Source: SUNY Downstate Medical Center
Date: November 30, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at SUNY Downstate Medical Center have developed a substance that inhibits the progress of multiple sclerosis (MS) in an animal model. The agent, a novel calpain inhibitor, can be administered orally. In a paper published in the Journal of Neuroimmunology,researchers described the use of the calpain inhibitor for the treatment of a mouse model of MS. Whether administered by injection or by mouth, the inhibitor produced an almost complete cessation of the disease's progress.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
"Cancer prognosis gene" found to control the fate of breast cells
Source: University of California - San Francisco
Date: November 30, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have discovered an unsuspected role for a gene known to be one of the best predictors of human breast cancer outcome. The scientists hope that further investigation of the precise role of the gene in breast cancer can identify new ways of understanding, diagnosing and treating the disease.
Date: November 30, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have discovered an unsuspected role for a gene known to be one of the best predictors of human breast cancer outcome. The scientists hope that further investigation of the precise role of the gene in breast cancer can identify new ways of understanding, diagnosing and treating the disease.
Stem cell trial may bring end of back pain for millions
Source: Evening Standard
Date: 30 November 2006
Summary:
Scientists at the University of Manchester, UK, reported the development of a radical new stem cell treatment that could totally regenerate damaged tissues and bring relief to millions of back pain sufferers.
Date: 30 November 2006
Summary:
Scientists at the University of Manchester, UK, reported the development of a radical new stem cell treatment that could totally regenerate damaged tissues and bring relief to millions of back pain sufferers.
Adult Stem Cells Proving Worth In Spinal Healing
Source: The Louisville Channel
POSTED: 3:10 pm EST November 30, 2006
UPDATED: 3:27 pm EST November 30, 2006
Summary:
A new groundbreaking study using stem cells from nasal passages to help rebuild damaged spinal cord tissue conducted at the University of Louisville’s School of Medicine may lead to a new therapy to reverse the disabling effects of spinal cord injuries.
POSTED: 3:10 pm EST November 30, 2006
UPDATED: 3:27 pm EST November 30, 2006
Summary:
A new groundbreaking study using stem cells from nasal passages to help rebuild damaged spinal cord tissue conducted at the University of Louisville’s School of Medicine may lead to a new therapy to reverse the disabling effects of spinal cord injuries.
Finding Offers New Path For Treatment Of Diabetes
Source: New York University
Date: November 30, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at New York University and the Scripps Research Institute have discovered a new enzyme, GAPDH, which regulates insulin pathways--a finding that offers a new direction for the treatment of diabetes. The research is reported in the most recent issue of the journal Nature Chemical Biology. The new-found enzyme provides another strategy to treat the disease.
Date: November 30, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at New York University and the Scripps Research Institute have discovered a new enzyme, GAPDH, which regulates insulin pathways--a finding that offers a new direction for the treatment of diabetes. The research is reported in the most recent issue of the journal Nature Chemical Biology. The new-found enzyme provides another strategy to treat the disease.
One-off treatment to stop back pain -- Using patients' own stem cells
Source: University of Manchester
Date: November 30, 2006
Summary:
A University of Manchester researcher has developed a treatment for lower back pain using the patient’s own stem cells, which could replace the use of strong painkillers or surgery that can cause debilitation, neither of which addresses the underlying cause.
Date: November 30, 2006
Summary:
A University of Manchester researcher has developed a treatment for lower back pain using the patient’s own stem cells, which could replace the use of strong painkillers or surgery that can cause debilitation, neither of which addresses the underlying cause.
Stem cell cure hope for back pain
Source: BBC NEWS
Posted: 30 November 2006, 18:04:20 GMT
Summary:
Researchers from the University of Manchester are working to develop a new treatment for chronic back pain that uses a patient's own stem cells to rebuild the soft shock-absorbing discs which separate the vertebrae in the spine. The group hopes their treatment will be available within three years.
Posted: 30 November 2006, 18:04:20 GMT
Summary:
Researchers from the University of Manchester are working to develop a new treatment for chronic back pain that uses a patient's own stem cells to rebuild the soft shock-absorbing discs which separate the vertebrae in the spine. The group hopes their treatment will be available within three years.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
RejuvaCell's Breakthrough Stem Cell Therapy Demonstrates Potential to Revolutionize Treatment for Type-2 Diabetes
Source: RejuvaCell Inc.
Posted: November 29, 2006
Summary:
RejuvaCell Inc., a global leader in adult stem cell therapy for intractable Heart and Vascular diseases, achieves extraordinary advances in the treatment of type-2 diabetes. Over 200 patients treated to date, with 85% of 100 Patients at one year on, maintain significant improvement.
Posted: November 29, 2006
Summary:
RejuvaCell Inc., a global leader in adult stem cell therapy for intractable Heart and Vascular diseases, achieves extraordinary advances in the treatment of type-2 diabetes. Over 200 patients treated to date, with 85% of 100 Patients at one year on, maintain significant improvement.
Stem Cell Therapy International Reports the Successful Treatment of a Stroke Patient With Their Proprietary Stem Cell Transplantation Therapy
Source: Stem Cell Therapy International, Inc.
Posted: November 29, 2006 9:15 am ET
Summary:
TAMPA, FL -- Stem Cell Therapy International, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: SCII), a company in the field of research and development of stem cell transplantation therapy and regenerative medicine, announced the successful treatment of a stroke patient from the United States with its stem cell transplantation therapy protocol conducted at one of their affiliate clinics in Kiev, Ukraine.
Posted: November 29, 2006 9:15 am ET
Summary:
TAMPA, FL -- Stem Cell Therapy International, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: SCII), a company in the field of research and development of stem cell transplantation therapy and regenerative medicine, announced the successful treatment of a stroke patient from the United States with its stem cell transplantation therapy protocol conducted at one of their affiliate clinics in Kiev, Ukraine.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Master Gene Makes Skeletal Progenitor Cells Differentiate Into Cartilage Cells
Source: Baylor College of Medicine
Date: November 28, 2006
Summary:
Skeletal progenitor cells differentiate into cartilage cells when one master gene actually suppresses the action of another, said Baylor College of Medicine researchers in a report that appears online in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Date: November 28, 2006
Summary:
Skeletal progenitor cells differentiate into cartilage cells when one master gene actually suppresses the action of another, said Baylor College of Medicine researchers in a report that appears online in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Oncologists study colon cancer stem cells
Source: United Press International
Date: November 28, 2006
Summary:
Canadian and Italian scientists have identified and characterized a type of colon cancer cell capable of causing tumors in mice.
Date: November 28, 2006
Summary:
Canadian and Italian scientists have identified and characterized a type of colon cancer cell capable of causing tumors in mice.
Journal: Stem cell safeguards needed
Source: Associated Press
Posted: November 28, 2006, 11:14 a.m. PT
Summary:
The journal Science plans to adopt some stricter safeguards against fraud, in wake of a headline-grabbing South Korean cloning sham exposed a year ago.
Posted: November 28, 2006, 11:14 a.m. PT
Summary:
The journal Science plans to adopt some stricter safeguards against fraud, in wake of a headline-grabbing South Korean cloning sham exposed a year ago.
Revealed: how to fix a broken heart
Source: Daily Telegraph
Posted: November 28, 2006
Summary:
British scientists discovered that a specific protein is required for blood vessel and heart tissue development. By fully reactiviating this protein to guide progenitor cells from the rind of the heart to form new blood vessels within, it could be possible to restore blood flow to muscle that has been starved of oxygen. The protein could also help to solve a mystery about how experimental stem cell treatments work. Animal tests show that stem cells – bone marrow cells with the potential to turn into many types – can be infused into a heart after an attack and repair and regenerate damaged heart muscle, improving heart function and circulation.
Posted: November 28, 2006
Summary:
British scientists discovered that a specific protein is required for blood vessel and heart tissue development. By fully reactiviating this protein to guide progenitor cells from the rind of the heart to form new blood vessels within, it could be possible to restore blood flow to muscle that has been starved of oxygen. The protein could also help to solve a mystery about how experimental stem cell treatments work. Animal tests show that stem cells – bone marrow cells with the potential to turn into many types – can be infused into a heart after an attack and repair and regenerate damaged heart muscle, improving heart function and circulation.
Monday, November 27, 2006
New data from NIH lab confirms protocol to reverse type 1 diabetes in mice
Source: Massachusetts General Hospital
Date: November 27, 2006
Summary:
New data published in the Nov. 24 issue of Science provide further support for a protocol to reverse type 1 diabetes in mice and new evidence that adult precursor cells from the spleen can contribute to the regeneration of beta cells. In 2001 and 2003, researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) demonstrated the efficacy of a protocol to reverse of type 1 diabetes in diabetic mice. Three studies from other institutions published in the March 24, 2006 issue of Science confirmed that the MGH-developed protocol can reverse the underlying disease but were inconclusive on the role of spleen cells in the recovery of insulin-producing pancreatic islets. The new data from a study performed at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), published as a technical comment, provides additional confirmation of the ability to reverse type 1 diabetes and on the role of the spleen cells in islet regeneration.
Date: November 27, 2006
Summary:
New data published in the Nov. 24 issue of Science provide further support for a protocol to reverse type 1 diabetes in mice and new evidence that adult precursor cells from the spleen can contribute to the regeneration of beta cells. In 2001 and 2003, researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) demonstrated the efficacy of a protocol to reverse of type 1 diabetes in diabetic mice. Three studies from other institutions published in the March 24, 2006 issue of Science confirmed that the MGH-developed protocol can reverse the underlying disease but were inconclusive on the role of spleen cells in the recovery of insulin-producing pancreatic islets. The new data from a study performed at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), published as a technical comment, provides additional confirmation of the ability to reverse type 1 diabetes and on the role of the spleen cells in islet regeneration.
Parkinson's Mutation Stunts Neurons
Source: Cell Press
Date: November 27, 2006
Summary:
Mutations in a key brain protein known to underlie a form of Parkinson's disease (PD) wreaks its damage by stunting the normal growth and branching of neurons, researchers have found. They have pinpointed the malfunction of the protein made by mutant forms of the gene called LRRK2 and how it affects neurons, ultimately leading to their death. The loss of dopamine-producing neurons is central to the pathology of PD, and loss of connections among such neurons is an early feature of the PD disease process.
Date: November 27, 2006
Summary:
Mutations in a key brain protein known to underlie a form of Parkinson's disease (PD) wreaks its damage by stunting the normal growth and branching of neurons, researchers have found. They have pinpointed the malfunction of the protein made by mutant forms of the gene called LRRK2 and how it affects neurons, ultimately leading to their death. The loss of dopamine-producing neurons is central to the pathology of PD, and loss of connections among such neurons is an early feature of the PD disease process.
New Data Confirms Protocol To Reverse Type 1 Diabetes In Mice
Source: Massachusetts General Hospital
Date: November 27, 2006
Summary:
New data published in the Nov. 24 issue of Science provide further support for a protocol to reverse type 1 diabetes in mice and new evidence that adult precursor cells from the spleen can contribute to the regeneration of beta cells. In 2001 and 2003, researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) demonstrated the efficacy of a protocol to reverse of type 1 diabetes in diabetic mice. Three studies from other institutions published in the March 24, 2006 issue of Science confirmed that the MGH-developed protocol can reverse the underlying disease but were inconclusive on the role of spleen cells in the recovery of insulin-producing pancreatic islets. The new data from a study performed at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), published as a technical comment, provides additional confirmation of the ability to reverse type 1 diabetes and on the role of the spleen cells in islet regeneration.
Date: November 27, 2006
Summary:
New data published in the Nov. 24 issue of Science provide further support for a protocol to reverse type 1 diabetes in mice and new evidence that adult precursor cells from the spleen can contribute to the regeneration of beta cells. In 2001 and 2003, researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) demonstrated the efficacy of a protocol to reverse of type 1 diabetes in diabetic mice. Three studies from other institutions published in the March 24, 2006 issue of Science confirmed that the MGH-developed protocol can reverse the underlying disease but were inconclusive on the role of spleen cells in the recovery of insulin-producing pancreatic islets. The new data from a study performed at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), published as a technical comment, provides additional confirmation of the ability to reverse type 1 diabetes and on the role of the spleen cells in islet regeneration.
Some Stem Cell Transplant Recipients Face Long-Term Risk: Leukemia patients almost twice as likely to develop a solid cancer within 10 years
Source: HealthDay News
Date: November 27, 2006
Summary:
A new study by researchers from the University of British Columbia and the BC Cancer Agency. has found that Patients with diseases such as leukemia or myelodysplastic syndrome who receive a hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) have an increased long-term risk of developing a cancer.
Date: November 27, 2006
Summary:
A new study by researchers from the University of British Columbia and the BC Cancer Agency. has found that Patients with diseases such as leukemia or myelodysplastic syndrome who receive a hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) have an increased long-term risk of developing a cancer.
Stem cell transplant cancer risks studied
Source: United Press International
Date: November 27, 2006
Summary:
Canadian scientists report hematopoietic, or bone marrow, stem cell transplant recipients face a significant long-term risk of developing a second cancer.
