immune cells that were genetically altered to recognize and destroy cancer cells have successfully shrunk large tumors, scientists say. Two of 17 people with advanced melanoma—a deadly form of skin cancer—who underwent experimental treatment with the engineered immune cells saw their tumors shrivel.
The therapy has so far been applied only to melanoma patients. But the researchers are optimistic that their treatment can be used for many other types of cancer. The team has already engineered similar immune cells for more common tumors, such as breast, lung, and liver cancers.
The research appears in the September 1 issue of the journal Science.
Posted: August 31, 2006
Summary:
Normal immune cells that were genetically altered to recognize and destroy cancer cells have successfully shrunk large tumors, scientists say. Two of 17 people with advanced melanoma—a deadly form of skin cancer—who underwent experimental treatment with the engineered immune cells saw their tumors shrivel.
The therapy has so far been applied only to melanoma patients. But the researchers are optimistic that their treatment can be used for many other types of cancer. The team has already engineered similar immune cells for more common tumors, such as breast, lung, and liver cancers.
The research appears in the September 1 issue of the journal Science.
Saturday, September 02, 2006
New Growth In Old Eyes
Source: University Of California - Davis
Posted: September 2, 2006
Summary:
Nerve cells in the retinas of elderly mice show an unexpected and purposeful burst of growth late in life, according to researchers at UC Davis. The nerves of the eye are really a part of the brain, the researchers said, so this discovery means that it might be possible to encourage other parts of the aging brain to grow back. The group has preliminary evidence that the same process takes place in the eyes of elderly humans.
Posted: September 2, 2006
Summary:
Nerve cells in the retinas of elderly mice show an unexpected and purposeful burst of growth late in life, according to researchers at UC Davis. The nerves of the eye are really a part of the brain, the researchers said, so this discovery means that it might be possible to encourage other parts of the aging brain to grow back. The group has preliminary evidence that the same process takes place in the eyes of elderly humans.
Friday, September 01, 2006
Scientists identify compounds with potential in neurological disorders
Source: Pharmaceutical Business Review
Posted: September 1, 2006
Summary:
Scientists at Harvard University have identified key compounds that stimulate stem cell growth in the brain which may one day lead to restored function for people affected by Parkinson's disease, strokes, multiple sclerosis, and a wide range of neurological disorders. The findings provide important clues as to which compounds may be responsible for causing key brain cells and neurons to regenerate and ultimately restore brain function.
Commentary: Hopefully these findings will eventually have effective clinical applications in humans with neurological diseases, conditions and brain injuries.
Posted: September 1, 2006
Summary:
Scientists at Harvard University have identified key compounds that stimulate stem cell growth in the brain which may one day lead to restored function for people affected by Parkinson's disease, strokes, multiple sclerosis, and a wide range of neurological disorders. The findings provide important clues as to which compounds may be responsible for causing key brain cells and neurons to regenerate and ultimately restore brain function.
Commentary: Hopefully these findings will eventually have effective clinical applications in humans with neurological diseases, conditions and brain injuries.
Scientists report key brain cell finding
Source: United Press International
Posted: September 1, 2006
Summary:
Harvard University scientists have discovered key compounds that stimulate stem cell growth in the brain. The researchers think this finding could eventually lead to restored function for people afficted by strokes, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease and a wide range of neurological disorders.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will lead to effective treatments for central nervous system disorders.
Posted: September 1, 2006
Summary:
Harvard University scientists have discovered key compounds that stimulate stem cell growth in the brain. The researchers think this finding could eventually lead to restored function for people afficted by strokes, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease and a wide range of neurological disorders.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will lead to effective treatments for central nervous system disorders.
Harvard scientists identify compounds that stimulate stem cell growth in the brain
Source: Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology
Posted: September 1, 2006
Summary:
Scientists at Harvard University have identified key compounds that stimulate stem cell growth in the brain, which may one day lead to restored function for people affected by Parkinson's disease, strokes, multiple sclerosis, and a wide range of neurological disorders.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will improve the quality of life of patients with neurological disorders.
Posted: September 1, 2006
Summary:
Scientists at Harvard University have identified key compounds that stimulate stem cell growth in the brain, which may one day lead to restored function for people affected by Parkinson's disease, strokes, multiple sclerosis, and a wide range of neurological disorders.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will improve the quality of life of patients with neurological disorders.
Scientists alter cells to destroy cancer
Source: Los Angeles Times
Posted: September 1, 2006
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.
Posted: September 1, 2006
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.
Scientists turn immune cells into tumour fighters to treat melanoma
Source: The Canadian Press
Posted: August 31, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have genetically engineered immune cells in the blood, transforming them into tumour fighters that eliminated melanoma in two men with an advanced stage of the often deadly disease. While 15 other patients with melanoma were not helped by the modified T-cell treatment, its success in the two who responded was hailed as a significant step forward in the field of gene therapy for cancer.
Posted: August 31, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have genetically engineered immune cells in the blood, transforming them into tumour fighters that eliminated melanoma in two men with an advanced stage of the often deadly disease. While 15 other patients with melanoma were not helped by the modified T-cell treatment, its success in the two who responded was hailed as a significant step forward in the field of gene therapy for cancer.
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