Date: November 27, 2006
Summary:
Canadian scientists report hematopoietic, or bone marrow, stem cell transplant recipients face a significant long-term risk of developing a second cancer.
Stem cell transplants from women raise cancer risk
Source: NewScientist.com news service
Posted: 05:00 27 November 2006
Summary:
People who receive stem cell transplants for diseases such as leukaemia appear to face a higher risk of developing secondary cancers, especially if the cells come from a female donor, according to a preliminary study. The scientists behind the new report caution that future stem cell treatments for ailments such as spinal cord injury and heart failure might also carry a cancer risk. However, experts point out that the study is far from conclusive and more work needs to be done to confirm a link between stem cell transplants and tumours.
Posted: 05:00 27 November 2006
Summary:
People who receive stem cell transplants for diseases such as leukaemia appear to face a higher risk of developing secondary cancers, especially if the cells come from a female donor, according to a preliminary study. The scientists behind the new report caution that future stem cell treatments for ailments such as spinal cord injury and heart failure might also carry a cancer risk. However, experts point out that the study is far from conclusive and more work needs to be done to confirm a link between stem cell transplants and tumours.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Long-term cancer risk follows stem cell transplant recipients
Source: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Date: November 27, 2006
Summary:
Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients face a significant long-term risk for developing a second cancer, particularly if they were older at the time of transplant or received stem cells from a female donor, according to a new study. Published in the January 1, 2007 issue of CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society, the study reveals that within 10 years of an allogeneic HSCT, the relative risk of a second, solid cancer is almost twice that of the general population.
Date: November 27, 2006
Summary:
Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients face a significant long-term risk for developing a second cancer, particularly if they were older at the time of transplant or received stem cells from a female donor, according to a new study. Published in the January 1, 2007 issue of CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society, the study reveals that within 10 years of an allogeneic HSCT, the relative risk of a second, solid cancer is almost twice that of the general population.
Heart attack hope after scientists discover 'master' stem cell
Source: Evening Standard
Date: 26 November 2006
Summary:
Scientists discovered a "master" cell in mouse embryos that appears to form all the major parts of the heart. Tests showed they were capable of differentiating into the three types of heart cells: contracting cardiac cells, smooth muscle, and the endothelial cells that line the walls of blood vessel. The scientists believe the cells could eventually be used to regenerate ailing hearts, as well as aid drug discovery and provide new models of human disease.
Date: 26 November 2006
Summary:
Scientists discovered a "master" cell in mouse embryos that appears to form all the major parts of the heart. Tests showed they were capable of differentiating into the three types of heart cells: contracting cardiac cells, smooth muscle, and the endothelial cells that line the walls of blood vessel. The scientists believe the cells could eventually be used to regenerate ailing hearts, as well as aid drug discovery and provide new models of human disease.
Friday, November 24, 2006
Tumor Starters: Stem Cells Eyed as Anti-Cancer Target
Source: ABC News
Posted: November 24, 2006
Summary:
Current cancer therapies attack tumors as if every cell in that tumor were the same. But now, scientific evidence suggests that only a small percentage of those tumor cells are responsible for the tumor's growth. Treatments that attack the whole tumor may be off target because they aren't designed to kill the cells at fault — stem cells. Called the cancer stem-cell hypothesis, it could revolutionize the way some cancers are treated, experts said.
Posted: November 24, 2006
Summary:
Current cancer therapies attack tumors as if every cell in that tumor were the same. But now, scientific evidence suggests that only a small percentage of those tumor cells are responsible for the tumor's growth. Treatments that attack the whole tumor may be off target because they aren't designed to kill the cells at fault — stem cells. Called the cancer stem-cell hypothesis, it could revolutionize the way some cancers are treated, experts said.
A stem cell first at OHSU: Hospital conducts experimental transplant on child with fatal disease
Source: Portland Tribune
Date: November 22, 2006
Summary:
Surgeons at Doernbecher Children’s Hospital at Oregon Health & Science University performed what is believed to be the first-ever transplant of fetal stem cells into a human brain. The cells, called purified neural stem cells, were injected directly into the brain of a child suffering from a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disorder called Batten disease.
Date: November 22, 2006
Summary:
Surgeons at Doernbecher Children’s Hospital at Oregon Health & Science University performed what is believed to be the first-ever transplant of fetal stem cells into a human brain. The cells, called purified neural stem cells, were injected directly into the brain of a child suffering from a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disorder called Batten disease.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
TB4 Is Essential For Blood Vessel Regeneration In Adult Hearts
Source: RegeneRx Biopharmaceuticals, Inc.
Posted: 23 Nov 2006 - 12:00pm (PST)
Summary:
REGENERX BIOPHARMACEUTICALS, INC. (AMEX: RGN) (http://www.regenerx.com/) report that a study published in the advanced online edition of the journal Nature supported and elaborated TB4's significant effects in the damaged hearts of mice and highlighted its therapeutic potential for the treatment of heart attacks and heart failure in humans.
Commentary: Maybe these results will lead to human clinical trials of TB4 for heart attacks and heart failure patients.
Posted: 23 Nov 2006 - 12:00pm (PST)
Summary:
REGENERX BIOPHARMACEUTICALS, INC. (AMEX: RGN) (http://www.regenerx.com/) report that a study published in the advanced online edition of the journal Nature supported and elaborated TB4's significant effects in the damaged hearts of mice and highlighted its therapeutic potential for the treatment of heart attacks and heart failure in humans.
Commentary: Maybe these results will lead to human clinical trials of TB4 for heart attacks and heart failure patients.
Study identifies possible master heart stem cell
Source: Reuters
Posted: November 23, 2006 9:56am ET
Summary:
Scientists studying mice said they have found what may be a master cardiac stem cell -- able to change into the three major cell types in a mammal's heart -- in a finding that could help guide heart repair in people.
Posted: November 23, 2006 9:56am ET
Summary:
Scientists studying mice said they have found what may be a master cardiac stem cell -- able to change into the three major cell types in a mammal's heart -- in a finding that could help guide heart repair in people.
Discovery Of Cardiac Stem Cells May Advance Regenerative Heart Therapy
Source: Cell Press
Date: November 23, 2006
Summary:
An immediate early publication of the journal Cell, published by Cell Press, on Nov. 22, 2006 points to the possible existence of master cardiac stem cells with the capacity to produce all three major tissues of the mammalian heart. A companion Cell paper also published online reports the discovery of a second population of cardiac progenitors, which are capable of forming both cardiac muscle and the smooth muscle found in the heart's blood vessel walls. The findings may also have important implications for regenerative medicine aimed at cardiac repair in patients with congenital or acquired heart disease, according to the researchers.
Date: November 23, 2006
Summary:
An immediate early publication of the journal Cell, published by Cell Press, on Nov. 22, 2006 points to the possible existence of master cardiac stem cells with the capacity to produce all three major tissues of the mammalian heart. A companion Cell paper also published online reports the discovery of a second population of cardiac progenitors, which are capable of forming both cardiac muscle and the smooth muscle found in the heart's blood vessel walls. The findings may also have important implications for regenerative medicine aimed at cardiac repair in patients with congenital or acquired heart disease, according to the researchers.
Researchers isolate a master heart cell
Source: Boston Globe
Posted: November 23, 2006
Summary:
A team of Harvard scientists announced the discovery of a single kind of cell that builds the three main types of heart tissue, an advance that boosts the prospects of using cells to treat heart disease, the nation's top killer. The team identified the heart cell in mice, and proved that it develops into the muscle cells that power the heart, the cells that make up blood vessels, and the smooth muscle cells that allow the vessels to expand and contract. If the human equivalent of the new cells is found, it could be given to patients to rebuild heart tissue that cannot be repaired today. The work could also give biologists new tools to look for heart drugs.
Posted: November 23, 2006
Summary:
A team of Harvard scientists announced the discovery of a single kind of cell that builds the three main types of heart tissue, an advance that boosts the prospects of using cells to treat heart disease, the nation's top killer. The team identified the heart cell in mice, and proved that it develops into the muscle cells that power the heart, the cells that make up blood vessels, and the smooth muscle cells that allow the vessels to expand and contract. If the human equivalent of the new cells is found, it could be given to patients to rebuild heart tissue that cannot be repaired today. The work could also give biologists new tools to look for heart drugs.
Cardiac master cells discovered
Source: BBC NEWS
Published: 23 November 2006 00:26:22 GMT
Summary:
Scientists have discovered what they believe could be cardiac master cells, capable of developing into different tissues in the heart. The breakthrough, published in the journal Cell, raises hopes for new treatments for heart disease.
Published: 23 November 2006 00:26:22 GMT
Summary:
Scientists have discovered what they believe could be cardiac master cells, capable of developing into different tissues in the heart. The breakthrough, published in the journal Cell, raises hopes for new treatments for heart disease.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Master cell could mend a broken heart - Stem-cell research uncovers the heart's foundations.
Source: Nature
Date: 22 November 2006
Summary:
Researchers have found a 'master' stem cell responsible for producing all the major tissues of the heart. The surprising finding brings fresh hope to the idea of using stem cells to repair heart damage.
Date: 22 November 2006
Summary:
Researchers have found a 'master' stem cell responsible for producing all the major tissues of the heart. The surprising finding brings fresh hope to the idea of using stem cells to repair heart damage.
Regenerative heart therapy may get boost from cardiac stem cells
Source: Agence France-Presse (AFP)
Posted: November 22, 2006 2:03 PM ET
Summary:
New research shows master cardiac stem cells may exist that can produce all three major tissues of the mammalian heart, news that could have far-reaching implications in regenerative cardiac repair.
Posted: November 22, 2006 2:03 PM ET
Summary:
New research shows master cardiac stem cells may exist that can produce all three major tissues of the mammalian heart, news that could have far-reaching implications in regenerative cardiac repair.
Finding a Master Heart Cell: Scientists have identified a cardiac stem cell that could be the basis for new heart therapies
Source: Time
Posted: November 22, 2006
Summary:
Scientists at Massachusetts General Hospital report that they have identified a similar mother stem cell from which most heart cells arise. Working with mice, the scientists isolated a cardiac stem cell that generates the three major cell types of the mammalian heart, while another group at the hospital found a stem cell that gives rise to the contracting and smooth muscle cells found in heart vessel walls. The findings could provide a basis for the development of new heart therapies, and become a source of healthy, replacement cells for heart tissue damaged after a heart attack or by heart disease.
Posted: November 22, 2006
Summary:
Scientists at Massachusetts General Hospital report that they have identified a similar mother stem cell from which most heart cells arise. Working with mice, the scientists isolated a cardiac stem cell that generates the three major cell types of the mammalian heart, while another group at the hospital found a stem cell that gives rise to the contracting and smooth muscle cells found in heart vessel walls. The findings could provide a basis for the development of new heart therapies, and become a source of healthy, replacement cells for heart tissue damaged after a heart attack or by heart disease.
Mass. General researchers identify master cardiac stem cell
Source: Massachusetts General Hospital
Date: November 22, 2006
Summary:
Researchers from the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Cardiovascular Research Center have discovered what appears to be a master cardiac stem cell, capable of differentiating into the three major types of cells that make up the mammalian heart. The cells offer new prospects for drug discovery and genetically based models of human disease.
Date: November 22, 2006
Summary:
Researchers from the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Cardiovascular Research Center have discovered what appears to be a master cardiac stem cell, capable of differentiating into the three major types of cells that make up the mammalian heart. The cells offer new prospects for drug discovery and genetically based models of human disease.
Discovery of cardiac stem cells may advance regenerative heart therapy
Source: Cell Press
Date: November 22, 2006
Summary:
A new study published in the journal Cell has revealed the possible existence of master cardiac stem cells with the capacity to produce all three major tissues of the mammalian heart. A companion Cell paper also published online reports the discovery of a second population of cardiac progenitors, which are capable of forming both cardiac muscle and the smooth muscle found in the heart's blood vessel walls. Researchers believe the findings may have important implications for regenerative medicine aimed at cardiac repair in patients with congenital or acquired heart disease, according to the researchers.
Date: November 22, 2006
Summary:
A new study published in the journal Cell has revealed the possible existence of master cardiac stem cells with the capacity to produce all three major tissues of the mammalian heart. A companion Cell paper also published online reports the discovery of a second population of cardiac progenitors, which are capable of forming both cardiac muscle and the smooth muscle found in the heart's blood vessel walls. Researchers believe the findings may have important implications for regenerative medicine aimed at cardiac repair in patients with congenital or acquired heart disease, according to the researchers.
Heart stem cells discovered by three teams
Source: NewScientist.com news service
Posted: 17:00 22 November 2006
Summary:
Three US research groups have identified cardiovascular “precursor” cells from cultures of mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs). The researchers claim that the cells can produce stem cells that give rise to different tissues found in the mammalian heart. They believe it is very likely that these versatile cells will also be found in the embryonic human heart, raising hopes of one day repairing and “rejuvenating” damaged hearts by growing these embryonic stem cell lines in a lab.
Posted: 17:00 22 November 2006
Summary:
Three US research groups have identified cardiovascular “precursor” cells from cultures of mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs). The researchers claim that the cells can produce stem cells that give rise to different tissues found in the mammalian heart. They believe it is very likely that these versatile cells will also be found in the embryonic human heart, raising hopes of one day repairing and “rejuvenating” damaged hearts by growing these embryonic stem cell lines in a lab.
Embryonic Stem Cells Yield Full Range of Heart Tissues: The finding brings experts a step closer to stem cell-based treatments
Source: HealthDay News
Posted: November 22, 2006
Summary:
Harvard University researchers have discovered that a "master" embryonic cardiac stem cell is able to produce all three types of cardiac tissue. In experiments using mice, the team was able to produce cardiac muscle, smooth muscle and "pacemaker" cardiac cells. According to experts, the findings, outlined in two reports published online Nov. 22 in the journal Cell, could enable doctors to repair hearts by growing new heart cells from embryonic stem cells, specialized cells that have can become any type of cell.
Posted: November 22, 2006
Summary:
Harvard University researchers have discovered that a "master" embryonic cardiac stem cell is able to produce all three types of cardiac tissue. In experiments using mice, the team was able to produce cardiac muscle, smooth muscle and "pacemaker" cardiac cells. According to experts, the findings, outlined in two reports published online Nov. 22 in the journal Cell, could enable doctors to repair hearts by growing new heart cells from embryonic stem cells, specialized cells that have can become any type of cell.
Enzyme may aid cancer fight, study shows
Source: The Argus
Posted: November 22, 2006 02:33:14 AM PST
Summary:
Scientists at Children's Hospital Oakland and Research Institute have identified a human enzyme that could help kill cancer cells by regulating cell growth and death by lowering the levels of a lipid called sphingosine-1-phosphate, or S1P. Studying colon cancer in human tissue and mice models, the researchers found that the presence of the enzyme SPL can make cancer cells more vulnerable to chemotherapy. Without the enzyme, cancer cells were more resistant to treatment. a recent study finds. The study, published in the November issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, indicates that boosting the enzymes could help fight cancer.
Posted: November 22, 2006 02:33:14 AM PST
Summary:
Scientists at Children's Hospital Oakland and Research Institute have identified a human enzyme that could help kill cancer cells by regulating cell growth and death by lowering the levels of a lipid called sphingosine-1-phosphate, or S1P. Studying colon cancer in human tissue and mice models, the researchers found that the presence of the enzyme SPL can make cancer cells more vulnerable to chemotherapy. Without the enzyme, cancer cells were more resistant to treatment. a recent study finds. The study, published in the November issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, indicates that boosting the enzymes could help fight cancer.
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Adult Neurogenesis Newly Adult-born Neurons Are Functionally Similar To Mature Neurons
Source: Public Library of Science
Date: November 21, 2006
Summary:
Adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus generates neurons whose function is similar to that of neurons born during development, indicating at least some neurons that develop in adult brains can form connections identical to those formed by neurons that develop early in life. The finding may eventually enable physicians to repair damaged or deteriorated brain tissue.
Commentary: This finding could have implications for treating neurological diseases, injuries and disorders in humans.
Date: November 21, 2006
Summary:
Adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus generates neurons whose function is similar to that of neurons born during development, indicating at least some neurons that develop in adult brains can form connections identical to those formed by neurons that develop early in life. The finding may eventually enable physicians to repair damaged or deteriorated brain tissue.
Commentary: This finding could have implications for treating neurological diseases, injuries and disorders in humans.
Biothera tests stem cell-mobilizer drug
Source: Biothera
Posted: November 21, 2006
Summary:
Biothera, a biotechnology company dedicated to improving immune health, announced it has begun a Phase I/II clinical trial to test the effects of its lead drug compound Imprime PGG used with in combination with another drug, G-CSF, to help move bone-marrow stem cells into the blood. The full news release can be found here:
Posted: November 21, 2006
Summary:
Biothera, a biotechnology company dedicated to improving immune health, announced it has begun a Phase I/II clinical trial to test the effects of its lead drug compound Imprime PGG used with in combination with another drug, G-CSF, to help move bone-marrow stem cells into the blood. The full news release can be found here:
Abbott experimental drug kills leukemia cells
Source: Pharmaceutical Business Review
Date: 20th November 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have found that Abbott Laboratories' experimental drug ABT-737 can destroy acute myeloid leukemia cells. The drug was powerful in its own right, the researchers say, but they found that some acute myeloid (AML) cells were themselves resistant to ABT-737, so they added another drug that knocked out this secondary resistance. Together, these agents may provide a powerful therapy against AML, and could form the basis of a new way to treat the cancer, say the scientists.
Date: 20th November 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have found that Abbott Laboratories' experimental drug ABT-737 can destroy acute myeloid leukemia cells. The drug was powerful in its own right, the researchers say, but they found that some acute myeloid (AML) cells were themselves resistant to ABT-737, so they added another drug that knocked out this secondary resistance. Together, these agents may provide a powerful therapy against AML, and could form the basis of a new way to treat the cancer, say the scientists.
Adult Stem Cells Give Hope for Healing
Source: Fox News
Posted: November 20, 2006
This post is a feature that examines and explains adult stem cell research.
Posted: November 20, 2006
This post is a feature that examines and explains adult stem cell research.
'Cancer stem cells' behind colon cancer: research
Source: Agence-France Presse (AFP)
Date: November 21, 2006 12:39 AM ET
Summary:
A few bad stem cells may be responsible for most cancers, Canadian scientists looking into the root causes of colon cancer reported, indicating hope for better cancer treatments in the next decade. Abnormal stem cells have also been identified as the source of the disease in certain types of leukemia, as well as in breast and brain tumors. Researchers hope the findings may lead to better cancer treatments that target these stem cells.
Date: November 21, 2006 12:39 AM ET
Summary:
A few bad stem cells may be responsible for most cancers, Canadian scientists looking into the root causes of colon cancer reported, indicating hope for better cancer treatments in the next decade. Abnormal stem cells have also been identified as the source of the disease in certain types of leukemia, as well as in breast and brain tumors. Researchers hope the findings may lead to better cancer treatments that target these stem cells.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Advance helps explain stem cell behavior
Source: Oregon State University
Date: November 20, 2006
Summary:
Biochemists at Oregon State University have developed a new method to identify the "DNA-binding transcription factors" that help steer stem cells into forming the wide variety of cells that ultimately make up all the organs and parts of a living vertebrate animal.
Date: November 20, 2006
Summary:
Biochemists at Oregon State University have developed a new method to identify the "DNA-binding transcription factors" that help steer stem cells into forming the wide variety of cells that ultimately make up all the organs and parts of a living vertebrate animal.
Colon cancer stem cells identified
Source: The Scientist
Posted: 20th November 2006 02:21 PM GMT
Summary:
Scientists have identified a population of human colon cancer stem cells that can initiate tumor growth and differentiate into mature tumors
Posted: 20th November 2006 02:21 PM GMT
Summary:
Scientists have identified a population of human colon cancer stem cells that can initiate tumor growth and differentiate into mature tumors
Stem Cells May Trigger Tumors
Source: Medical News Today
Posted 20 November 2006 - 10:00am (PST)
Summary:
In two separate studies published in the journal Nature, scientists discovered that colon (cancer) stem cells were causing colon cancer tumors in mice. The researchers say cancer treatments will have to target cancer stem cells.
Commentary: This finding could provide scientists and researchers with new strategies to develop cancer treatments.
Posted 20 November 2006 - 10:00am (PST)
Summary:
In two separate studies published in the journal Nature, scientists discovered that colon (cancer) stem cells were causing colon cancer tumors in mice. The researchers say cancer treatments will have to target cancer stem cells.
Commentary: This finding could provide scientists and researchers with new strategies to develop cancer treatments.
Cancer stem cells start tumors in mice
Source: Reuters
Posted: November 20, 2006 8:23am ET
Summary:
Stem cells -- the master cells that give rise to all the blood and tissue in the body -- may also be responsible for tumors, according to two separate studies. Canadian and Italian researchers both found that specialized colon cancer stem cells appeared to be the sources of colon cancer tumors in mice. Their findings, published in the journal Nature, support the belief that future cancer treatments will have to home in on cancer stem cells.
Posted: November 20, 2006 8:23am ET
Summary:
Stem cells -- the master cells that give rise to all the blood and tissue in the body -- may also be responsible for tumors, according to two separate studies. Canadian and Italian researchers both found that specialized colon cancer stem cells appeared to be the sources of colon cancer tumors in mice. Their findings, published in the journal Nature, support the belief that future cancer treatments will have to home in on cancer stem cells.
Stem cells core of more cancers: New discoveries that pinpoint bad seeds leading to a major redirection of research
Source: The Globe and Mail
Posted: November 20, 2006 3:47 AM EST
Summary:
New discoveries about the basic biology of cancer are revealing that the root cause of the disease is not tumors, as had long been previously thought, but stem cells that become cancerous. In a new study published the journal Nature, researchers have found that abnormal stem cells are the source of colon cancer. The finding is leading scientists to change the focus of their research to target the cells.
Commentary: This finding is significant, as it could provide physicians with new strategies to detect cancers early and treat them effectively before they spread.
Posted: November 20, 2006 3:47 AM EST
Summary:
New discoveries about the basic biology of cancer are revealing that the root cause of the disease is not tumors, as had long been previously thought, but stem cells that become cancerous. In a new study published the journal Nature, researchers have found that abnormal stem cells are the source of colon cancer. The finding is leading scientists to change the focus of their research to target the cells.
Commentary: This finding is significant, as it could provide physicians with new strategies to detect cancers early and treat them effectively before they spread.
One step closer to cancer's Holy Grail: Treating 'stem cells' like treating root of weed, scientist proclaims
Source: Toronto Star
Posted: November 20, 2006. 05:17 AM
Summary:
Scientists have found strong evidence that only a small proportion of cells drive the formation of tumors causing to colon cancer. Colon cancer is the fourth type of cancer in which stem cells have been found to be its root cause, lending credibility to the idea that the cells may be the source of all cancers. The discovery could lead to earlier dection and produce more effective treatments for the disease.
Posted: November 20, 2006. 05:17 AM
Summary:
Scientists have found strong evidence that only a small proportion of cells drive the formation of tumors causing to colon cancer. Colon cancer is the fourth type of cancer in which stem cells have been found to be its root cause, lending credibility to the idea that the cells may be the source of all cancers. The discovery could lead to earlier dection and produce more effective treatments for the disease.
Another Boost For Stem Cell Research
Source: University of New South Wales
Posted: November 20, 2006
Summary:
Australian researchers have proven that tumours can be prevented from forming when embryonic stem cells are transplanted by placing the embryonic cells inside microcapsules made from a product of seaweed, called alginate. The discovery removes an obstacle to human embryonic stem cell research, and could ultimately lead to safer embryonic stem cell treatments for patients.
Posted: November 20, 2006
Summary:
Australian researchers have proven that tumours can be prevented from forming when embryonic stem cells are transplanted by placing the embryonic cells inside microcapsules made from a product of seaweed, called alginate. The discovery removes an obstacle to human embryonic stem cell research, and could ultimately lead to safer embryonic stem cell treatments for patients.
Nerve Fibers Need Specific Growth Factor Chemical To Form Connections Within The Brain
Source: University of California - Irvine
Date: November 20, 2006
Summary:
A discovery on how neural circuitry develops to aid proper cerebral cortex activity may help explain the memory and cognitive decline seen in Alzheimer's disease patients – a discovery that could point toward potential treatments, according to UC Irvine scientists.
Date: November 20, 2006
Summary:
A discovery on how neural circuitry develops to aid proper cerebral cortex activity may help explain the memory and cognitive decline seen in Alzheimer's disease patients – a discovery that could point toward potential treatments, according to UC Irvine scientists.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Colon cancer appears to arise from cancer stem cells, mice study shows
Source: Canadian Press
Posted: November 19, 2006 5:00 PM
Summary:
Scientists have discovered that colon cancer arises from stem cells specific to the tumour after human colorectal tumour cells were implanted in mice. The finding could lead to more targeted treatments to prevent recurrence of the disease.
Posted: November 19, 2006 5:00 PM
Summary:
Scientists have discovered that colon cancer arises from stem cells specific to the tumour after human colorectal tumour cells were implanted in mice. The finding could lead to more targeted treatments to prevent recurrence of the disease.
Scientists Regenerate Wing In Chick Embryo
Source: Salk Institute
Date: November 19, 2006
Summary:
Most animals have lost the ability to replace missing limbs. Now, a research team at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies has been able to regenerate a wing in a chick embryo -- a species not known to be able to regrow limbs - suggesting that the potential for such regeneration exists innately in all vertebrates, including humans.
Date: November 19, 2006
Summary:
Most animals have lost the ability to replace missing limbs. Now, a research team at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies has been able to regenerate a wing in a chick embryo -- a species not known to be able to regrow limbs - suggesting that the potential for such regeneration exists innately in all vertebrates, including humans.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Stem cells treat wasted muscles: Dogs with muscular dystrophy walk better after injections.
Source: Nature
Date: 15 November 2006
Summary:
An infusion of stem cells scraped from blood vessels has helped dogs with a form of muscular dystrophy to walk more normally, perhaps heralding a treatment for the human disease.
Date: 15 November 2006
Summary:
An infusion of stem cells scraped from blood vessels has helped dogs with a form of muscular dystrophy to walk more normally, perhaps heralding a treatment for the human disease.
Neural stem cell growth stimulated
Source: Los Angeles Times
Date: November 18, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have found a way to stimulate the growth of neural stem cells in the brains of adult mice, potentially eventually utilizing the the brain's natural capacity for repair to help people with diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Date: November 18, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have found a way to stimulate the growth of neural stem cells in the brains of adult mice, potentially eventually utilizing the the brain's natural capacity for repair to help people with diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Friday, November 17, 2006
Targeting Leukemic Stem Cells By BCL-2 Inhibition
Source: University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center
Date: November 17, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center have found, in laboratory studies, that the experimental drug ABT-737 which has shown promise in some cancers, can destroy acute myeloid leukemia (AML) blast, progenitor and even stem cells that are often resistant to standard chemotherapy treatment.
The drug was powerful in its own right, the researchers say, but they found that some AML cells were themselves resistant to ABT-737, so they added another drug that knocked out this secondary resistance. Together, these agents may provide a powerful therapy against AML, and could form the basis of a new way to treat the cancer, say the scientists, whose study was published in the November 14 issue of the journal, Cancer Cell.
Date: November 17, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center have found, in laboratory studies, that the experimental drug ABT-737 which has shown promise in some cancers, can destroy acute myeloid leukemia (AML) blast, progenitor and even stem cells that are often resistant to standard chemotherapy treatment.
The drug was powerful in its own right, the researchers say, but they found that some AML cells were themselves resistant to ABT-737, so they added another drug that knocked out this secondary resistance. Together, these agents may provide a powerful therapy against AML, and could form the basis of a new way to treat the cancer, say the scientists, whose study was published in the November 14 issue of the journal, Cancer Cell.
Scripps researchers find new method for eye repair
Source: San Diego Daily Transcript via Yahoo! News
Date: November 17, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at The Scripps Institute in San Diego have found a way to repair and normalize blood vessels in the eyes of mice using stem cells obtained from bone marrow. The findings could have implications for developing human treatments for a certain type of eye diseases, such as a type of blindness that can occur in people with diabetes called diabetic retinopathy or retinopathy of prematurity.
Date: November 17, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at The Scripps Institute in San Diego have found a way to repair and normalize blood vessels in the eyes of mice using stem cells obtained from bone marrow. The findings could have implications for developing human treatments for a certain type of eye diseases, such as a type of blindness that can occur in people with diabetes called diabetic retinopathy or retinopathy of prematurity.
Bioheart, Inc. Expands Clinical Trials Of Adult Myogenic Stem Cell Treatment For Heart Attack And Advanced Heart Failure Patients
Source: Bioheart, Inc.
Date: November 17, 2006
Summary:
Bioheart, Inc., a biotechnology company focused on the development of innovative cell therapies designed to repair areas of damaged muscle tissue in a patient's heart and improve cardiac function, is expanding its United States and European clinical trials of its MyoCell(TM) adult myogenic (muscle) stem cell composition and MyoCath(R) needle-injection catheter product candidates.
Date: November 17, 2006
Summary:
Bioheart, Inc., a biotechnology company focused on the development of innovative cell therapies designed to repair areas of damaged muscle tissue in a patient's heart and improve cardiac function, is expanding its United States and European clinical trials of its MyoCell(TM) adult myogenic (muscle) stem cell composition and MyoCath(R) needle-injection catheter product candidates.
Stem cell hope for chemotherapy patients
Source: Apollo Life Sciences
Date: November 17, 2006
Summary:
In a world first, Apollo Life Sciences has revealed that two of its human proteins, which are wholly derived from human cells, are up to 53% faster in generating vital white blood cells used in the treatment of chemotherapy patients. This means cancer patients who normally have to wait for up to three weeks for white blood cell levels to regenerate before embarking on subsequent courses of chemotherapy can access potentially life saving treatments earlier. In the future, it is anticipated that patients will benefit from quicker recovery times from chemotherapy, as well as avoiding a host of side effects involved in their treatment.
Date: November 17, 2006
Summary:
In a world first, Apollo Life Sciences has revealed that two of its human proteins, which are wholly derived from human cells, are up to 53% faster in generating vital white blood cells used in the treatment of chemotherapy patients. This means cancer patients who normally have to wait for up to three weeks for white blood cell levels to regenerate before embarking on subsequent courses of chemotherapy can access potentially life saving treatments earlier. In the future, it is anticipated that patients will benefit from quicker recovery times from chemotherapy, as well as avoiding a host of side effects involved in their treatment.
Investigators Discover Modified Growth Control in Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Source: University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester
Date: November 17, 2006
Summary:
Two papers published by University of Massachusetts Medical School (UMMS) Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Center investigators report striking changes in control of growth in human embryonic stem cells. The studies were carried out on a National Institutes of Health funded grant using two of the six federal government approved human embryonic stem cell lines.
The implications of this work are significant. There is a pressing need to enhance capabilities for tissue regeneration, particularly for the treatment of age-related skeletal degenerative diseases that include osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, that can be met by stem cells. Utilizing human embryonic stem cells to reverse the catastrophic complications associated with diabetes, renal failure, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy and Alzheimer’s with stem cells is a realistic expectation.
Date: November 17, 2006
Summary:
Two papers published by University of Massachusetts Medical School (UMMS) Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Center investigators report striking changes in control of growth in human embryonic stem cells. The studies were carried out on a National Institutes of Health funded grant using two of the six federal government approved human embryonic stem cell lines.
The implications of this work are significant. There is a pressing need to enhance capabilities for tissue regeneration, particularly for the treatment of age-related skeletal degenerative diseases that include osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, that can be met by stem cells. Utilizing human embryonic stem cells to reverse the catastrophic complications associated with diabetes, renal failure, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy and Alzheimer’s with stem cells is a realistic expectation.
Penn Prof. Makes 'Hair'-Raising Stem Cell Discovery
Source: Evening Bulletin - Philadelphia, PA
Posted: November 17, 2006
Summary:
A pathology researcher at the University of Pennsylvania discovered a new type of adult stem cell that can be obtained from human hair follicles. The hair spheres can be harvested and so far differentiated into six different cells, including neurons, adipose, and muscle tissue, among others. The finding could have a broad clinical application for treating Alzheimer's disease and muscular dystrophy.
Posted: November 17, 2006
Summary:
A pathology researcher at the University of Pennsylvania discovered a new type of adult stem cell that can be obtained from human hair follicles. The hair spheres can be harvested and so far differentiated into six different cells, including neurons, adipose, and muscle tissue, among others. The finding could have a broad clinical application for treating Alzheimer's disease and muscular dystrophy.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Researchers Stimulate Growth of Neural Stem Cells in Adult Brain for Treatment of Neurological Disorders
Source: California Institute of Technology
Date: November 15. 2006
Summary:
In a development that could potentially benefit victims of degenerative neurological diseases, researchers have succeeded in stimulating the growth of neural stem cells in the adult brain. Such cells could then be directed towards repairing one's own brain.
Commentary: It will be important for any human trials of this new procedure to be closely monitored in order to minimize health risks to patients and ensure that any intended treatment that is part of the trial is both safe and effective.
Date: November 15. 2006
Summary:
In a development that could potentially benefit victims of degenerative neurological diseases, researchers have succeeded in stimulating the growth of neural stem cells in the adult brain. Such cells could then be directed towards repairing one's own brain.
Commentary: It will be important for any human trials of this new procedure to be closely monitored in order to minimize health risks to patients and ensure that any intended treatment that is part of the trial is both safe and effective.
Aussie scientists solve stem cell problem
Source: United Press International
Posted: November 14, 2006
Summary:
Australian researchers have found a way of allowing stem cells to differentiate into mature cells while preventing cancer tumors from forming when the cells are implanted by placing them in a capsule made from seaweed, which has been the fear of some doctors in using stem cells to treat disease.
Commentary: This finding could have implications for improving the safety of human stem cell transplants.
Posted: November 14, 2006
Summary:
Australian researchers have found a way of allowing stem cells to differentiate into mature cells while preventing cancer tumors from forming when the cells are implanted by placing them in a capsule made from seaweed, which has been the fear of some doctors in using stem cells to treat disease.
Commentary: This finding could have implications for improving the safety of human stem cell transplants.
Muscular dystrophy treatment studied
Source: United Press International
Date: November 16, 2006
Summary:
Italian scientists using dogs have demonstrated a potential stem cell treatment for muscular dystrophy that corrects most dystrophic abnormalities.
Date: November 16, 2006
Summary:
Italian scientists using dogs have demonstrated a potential stem cell treatment for muscular dystrophy that corrects most dystrophic abnormalities.
Doernbecher Children's Hospital Team Completes First-Ever Stem Cell Transplant in Human Brain
Source: Oregon Health & Science University
Date: November 16, 2006
Summary:
Neurosurgeons and physicians at Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Oregon Health & Science University, yesterday, Nov. 14, performed the first transplant of purified human fetal neural stem cells into the brain of a study participant with neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL), also known as Batten disease. NCL is a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disorder that affects infants and children. The transplant is part of a Phase 1 clinical trial to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of a human central nervous stem cell product developed by StemCells, Inc., Palo Alto, Calif. This one-year trial will involve up to six children with NCL.
Date: November 16, 2006
Summary:
Neurosurgeons and physicians at Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Oregon Health & Science University, yesterday, Nov. 14, performed the first transplant of purified human fetal neural stem cells into the brain of a study participant with neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL), also known as Batten disease. NCL is a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disorder that affects infants and children. The transplant is part of a Phase 1 clinical trial to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of a human central nervous stem cell product developed by StemCells, Inc., Palo Alto, Calif. This one-year trial will involve up to six children with NCL.
First Human Brain Stem Cell Transplant
Source: KOIN 6 - TV / KOIN.com - Portland, OR
Posted: November 16, 2006
Summary:
In a pioneering surgery, neurosurgeons at Oregon Health and Science University transplanted fetal stem cells into the brain of a child with Batten disease, a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disorder that affects infants and small children. The transplant is part of a clinical trial to test the procedure's safety effectiveness.
Posted: November 16, 2006
Summary:
In a pioneering surgery, neurosurgeons at Oregon Health and Science University transplanted fetal stem cells into the brain of a child with Batten disease, a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disorder that affects infants and small children. The transplant is part of a clinical trial to test the procedure's safety effectiveness.
Stem Cells Help Dogs With Muscular Dystrophy
Source: Medical News Today
Posted: 16 November 2006 - 4:00am (PST)
Summary:
Dogs with Duchenne muscular dystrophy experienced a return of muscle strength after receiving stem cell therapy, say scientists from Italy and France in a study in the journal Nature. Duchenne muscular dystrophy affects about one in every 3,500 male humans - a genetic mutation means a gene lacks dystrophin, a crucial protein for muscle health. The patient's muscles gradually weaken, he eventually loses mobility and usually dies young. The scientists believe this study could eventually lead the way to effective treatment for humans with muscular dystrophy (MD)
Posted: 16 November 2006 - 4:00am (PST)
Summary:
Dogs with Duchenne muscular dystrophy experienced a return of muscle strength after receiving stem cell therapy, say scientists from Italy and France in a study in the journal Nature. Duchenne muscular dystrophy affects about one in every 3,500 male humans - a genetic mutation means a gene lacks dystrophin, a crucial protein for muscle health. The patient's muscles gradually weaken, he eventually loses mobility and usually dies young. The scientists believe this study could eventually lead the way to effective treatment for humans with muscular dystrophy (MD)
Heart 'can carry out own repairs'
Source: BBC NEWS
Posted: 16 November 2006, 00:38 GMT
Summary:
Scientists have shown that cells in the heart's outer layer can migrate deeper into a failing organ to carry out essential repairs.
The migration of progenitor cells is controlled by a protein called thymosin beta 4, already known to help reduce muscle cell loss after a heart attack. The discovery opens up the possibility of using the protein to develop more effective treatments for heart disease.
Posted: 16 November 2006, 00:38 GMT
Summary:
Scientists have shown that cells in the heart's outer layer can migrate deeper into a failing organ to carry out essential repairs.
The migration of progenitor cells is controlled by a protein called thymosin beta 4, already known to help reduce muscle cell loss after a heart attack. The discovery opens up the possibility of using the protein to develop more effective treatments for heart disease.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Stem Cells Show Versatility
Source: Associated Press
Posted: November 15, 2006; 2:27 PM ET
Summary:
Stem cells are once again demonstrating their flexibility in being able to possibly be applied to treat a variety of human diseases and medical conditions One new study finds that they can ease symptoms of muscular dystrophy in dogs, a possibly eventually leading to a human therapy. Another revealed that stem cells recovered from amniotic fluid can be used to grow heart valves.
Posted: November 15, 2006; 2:27 PM ET
Summary:
Stem cells are once again demonstrating their flexibility in being able to possibly be applied to treat a variety of human diseases and medical conditions One new study finds that they can ease symptoms of muscular dystrophy in dogs, a possibly eventually leading to a human therapy. Another revealed that stem cells recovered from amniotic fluid can be used to grow heart valves.
Dog helps find cure for fatal muscle disease
Source: Daily Telegraph
Posted: 15 November 2006
Summary:
A stem-cell treatment for muscular dystrophy, a degenerative and fatal disease, which mostly affects boys and young men, could be available for testing on patients within two years, following a series of experiments by Italian researchers on dogs that have Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a form of muscular dystrophy caused by a lack of the protein dystrophin in muscle fibres.
Posted: 15 November 2006
Summary:
A stem-cell treatment for muscular dystrophy, a degenerative and fatal disease, which mostly affects boys and young men, could be available for testing on patients within two years, following a series of experiments by Italian researchers on dogs that have Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a form of muscular dystrophy caused by a lack of the protein dystrophin in muscle fibres.
Amniotic Stem Cells Offer Hope Against Congenital Heart Defects
Source: HealthDay News
Date: November 14, 2006
Summary:
If findings from a new Swiss study are valid, in the future doctors will be able to use a simple procedure to treat congenital heart defects by extracting stem cells from the mother's amniotic fluid and use them to make a new heart valve, ready to place in the baby as soon as it is born.
Date: November 14, 2006
Summary:
If findings from a new Swiss study are valid, in the future doctors will be able to use a simple procedure to treat congenital heart defects by extracting stem cells from the mother's amniotic fluid and use them to make a new heart valve, ready to place in the baby as soon as it is born.
Heart Valves Grown From Womb Fluid Cells
Source: Associated Press
Posted: November 15, 2006 11:29 AM
Summary:
Scientists have created human heart valves using stem cells from the fluid that cushions babies in the womb - offering a revolutionary approach that may eventually be used to treat damaged hearts.
Posted: November 15, 2006 11:29 AM
Summary:
Scientists have created human heart valves using stem cells from the fluid that cushions babies in the womb - offering a revolutionary approach that may eventually be used to treat damaged hearts.
Muscular Dystrophy: Stem Cell Help? Stem Cell Treatment Shows Potential in Lab Tests on Dogs
Source: WebMD Medical News
Date: November 15, 2006
Summary:
Italian researchers report in the journal Nature that lab tests on dogs show that adult stem cells may help treat a certain type of muscular dystrophy, say Italian researchers, paving the way for start of "clinical experimentation" for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Date: November 15, 2006
Summary:
Italian researchers report in the journal Nature that lab tests on dogs show that adult stem cells may help treat a certain type of muscular dystrophy, say Italian researchers, paving the way for start of "clinical experimentation" for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Stem Cell Injections Help Dogs With Muscular Dystrophy
Source: Associated Press
Posted: November 15, 2006 10 00 AM
Summary:
In promising new research, stem cells worked remarkably well at easing symptoms of muscular dystrophy in dogs, an experiment that experts call a significant step toward treating people. The cells helped strengthen muscle by fusing with regenerating muscle fibers and pumping out a protein that's missing in dogs with the disease.
Posted: November 15, 2006 10 00 AM
Summary:
In promising new research, stem cells worked remarkably well at easing symptoms of muscular dystrophy in dogs, an experiment that experts call a significant step toward treating people. The cells helped strengthen muscle by fusing with regenerating muscle fibers and pumping out a protein that's missing in dogs with the disease.
Stem Cells: New Hope on the Horizon
Source: American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2006 via (Ivanhoe Newswire
Date: November 15, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2006 in Chicago are reporting on three breakthrough ways to use a patient's own stem cells to help repair heart damage: (1) Amniotic stem cells (2) Fat stem cells and (3) Human and animal stem cells.
Date: November 15, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2006 in Chicago are reporting on three breakthrough ways to use a patient's own stem cells to help repair heart damage: (1) Amniotic stem cells (2) Fat stem cells and (3) Human and animal stem cells.
Stem cell tests offer muscular dystrophy hope
Source: Reuters
Posted: November 15, 2006 1:06pm ET
Summary:
A new stem cell treatment developed by Italian scientists has improved the ability of dogs with muscular dystrophy to walk. The treatment could have future implications for treating Duchenne muscular dystrophy in humans.
Posted: November 15, 2006 1:06pm ET
Summary:
A new stem cell treatment developed by Italian scientists has improved the ability of dogs with muscular dystrophy to walk. The treatment could have future implications for treating Duchenne muscular dystrophy in humans.
Stem cells 'treat muscle disease'
Source: BBC NEWS
Posted: 15 November 2006, 18:00 GMT
Summary:
A team of French and Italian scientists transplanted a form of stem cells, gathered from blood vessels that naturally become muscle cells, into dogs with a form of muscular dystrophy (MD). The stem cell treatment signficantly improved symptoms of muscular dystrophy. Scientists said the finding was important progress that bolstered the idea that stem cells could be used to treat MD. They called the experiment a a significant advance that could lead to future trials in humans.
Posted: 15 November 2006, 18:00 GMT
Summary:
A team of French and Italian scientists transplanted a form of stem cells, gathered from blood vessels that naturally become muscle cells, into dogs with a form of muscular dystrophy (MD). The stem cell treatment signficantly improved symptoms of muscular dystrophy. Scientists said the finding was important progress that bolstered the idea that stem cells could be used to treat MD. They called the experiment a a significant advance that could lead to future trials in humans.
StemCells, Inc. Announces First Human Neural Stem Cell Transplant
Source: StemCells, Inc.
Posted: November 15, 2006
Summary:
StemCells, Inc. (NASDAQ: STEM) today announced that the first transplantation of the Company's proprietary human neural stem cell product--HuCNS-SC(TM)-- took place yesterday at the Oregon Health & Science University's (OHSU) Doernbecher Children's Hospital. This transplant is the first of six that are planned as part of the Company's Phase I clinical trial designed to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of HuCNS-SC as a treatment for infantile and late infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL). NCL, which is often referred to as Batten disease, is a rare and fatal neurodegenerative condition afflicting infants and children.
Commentary: This seems to be a significant step toward understanding and treating neurolgical disorders in humans.
Posted: November 15, 2006
Summary:
StemCells, Inc. (NASDAQ: STEM) today announced that the first transplantation of the Company's proprietary human neural stem cell product--HuCNS-SC(TM)-- took place yesterday at the Oregon Health & Science University's (OHSU) Doernbecher Children's Hospital. This transplant is the first of six that are planned as part of the Company's Phase I clinical trial designed to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of HuCNS-SC as a treatment for infantile and late infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL). NCL, which is often referred to as Batten disease, is a rare and fatal neurodegenerative condition afflicting infants and children.
Commentary: This seems to be a significant step toward understanding and treating neurolgical disorders in humans.
Protein aids in brain repair
Source: Pasadena Star-News
Posted: November 14, 2006 11:26:08 PM PST
Summary:
Scientists at the California Institute of Technology have discovered how to increase the number of new brain stem cells in mice, paving the way for advancements in understandingn neurological diseases and conditions such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis.
Posted: November 14, 2006 11:26:08 PM PST
Summary:
Scientists at the California Institute of Technology have discovered how to increase the number of new brain stem cells in mice, paving the way for advancements in understandingn neurological diseases and conditions such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Using The Body's Own Stem Cells To Grow New Arteries
Source: ABC 7 / KGO-TV - San Francisco
Posted: November 12, 2006
Summary:
Doctors have developed a new treatment for blocked arteries using adult stem cells that allows patients to grow new healthy blood vessels to improve circulation.
Commentary: Early trials of this new treatment appear to be promising. Maybe it will be able to be tried in a larger number of patients and treat them successfully.
Posted: November 12, 2006
Summary:
Doctors have developed a new treatment for blocked arteries using adult stem cells that allows patients to grow new healthy blood vessels to improve circulation.
Commentary: Early trials of this new treatment appear to be promising. Maybe it will be able to be tried in a larger number of patients and treat them successfully.
Researchers spur growth of adult brain stem cells
Source: Reuters via Yahoo! News
Posted: November 14, 2006 5:18 PM ET
Summary:
Researchers have found a way to spur the growth of neural stem cells in the brains of adult mice with an eye toward harnessing the brain's innate capacity for repair to help people with diseases such as Alzheimer's. Determining how these stem cells can be deployed to replace cells in mice whose brains are damaged in ways resembling Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis in people is the next key step, researchers said.
Commentary: Further research on this new technique might provide researchers with new insights into how to enable adult neural stem cell proliferation in humans.
Posted: November 14, 2006 5:18 PM ET
Summary:
Researchers have found a way to spur the growth of neural stem cells in the brains of adult mice with an eye toward harnessing the brain's innate capacity for repair to help people with diseases such as Alzheimer's. Determining how these stem cells can be deployed to replace cells in mice whose brains are damaged in ways resembling Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis in people is the next key step, researchers said.
Commentary: Further research on this new technique might provide researchers with new insights into how to enable adult neural stem cell proliferation in humans.
Researchers spur growth of adult brain stem cells
Source: Reuters
Posted: November 14, 2006 5:18pm ET
Summary:
Researchers have found a way to spur the growth of neural stem cells in the brains of adult mice with an eye toward harnessing the brain's innate capacity for repair to help people with diseases such as Alzheimer's. Determining how these stem cells can be deployed to replace cells in mice whose brains are damaged in ways resembling Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis in people is the next key step, researchers said.
Commentary: Further research on this new technique might provide researchers with new insights into how to enable adult neural stem cell proliferation in humans.
Posted: November 14, 2006 5:18pm ET
Summary:
Researchers have found a way to spur the growth of neural stem cells in the brains of adult mice with an eye toward harnessing the brain's innate capacity for repair to help people with diseases such as Alzheimer's. Determining how these stem cells can be deployed to replace cells in mice whose brains are damaged in ways resembling Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis in people is the next key step, researchers said.
Commentary: Further research on this new technique might provide researchers with new insights into how to enable adult neural stem cell proliferation in humans.
Amniotic Stem Cells Offer Hope Against Congenital Heart Defects
Source: HealthDay News
Posted: November 14, 2006
Summary:
If findings from a Swiss study are confirmed, doctors will be able to use a simple procedure to extract and use them to make a new heart valve, ready to to place in the baby as soon as it is born. The potential implications of the procedure could reveolutionize treatment for congenital heart defects using stem cells from the mother's amniotic fluid.
Posted: November 14, 2006
Summary:
If findings from a Swiss study are confirmed, doctors will be able to use a simple procedure to extract and use them to make a new heart valve, ready to to place in the baby as soon as it is born. The potential implications of the procedure could reveolutionize treatment for congenital heart defects using stem cells from the mother's amniotic fluid.
Adult Pig Stem Cells Show Promise In Repairing Animals' Heart Attack Damage
Source: Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions
Date: November 14, 2006
Summary:
Johns Hopkins scientists have successfully grown large numbers of stem cells taken from adult pigs' healthy heart tissue and used the cells to repair some of the tissue damage done to those organs by lab-induced heart attacks. Pigs' hearts closely resemble those in humans, making them a useful model in such research. They are believed to be the first results in animal studies to show that so-called cardiac stem cell therapy can be successfully applied with minimally invasive methods to circumstances closely resembling those in humans.
Date: November 14, 2006
Summary:
Johns Hopkins scientists have successfully grown large numbers of stem cells taken from adult pigs' healthy heart tissue and used the cells to repair some of the tissue damage done to those organs by lab-induced heart attacks. Pigs' hearts closely resemble those in humans, making them a useful model in such research. They are believed to be the first results in animal studies to show that so-called cardiac stem cell therapy can be successfully applied with minimally invasive methods to circumstances closely resembling those in humans.
Stem cell breakthrough
Source: Courier Mail
Posted: November 13, 2006 11:00pm
Summary:
A new discovery by Australian scientists has reveal that seaweed can be used to overcome a major medical risk that can arise when embryonic stem cells are implanted in humans. Researchers at the University of New South Wales have devised a technique that prevents the cells from forming tumors when they are injected into the body by encasing each cell in a tiny capsule made from a seaweed extract, called alginate, before transplantation.
Posted: November 13, 2006 11:00pm
Summary:
A new discovery by Australian scientists has reveal that seaweed can be used to overcome a major medical risk that can arise when embryonic stem cells are implanted in humans. Researchers at the University of New South Wales have devised a technique that prevents the cells from forming tumors when they are injected into the body by encasing each cell in a tiny capsule made from a seaweed extract, called alginate, before transplantation.
U researchers making strides in stem cell technology: Working with St. Paul's BioE Inc., researchers successfully grew lung cells.
Source: Minnesota Daily
Posted: November 14, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Minnesota in partnership with BioE, a St. Paul-based biotechnology company, successfully transformed stem cells found in umbilical cord blood into a kind of cell found in the lungs called type II alveolar cells, which prevent air sacs in the lungs from collapsing, helping people breathe. Presently, the cells could enable researchers to test for latent effects of smoking, pollution or even medications on the respiratory system. The researchers believe the cells may eventually be able to be used to treat diseases such as emphysema or cystic fibrosis.
Posted: November 14, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Minnesota in partnership with BioE, a St. Paul-based biotechnology company, successfully transformed stem cells found in umbilical cord blood into a kind of cell found in the lungs called type II alveolar cells, which prevent air sacs in the lungs from collapsing, helping people breathe. Presently, the cells could enable researchers to test for latent effects of smoking, pollution or even medications on the respiratory system. The researchers believe the cells may eventually be able to be used to treat diseases such as emphysema or cystic fibrosis.
Scientists create artificial liver from stem cells
Source: The Yomiuri Shimbun
Posted: November 10, 2006
Summary:
Japanese Researchers have created an artificial liver from embryonic stem cells and implanted it in mice with liver failure, improving their condition. The research is expected to be applied to assist with devices for patients with lowered liver functions from hepatitis or other diseases.
Posted: November 10, 2006
Summary:
Japanese Researchers have created an artificial liver from embryonic stem cells and implanted it in mice with liver failure, improving their condition. The research is expected to be applied to assist with devices for patients with lowered liver functions from hepatitis or other diseases.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Stem cell threat weeded out
Source: Sydney Morning Herald
Posted: November 14, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have discovered that tumor formation can be prevented by encasing the cells in microscopic capsules made from a seaweed extract before they are transplanted. The advance overcomes a major obstacle that has hindered the progress of embryonic stem cell research and could improve the safety of human embyonic stem cell treatments.
Posted: November 14, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have discovered that tumor formation can be prevented by encasing the cells in microscopic capsules made from a seaweed extract before they are transplanted. The advance overcomes a major obstacle that has hindered the progress of embryonic stem cell research and could improve the safety of human embyonic stem cell treatments.
Initial Trials Indicate Reduced Intensity Stem Cell Transplant Safe For Scleroderma Patients
Source: American College of Rheumatology
Posted: November 13, 2006
Summary:
Early-stage clinical trials showed that reduced intensity hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in patients with systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) has proven safe and well tolerated, according new research. If results from the trial are valid over a long period of time, HSCT may become an acceptable therapeutic option for more individuals afflicted with severe forms of autoimmune disease.
Posted: November 13, 2006
Summary:
Early-stage clinical trials showed that reduced intensity hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in patients with systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) has proven safe and well tolerated, according new research. If results from the trial are valid over a long period of time, HSCT may become an acceptable therapeutic option for more individuals afflicted with severe forms of autoimmune disease.
Identification Of A Key Gene Required For Brain Neural Circuit Formation
Source: Institut de recherches cliniques de Montreal
Date: November 13, 2006
Summary:
An international team of scientists have discovered that a gene called Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) is an axonal attractant for brain and spinal cord neurons, which could help treat spinal cord injuries and neurodegenerative diseases. They showed that Shh exerts its attractive effect through a novel receptor named Boc. Remarkably, this novel Shh receptor is absolutely required for the axon guidance role of Shh and the role of Shh in brain neural circuit formation. The findings could provide a better understanding of the structure and formation of the spinal cord and nervous system and identify new strategies to treat neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, or brain and spinal cord injuries.
Date: November 13, 2006
Summary:
An international team of scientists have discovered that a gene called Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) is an axonal attractant for brain and spinal cord neurons, which could help treat spinal cord injuries and neurodegenerative diseases. They showed that Shh exerts its attractive effect through a novel receptor named Boc. Remarkably, this novel Shh receptor is absolutely required for the axon guidance role of Shh and the role of Shh in brain neural circuit formation. The findings could provide a better understanding of the structure and formation of the spinal cord and nervous system and identify new strategies to treat neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, or brain and spinal cord injuries.
Scientists Discover Way To Block Growth Of Prostate Cancer Cells
Source: European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer
Date: November 13, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have discovered for the first time a specific biochemical pathway by which the sex hormone, androgen, increases levels of harmful chemicals called reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the prostate gland that play a role in the development of prostate cancer.
Date: November 13, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have discovered for the first time a specific biochemical pathway by which the sex hormone, androgen, increases levels of harmful chemicals called reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the prostate gland that play a role in the development of prostate cancer.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Cell Transplants Restore Vision in Mice: Breakthrough used 'precursor' cells destined to work in the retina
Source: HealthDay News
Date: November 8, 2006
Summary:
Scientists report they have restored the vision of blind mice by introducing cells the eye uses to sense light, called photoreceptor precursor cells", into the rodents' retinas. The breakthrough could lead to transplants that might someday restore the vision of people who who have conditions caused by a loss of these photoreceptors, such as diabetes or age-related macular degeneration.
Date: November 8, 2006
Summary:
Scientists report they have restored the vision of blind mice by introducing cells the eye uses to sense light, called photoreceptor precursor cells", into the rodents' retinas. The breakthrough could lead to transplants that might someday restore the vision of people who who have conditions caused by a loss of these photoreceptors, such as diabetes or age-related macular degeneration.
Stem cell cure hope for diabetes
Source: BBC NEWS
Posted: 2006/11/12 00:20:17 GMT
Summary:
Scientists have used stem cells from human bone marrow to repair defective insulin-producing pancreatic cells responsible for diabetes in mice. The treatment also halted damaging changes taking place in the glomeruli, the bulb-like structures in the kidneys that filter the blood.caused by the condition.
Commentary: If this finding can be replicated safely and successfully, it might eventually lead to effective treatments for diabetes in humans.
Posted: 2006/11/12 00:20:17 GMT
Summary:
Scientists have used stem cells from human bone marrow to repair defective insulin-producing pancreatic cells responsible for diabetes in mice. The treatment also halted damaging changes taking place in the glomeruli, the bulb-like structures in the kidneys that filter the blood.caused by the condition.
Commentary: If this finding can be replicated safely and successfully, it might eventually lead to effective treatments for diabetes in humans.
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Human stem cells stimulate insulin in diabetic mice
Source: Reuters
Posted: November 9, 2006 9:22am ET
Summary:
Transplantation of human stromal cells into diabetic mice stimulated native mouse beta cells to produce insulin, researchers report in the latest issue of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The researchers say it is possible that multipotent stromal cell infusions may correct the metabolic disorders and heal some of the damage caused by diabetes in diabetic patients in the future.
Posted: November 9, 2006 9:22am ET
Summary:
Transplantation of human stromal cells into diabetic mice stimulated native mouse beta cells to produce insulin, researchers report in the latest issue of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The researchers say it is possible that multipotent stromal cell infusions may correct the metabolic disorders and heal some of the damage caused by diabetes in diabetic patients in the future.
How To Grow Muscle Cells In A Dish
Source: Journal of Clinical Investigation
Date: November 11, 2006
Summary:
In a new study, researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School demonstrated that Smooth muscle cells can be generated from multipotent adult progenitor cells (MAPCs) isolated from the bone marrow of rats, mice, pigs, and humans. This study therefore identifies a model system for studying the effects of potential therapeutics on SMC development and SMCs. It also describes a potential source of SMCs for engineering tissues.
Date: November 11, 2006
Summary:
In a new study, researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School demonstrated that Smooth muscle cells can be generated from multipotent adult progenitor cells (MAPCs) isolated from the bone marrow of rats, mice, pigs, and humans. This study therefore identifies a model system for studying the effects of potential therapeutics on SMC development and SMCs. It also describes a potential source of SMCs for engineering tissues.
Friday, November 10, 2006
In Stem-Cell Transplants, Timing Is Everything
Source: National Public Radio
Date: November 10, 2006
Summary:
National Public radio reports on the recent discovery that mice with a condition similar to macular degeneration in humans had their sight restored with an injection of retinal stem cells.
Date: November 10, 2006
Summary:
National Public radio reports on the recent discovery that mice with a condition similar to macular degeneration in humans had their sight restored with an injection of retinal stem cells.
Cord stem cells turned into lung cells
Source: United Press International
Date: November 10, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Minnesota report that Umbilical cord blood stem cells have been altered into lung cells, which could enable the development of treatments for several lung diseases.
Commentary: Hopefully further research will produce effective treatments for lung diseases in humans.
Date: November 10, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Minnesota report that Umbilical cord blood stem cells have been altered into lung cells, which could enable the development of treatments for several lung diseases.
Commentary: Hopefully further research will produce effective treatments for lung diseases in humans.
In Young Rats, Researchers Find a Reaction to Spinal Cord Injury That Speeds Recovery
Source: Georgetown University Medical Center
Date: November 10, 2006
Summary:
Neuroscientists had long believed that the only way to repair a spinal cord injury was to grow new neural connections, but researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center have found that, especially in young rats, powerful cells near the injury site also work overtime to restrict nerve damage and restore movement and sensation. They say that now that they know such a mechanism exists, it may be possible one day to “switch” these cells on therapeutically and possibly help humans function better following serious spinal cord injuries. These new findings might also be relevant to multiple sclerosis, a disease caused by loss of an axon’s protective myelin sheath.
Date: November 10, 2006
Summary:
Neuroscientists had long believed that the only way to repair a spinal cord injury was to grow new neural connections, but researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center have found that, especially in young rats, powerful cells near the injury site also work overtime to restrict nerve damage and restore movement and sensation. They say that now that they know such a mechanism exists, it may be possible one day to “switch” these cells on therapeutically and possibly help humans function better following serious spinal cord injuries. These new findings might also be relevant to multiple sclerosis, a disease caused by loss of an axon’s protective myelin sheath.
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Heart attack patients to have stem cell treatment
Source: Pharmaceutical Business Review
Posted: November 9, 2006, 6:01 PM EST
Summary:
Heart attack patients are to have their own stem cells injected into their hearts within hours of a heart attack to see if the stem cells can limit damage that often leads to heart failure, in a pioneering trial to be held in the UK. A stem cell sample will be taken from the patient's bone marrow then the patient will receive the prepared cells into the blocked artery, to further limit the damage caused by the heart attack.
Posted: November 9, 2006, 6:01 PM EST
Summary:
Heart attack patients are to have their own stem cells injected into their hearts within hours of a heart attack to see if the stem cells can limit damage that often leads to heart failure, in a pioneering trial to be held in the UK. A stem cell sample will be taken from the patient's bone marrow then the patient will receive the prepared cells into the blocked artery, to further limit the damage caused by the heart attack.
Stem Cells May Lead to Cancer Vaccine: Tests on Mice Suggest Vaccine for Lung Cancer Might Be Possible, but Long Way Off
Source: WebMD
Posted: November 9, 2006
Summary:
Early lab tests on mice conducted by researchers at the Universty of Louisville have shown that embryonic stem cells could potentially be used to create a cancer vaccine. The embryonic stem cells were taken from mouse embryos to make two experimental vaccines against mouse lung cancer. One of the vaccines contained only embryonic stem cells. The other vaccine contained embryonic stem cells plus a growth factor to boost immune response. This strategy might eventually be able to innoculate humans who have a high risk for development of cancer.
Posted: November 9, 2006
Summary:
Early lab tests on mice conducted by researchers at the Universty of Louisville have shown that embryonic stem cells could potentially be used to create a cancer vaccine. The embryonic stem cells were taken from mouse embryos to make two experimental vaccines against mouse lung cancer. One of the vaccines contained only embryonic stem cells. The other vaccine contained embryonic stem cells plus a growth factor to boost immune response. This strategy might eventually be able to innoculate humans who have a high risk for development of cancer.
Growth of spinal nerves is improved: Could play a role in spinal cord repair
Source: Harvard University
Date: November 9, 2006
Summary:
Nerves that control the highest level of voluntary movements have been isolated and secrets of their growth revealed for the first time. The discovery has researchers talking about new ways to treat ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease, and other paralyzing disorders, as well as regenerating spinal nerves that have been damaged by falls, crashes, and combat.
Date: November 9, 2006
Summary:
Nerves that control the highest level of voluntary movements have been isolated and secrets of their growth revealed for the first time. The discovery has researchers talking about new ways to treat ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease, and other paralyzing disorders, as well as regenerating spinal nerves that have been damaged by falls, crashes, and combat.
Blind mice treated with stem cells regain sight: Scientists have taken big step towards helping humans
Source: The Times
Posted: November 9, 2006
Summary:
British scientists have enabledmake blind mice see by transplanting retinal cells into mice that were blind as a result of a genetic defect, the effects of which are very similar to the human disease retinitis pigmentosa. The breakthrough that could open the way to treating millions of people who lose their sight.
Posted: November 9, 2006
Summary:
British scientists have enabledmake blind mice see by transplanting retinal cells into mice that were blind as a result of a genetic defect, the effects of which are very similar to the human disease retinitis pigmentosa. The breakthrough that could open the way to treating millions of people who lose their sight.
Cell Transplants Restore Sight in Blind Mice
Source: Washington Post
Posted: November 9, 2006
Summary:
Scientists reported that blind mice regained some ability to see after getting transplants of cells taken from the eyes of other mice, strengthening the prospect that it may someday be possible to restore vision in some people who have lost most or all of their eyesight. They said the new study showed for the first time that light-detecting retina cells -- which in this case were taken from other animals but which scientists have begun to grow from human embryonic stem cells -- can orient themselves properly after being injected into a blind eye, connect to other nerve cells and communicate appropriately with visual centers in the brain.
Commentary: if further studies in animals are successful and the results can be safely and successfully replicated in humans, this discovery might eventually lead to treatments for eye diseases and disorders.
Posted: November 9, 2006
Summary:
Scientists reported that blind mice regained some ability to see after getting transplants of cells taken from the eyes of other mice, strengthening the prospect that it may someday be possible to restore vision in some people who have lost most or all of their eyesight. They said the new study showed for the first time that light-detecting retina cells -- which in this case were taken from other animals but which scientists have begun to grow from human embryonic stem cells -- can orient themselves properly after being injected into a blind eye, connect to other nerve cells and communicate appropriately with visual centers in the brain.
Commentary: if further studies in animals are successful and the results can be safely and successfully replicated in humans, this discovery might eventually lead to treatments for eye diseases and disorders.
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Cells implanted in mice light path for restoring vision
Source: New York Times News Service
Posted: November 8, 2006 11:14 PM CST
Summary:
British researchers announced that they have restored vision in mice by implanting light-sensing cells that provide night vision, known as "rods," from a healthy mouse into blind ones. The procedure is a groundbreaking experiment that might eventually be able to restore sight to people with visual impairments. The researchers also believe a similar method could also be used to replace the cells that provide daytime color vision.
Posted: November 8, 2006 11:14 PM CST
Summary:
British researchers announced that they have restored vision in mice by implanting light-sensing cells that provide night vision, known as "rods," from a healthy mouse into blind ones. The procedure is a groundbreaking experiment that might eventually be able to restore sight to people with visual impairments. The researchers also believe a similar method could also be used to replace the cells that provide daytime color vision.
Treating Heart Attack Patients With Their Own Stem Cells
Source: Medical News Today
Posted: 08 Nov 2006 - 10:00am (PST)
Summary:
British scientists are conducting a trial to determine whether a heart attack patient's own bone marrow stem cells can be injected back into him/her to repair the damaged heart muscle. The stem cells would be injected into the patient within five hours of the heart attack. Researchers believe the experiment will avoid ethical controversy commonly associated with embryonic stem cell research and the chances of immune rejection will be minimized since the patient's own cells will be used in the trial.
Commentary: Successful results from this trial could lead to further human trials of this procedure and possibly an eventual stem cell treatment for heart attack.
Posted: 08 Nov 2006 - 10:00am (PST)
Summary:
British scientists are conducting a trial to determine whether a heart attack patient's own bone marrow stem cells can be injected back into him/her to repair the damaged heart muscle. The stem cells would be injected into the patient within five hours of the heart attack. Researchers believe the experiment will avoid ethical controversy commonly associated with embryonic stem cell research and the chances of immune rejection will be minimized since the patient's own cells will be used in the trial.
Commentary: Successful results from this trial could lead to further human trials of this procedure and possibly an eventual stem cell treatment for heart attack.
'Stunning' breakthrough in search for blindness cure
Source: Manchester Evening News - Manchester, UK
Posted: November 8, 2006
Summary:
British researchers restored sight to blind mice by implanting immature "precursor" cells into their eyes. The cells then developed into fully functioning, cells specialized to sense or receive light called photoreceptors. The researchers are calling the study a "stunning" breakthrough that could lead to the same result in humans.
Posted: November 8, 2006
Summary:
British researchers restored sight to blind mice by implanting immature "precursor" cells into their eyes. The cells then developed into fully functioning, cells specialized to sense or receive light called photoreceptors. The researchers are calling the study a "stunning" breakthrough that could lead to the same result in humans.
Blind mice could help humans regain sight
Source: The Times
Posted: November 08, 2006
Summary:
British scientists have enabled blind mice to see, successfully transplanted retinal cells into mice that were blind as a result of a genetic defect, the effects of which are very similar to the human disease retinitis pigmentosa. The treated mice regained some vision, and scientists showed that the transplanted cells integrated into the retina and formed new photoreceptors, the cells that are sensitive to light. The finding could lead to treatments for millions of people who lose their sight.
Posted: November 08, 2006
Summary:
British scientists have enabled blind mice to see, successfully transplanted retinal cells into mice that were blind as a result of a genetic defect, the effects of which are very similar to the human disease retinitis pigmentosa. The treated mice regained some vision, and scientists showed that the transplanted cells integrated into the retina and formed new photoreceptors, the cells that are sensitive to light. The finding could lead to treatments for millions of people who lose their sight.
Transplanted photoreceptor precursor cells restore visual function in mice with retinal degeneration: U-M & London team says technique has implication
Source: University of Michigan Health System
Date: November 8, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have successfully transplanted light-sensing cells called photoreceptors directly into the eyes of mice and restored their visual function. The achievement is based on a new technology in which the cells are introduced at a particular stage in their development. The team of scientists found that transplanted photoreceptor precursor cells survived and became integrated into the mouse retina--and that the technique succeeded because the cells were isolated when they had reached a certain level of maturity. The technology represents a breakthrough in transplantation-based therapies for neuro-degenerative diseases. It suggests that scientists may need to introduce changes in stem cells in order for them to become highly specialized neurons.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will provide scientists with a basis to eventually develop specialize neurons to treat eye diseases and disorders as well as other neurological disorders and conditions.
Date: November 8, 2006
Summary:
Scientists have successfully transplanted light-sensing cells called photoreceptors directly into the eyes of mice and restored their visual function. The achievement is based on a new technology in which the cells are introduced at a particular stage in their development. The team of scientists found that transplanted photoreceptor precursor cells survived and became integrated into the mouse retina--and that the technique succeeded because the cells were isolated when they had reached a certain level of maturity. The technology represents a breakthrough in transplantation-based therapies for neuro-degenerative diseases. It suggests that scientists may need to introduce changes in stem cells in order for them to become highly specialized neurons.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will provide scientists with a basis to eventually develop specialize neurons to treat eye diseases and disorders as well as other neurological disorders and conditions.
Retinal Transplant Restores Vision in Mice: Transplanting stem cells into retinas replaces light-sensitive photoreceptors that have been lost to eye d
Source: MIT Technology Review
Posted: November 08, 2006
Summary:
British scientists have successfully transplanted the first retinal cells into the eyes of mice, marking the first time that vision has been restored by transplanting light-sensitive photoreceptor cells. Previous efforts to do this have failed. According to the experiment's lead scientist, using stem cells that had stopped dividing and were beginning to actually turn into photoreceptors just before transplanting them into the host enabled the transplant to succeed. Other scientists are heralding the the experiment a signifcant advance toward eventually treating humans with visual diseases and impairments. However, some scientists caution that photoreceptor cells must be replaced in order to potentially treat people with these conditions.
Commentary: This advance could enable to further experiments transplanting light-sensitive photoreceptor cells in larger animals, which could eventually lead to experiments in humans.
Posted: November 08, 2006
Summary:
British scientists have successfully transplanted the first retinal cells into the eyes of mice, marking the first time that vision has been restored by transplanting light-sensitive photoreceptor cells. Previous efforts to do this have failed. According to the experiment's lead scientist, using stem cells that had stopped dividing and were beginning to actually turn into photoreceptors just before transplanting them into the host enabled the transplant to succeed. Other scientists are heralding the the experiment a signifcant advance toward eventually treating humans with visual diseases and impairments. However, some scientists caution that photoreceptor cells must be replaced in order to potentially treat people with these conditions.
Commentary: This advance could enable to further experiments transplanting light-sensitive photoreceptor cells in larger animals, which could eventually lead to experiments in humans.
Blindness cure breakthrough
Source: Press Association
Posted: November 8, 2006
Summary:
Scientists are contemplating the real possibility of curing blindness after demonstrating that destroyed retinas can be rebuilt. In a breakthrough described by one expert as "stunning", British researchers restored sight to blind mice. Although much more work needs to be done, they believe the same goal could one day be achieved in human patients.
Commentary: It will be important for these results to be safely and effectively replicated and in a large and diverse patient population monitored over a long period of time.
Posted: November 8, 2006
Summary:
Scientists are contemplating the real possibility of curing blindness after demonstrating that destroyed retinas can be rebuilt. In a breakthrough described by one expert as "stunning", British researchers restored sight to blind mice. Although much more work needs to be done, they believe the same goal could one day be achieved in human patients.
Commentary: It will be important for these results to be safely and effectively replicated and in a large and diverse patient population monitored over a long period of time.
Blind mice see again after cell transplants: Research could lead to new treatments of human eye diseases
Source: Reuters
Posted: 6:51 a.m. AKT Nov 8, 2006
Summary:
British and American scientists have restored vision in blind mice by transplanting light-sensitive cells into their eyes in a breakthrough that could lead to new treatments of human eye diseases. But instead of using stem cells, which could form into any cell type, the scientists transplanted cells that had reached a later stage of development towards becoming photoreceptor cells.
Posted: 6:51 a.m. AKT Nov 8, 2006
Summary:
British and American scientists have restored vision in blind mice by transplanting light-sensitive cells into their eyes in a breakthrough that could lead to new treatments of human eye diseases. But instead of using stem cells, which could form into any cell type, the scientists transplanted cells that had reached a later stage of development towards becoming photoreceptor cells.
Retinal transplants may help restore sight
Source: United Press International
Date: November 8, 2006
Summary:
British scientists have discovered non-dividing retinal cells implanted into adult mouse retina can generate new photoreceptors. The results, say the researchers, suggest precursor cells grown from human adult or embryonic stem cells might also serve to restore sight, and challenge the assumption that stem cells offer the best prospect for tissue repair.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will eventually lead to stem cell treatments for eye diseases and disorders in humans that avoid the ethical controversy that has been associated with embryonic stem cells.
Date: November 8, 2006
Summary:
British scientists have discovered non-dividing retinal cells implanted into adult mouse retina can generate new photoreceptors. The results, say the researchers, suggest precursor cells grown from human adult or embryonic stem cells might also serve to restore sight, and challenge the assumption that stem cells offer the best prospect for tissue repair.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will eventually lead to stem cell treatments for eye diseases and disorders in humans that avoid the ethical controversy that has been associated with embryonic stem cells.
Insulin Stem Cells Hold Hope for Diabetes Treatment: In study with mice, they also repaired damage to kidneys
Source: HealthDay News
Date: November 7, 2006
Summary:
Stem cells might one day pack a one-two punch when it comes to treating people with diabetes. In a new study conducted with diabetic mice, human stem cells not only repaired insulin-producing cells in the rodents, they also fixed cells in damaged kidneys.
Date: November 7, 2006
Summary:
Stem cells might one day pack a one-two punch when it comes to treating people with diabetes. In a new study conducted with diabetic mice, human stem cells not only repaired insulin-producing cells in the rodents, they also fixed cells in damaged kidneys.
Stem cells help mice make insulin
Source: Bloomberg News
Posted: November 7, 2006
Summary:
Stem cells from adult human bone helped mice with diabetes make insulin, suggesting new treatments for the disease.
Commentary: It will be important to make sure these results can be successfully replicated in humans with diabetes and that the patients be monitored over a prolonged period of time in order to ensure that any treatments are both safe and effective.
Posted: November 7, 2006
Summary:
Stem cells from adult human bone helped mice with diabetes make insulin, suggesting new treatments for the disease.
Commentary: It will be important to make sure these results can be successfully replicated in humans with diabetes and that the patients be monitored over a prolonged period of time in order to ensure that any treatments are both safe and effective.
Adult Stem Cells May Treat Diabetes: In Lab Tests, Human Adult Stem Cells Increased Insulin in Mice With High Blood Sugar
Source: WebMD Medical News
Posted: November 8, 2006
Summary;
Studies on diabetic mice revealed that adult stem cells from human bone marrow may help treat type 2 diabetes. The researchers studied male mice with high blood sugar like that in type 2 diabetes. Half the mice received two injections of adult stem cells taken from human bone marrow. With their defective immune systems, the mice didn't reject the human cells.
For comparison, the other mice didn't get any injections. Over the next month or so, mice treated with stem cells made more insulin, a hormone that controls blood sugar. Stem cells turned up in the mice's pancreas, which makes insulin. The stem-cell treated mice also had less kidney damage than mice in the comparison group, the study shows. Diabetes can also cause kidney damage. Stem cells showed up in the mice's kidneys as well; the injected cells may have helped repair damage, the researchers say. From these results, researchers believe that stem cells could increase insulin production and repair or regenerate damaged or destroyed tissue in people with diabetes.
Commentary: If this fiding can be successfully replicated in a large and heterogenous patient population, it could lead to an effective treatment for adult-onset-or type 2-diabetes.
Posted: November 8, 2006
Summary;
Studies on diabetic mice revealed that adult stem cells from human bone marrow may help treat type 2 diabetes. The researchers studied male mice with high blood sugar like that in type 2 diabetes. Half the mice received two injections of adult stem cells taken from human bone marrow. With their defective immune systems, the mice didn't reject the human cells.
For comparison, the other mice didn't get any injections. Over the next month or so, mice treated with stem cells made more insulin, a hormone that controls blood sugar. Stem cells turned up in the mice's pancreas, which makes insulin. The stem-cell treated mice also had less kidney damage than mice in the comparison group, the study shows. Diabetes can also cause kidney damage. Stem cells showed up in the mice's kidneys as well; the injected cells may have helped repair damage, the researchers say. From these results, researchers believe that stem cells could increase insulin production and repair or regenerate damaged or destroyed tissue in people with diabetes.
Commentary: If this fiding can be successfully replicated in a large and heterogenous patient population, it could lead to an effective treatment for adult-onset-or type 2-diabetes.
Blind Mice See Again After Retinal Stem Cell Transplant
Source: Medical News Today
Posted: November 8, 2006 - 11:00am (PST)
Summary:
British scientists reported that blind mice regained their vision by observing that their pupils contracted when exposed to light after undergoing retinal stem cell transplants. The researchers believe this study could eventually lead to sight restoration for humans blinded by diabetes or age-related macular degeneration.
Posted: November 8, 2006 - 11:00am (PST)
Summary:
British scientists reported that blind mice regained their vision by observing that their pupils contracted when exposed to light after undergoing retinal stem cell transplants. The researchers believe this study could eventually lead to sight restoration for humans blinded by diabetes or age-related macular degeneration.
Researchers Map Protein Network that Regulates "Stemness"
Source: Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Date: November 8, 2006
Summary:
Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) researchers have developed a map that charts the largely unexplored proteins that regulate a stem cell's ability to differentiate into multiple types of mature cells. Researchers believe that Understanding this protein network in greater detail could help stem cell biologists to coax mature cells to revert to an embryonic state. Reprogramming adult cells in this way could provide an alternative source of stem cells to use in regenerating tissues damaged by disease or trauma, instead of using embryonic cells.
Date: November 8, 2006
Summary:
Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) researchers have developed a map that charts the largely unexplored proteins that regulate a stem cell's ability to differentiate into multiple types of mature cells. Researchers believe that Understanding this protein network in greater detail could help stem cell biologists to coax mature cells to revert to an embryonic state. Reprogramming adult cells in this way could provide an alternative source of stem cells to use in regenerating tissues damaged by disease or trauma, instead of using embryonic cells.
Retina Stem Cells May Restore Sight: Stem Cells Harvested in Later Stage of Development Restored Vision in Mice
Source: WebMD
Posted: November 8, 2006
Summary:
In a new study, retina stem cells harvested at a particular stage of development successfully restored visual function in mice affected by a common cause of blindness also found in humans, known as photoreceptor loss.
Posted: November 8, 2006
Summary:
In a new study, retina stem cells harvested at a particular stage of development successfully restored visual function in mice affected by a common cause of blindness also found in humans, known as photoreceptor loss.
Cell transplant may restore lost sight
Source: NewScientist.com news service
Posted: 08 November 2006
Summary:
British researchers have restored sight in blind mice by transplanting precursor retinal cells into their damaged eyes. When transplanted into the eyes of blind mice, the retinal precursor cells differentiated into rod cells and grew to make the short neural connections required to restore sight. The new procedure could eventually lead to a cure for age-related macular degeneration or blindness due to diabetes.
Commentary: Hopefully this research will be successfully replicated in humans and eventually lead to effective treatment for blindness and eye diseases.
Posted: 08 November 2006
Summary:
British researchers have restored sight in blind mice by transplanting precursor retinal cells into their damaged eyes. When transplanted into the eyes of blind mice, the retinal precursor cells differentiated into rod cells and grew to make the short neural connections required to restore sight. The new procedure could eventually lead to a cure for age-related macular degeneration or blindness due to diabetes.
Commentary: Hopefully this research will be successfully replicated in humans and eventually lead to effective treatment for blindness and eye diseases.
Vaccination with embryonic stem cells prevents lung cancer in mice
Source: European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer
Date: November 8, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have discovered that vaccinating mice with embryonic stem cells prevented lung cancer in those animals that had had cancer cells transplanted into them after the vaccination or that had been exposed to cancer-causing chemicals. The findings suggest that it could be possible to develop embryonic stem cell vaccines that prevent cancers in humans, such as hereditary breast and colon cancer and lung cancer caused by smoking or other environmental factors.
Commentary: Maybe further studies in larger animals will enable human studies using embryonic stem cells. However, it will be important for any results in humans to be replicated in a large and heterogenous patient population to ensure that treatments are both safe and effective.
Date: November 8, 2006
Summary:
Researchers have discovered that vaccinating mice with embryonic stem cells prevented lung cancer in those animals that had had cancer cells transplanted into them after the vaccination or that had been exposed to cancer-causing chemicals. The findings suggest that it could be possible to develop embryonic stem cell vaccines that prevent cancers in humans, such as hereditary breast and colon cancer and lung cancer caused by smoking or other environmental factors.
Commentary: Maybe further studies in larger animals will enable human studies using embryonic stem cells. However, it will be important for any results in humans to be replicated in a large and heterogenous patient population to ensure that treatments are both safe and effective.
New stem cell trial for heart attack patients
Source: Reuters
Posted: November 8, 2006 10:50 AM GMT
Summary:
British doctors announced plans to inject stem cells into heart attack patients in an experimental treatment aimed at preventing heart failure and deaths. The study will combine the normal treatment for a heart attack, along with the stem cell therapy. The scientists believe that if the therapy is delivered hours after an attack it can stop the damage to the heart. The doctors will monitor the patients to see if patients for six months after the procedure to see if they have an improved quality of life.
Commentary: If these trials are successful, the results could be a significant advance toward the development of an effective and widely used stem cell treatment for heart disease and heart attack patients.
Posted: November 8, 2006 10:50 AM GMT
Summary:
British doctors announced plans to inject stem cells into heart attack patients in an experimental treatment aimed at preventing heart failure and deaths. The study will combine the normal treatment for a heart attack, along with the stem cell therapy. The scientists believe that if the therapy is delivered hours after an attack it can stop the damage to the heart. The doctors will monitor the patients to see if patients for six months after the procedure to see if they have an improved quality of life.
Commentary: If these trials are successful, the results could be a significant advance toward the development of an effective and widely used stem cell treatment for heart disease and heart attack patients.
Cell transplants 'restore sight'
Source: BBC NEWS
Posted: 8 November 2006, 16:48 GMT
Summary:
Cell transplants have successfully restored vision to mice which had lost their sight, leading to hopes people could benefit in the same way. UK scientists treated animals which had eye damage similar to that seen in many human eye diseases. They were able to help them see again by transplanting immature retinal stem cells into their eyes. UK experts are heralding the study, published in the magazine Nature, saying it was "stunning" research. If the results can be translated into a treatment for human eye disease, it could help the millions of people with conditions ranging from age-related macular degeneration to diabetes.
Commentary: It will important for this study to be successfullyreplicated many times in a diverse patient population, and for patients to be closely monitored over an extended period of time in order to determine the effectiveness of this potential new treatment.
Posted: 8 November 2006, 16:48 GMT
Summary:
Cell transplants have successfully restored vision to mice which had lost their sight, leading to hopes people could benefit in the same way. UK scientists treated animals which had eye damage similar to that seen in many human eye diseases. They were able to help them see again by transplanting immature retinal stem cells into their eyes. UK experts are heralding the study, published in the magazine Nature, saying it was "stunning" research. If the results can be translated into a treatment for human eye disease, it could help the millions of people with conditions ranging from age-related macular degeneration to diabetes.
Commentary: It will important for this study to be successfullyreplicated many times in a diverse patient population, and for patients to be closely monitored over an extended period of time in order to determine the effectiveness of this potential new treatment.
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Stem cell cure for heart attacks
Source: Daily Mail
Posted: 7 November 2006
Summary:
Emergency heart attack patients will be injected with their own bone marrow stem cells in a dramatic new treatment. The procedure, being pioneered by British doctors, holds out hope of a 'cure' as the stem cells repair damaged heart muscles. It is intended to stop patients suffering further attacks and developing heart failure, something existing treatments fail to do in many cases, and could be given within a few hours of a heart attack.
Commentary: If this trial yields successful results, maybe wider trials with larger and more diverse patient populations can be conducted and hopefully will continue to be successful.
Posted: 7 November 2006
Summary:
Emergency heart attack patients will be injected with their own bone marrow stem cells in a dramatic new treatment. The procedure, being pioneered by British doctors, holds out hope of a 'cure' as the stem cells repair damaged heart muscles. It is intended to stop patients suffering further attacks and developing heart failure, something existing treatments fail to do in many cases, and could be given within a few hours of a heart attack.
Commentary: If this trial yields successful results, maybe wider trials with larger and more diverse patient populations can be conducted and hopefully will continue to be successful.
Researchers develop vaccine that prevents lung cancer in mice
Source: University of Louisville
Posted: November 7, 2006
Summary:
A team of researchers at the James Graham Brown Cancer Center has discovered that vaccinating mice with embryonic stem cells can prevent lung cancer. Their findings suggest that it could be possible to develop embryonic stem cell vaccines that prevent cancers in humans at high risk of developing cancer.
Posted: November 7, 2006
Summary:
A team of researchers at the James Graham Brown Cancer Center has discovered that vaccinating mice with embryonic stem cells can prevent lung cancer. Their findings suggest that it could be possible to develop embryonic stem cell vaccines that prevent cancers in humans at high risk of developing cancer.
Natural Compounds Block Autoimmune Response In Diabetes, Arthritis
Source: University of California - Irvine
Date: November 7, 2006
Summary:
Natural compounds derived from a sea anemone extract and a shrub plant have been found to block the autoimmune disease response in type-1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, according to University of California, Irvine researchers. The study shows both in human and animal tests how these compounds work to deter the effect of autoimmune T-cells, white blood cells that attack the body. The goal, according to UCI researchers, is to develop new treatments from these compounds that will target these destructive T-cells while allowing other white blood cells to fight disease and infection.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will have applications in human regenerative medicine, as stem cells could supplement new treatments that could be developed from these compounds and regenerate destroyed cells after the compound has stopped the process that destroys the cells.
Date: November 7, 2006
Summary:
Natural compounds derived from a sea anemone extract and a shrub plant have been found to block the autoimmune disease response in type-1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, according to University of California, Irvine researchers. The study shows both in human and animal tests how these compounds work to deter the effect of autoimmune T-cells, white blood cells that attack the body. The goal, according to UCI researchers, is to develop new treatments from these compounds that will target these destructive T-cells while allowing other white blood cells to fight disease and infection.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will have applications in human regenerative medicine, as stem cells could supplement new treatments that could be developed from these compounds and regenerate destroyed cells after the compound has stopped the process that destroys the cells.
Monday, November 06, 2006
Plan to create human-cow embryos
Source: BBC News
Posted: 6 November 2006 22:45:03 GMT
Summary:
Researchers from Newcastle University and Kings College, London have applied for permission to create embryos by fusing human DNA with cow eggs. Scientists want to use cows' eggs as a substitute because human eggs for research are in short supply and to obtain them women have to undergo surgery. The hybrid human-bovine embryos would be used for stem cell research and would not be allowed to develop for more than a few days. But critics say it is unethical and potentially dangerous.
Commentary: If this procedure is proved effecive, it could dramatically increase the number of embryos available for stem cell research. However, the procedure could pose health risks such as cell rejection by the human immune system. There for this experiment should be scrutinized and reviewed very carefully to minimize any health risks to both egg donors and patients receiving transplants of the cells extracted from the cow embryos.
Posted: 6 November 2006 22:45:03 GMT
Summary:
Researchers from Newcastle University and Kings College, London have applied for permission to create embryos by fusing human DNA with cow eggs. Scientists want to use cows' eggs as a substitute because human eggs for research are in short supply and to obtain them women have to undergo surgery. The hybrid human-bovine embryos would be used for stem cell research and would not be allowed to develop for more than a few days. But critics say it is unethical and potentially dangerous.
Commentary: If this procedure is proved effecive, it could dramatically increase the number of embryos available for stem cell research. However, the procedure could pose health risks such as cell rejection by the human immune system. There for this experiment should be scrutinized and reviewed very carefully to minimize any health risks to both egg donors and patients receiving transplants of the cells extracted from the cow embryos.
Stem Cells Engage In Dialogue With The Cells That Regulate Their Futures
Source: University of Washington
Date: November 6, 2006
Summary:
Dialogue, not a monologue, is the basis of all good communication. Stem cells are no exception. Recent University of Washington (UW) research has found an early indication of two-way cellular communication. This two-way cell-to-cell signaling occurs in the miniscule niches of the body where the futures of stem cells are determined. Stem cells require these niches - nest-like microenvironments made up of regulatory cells -- in order to self-renew. Stem cells can divide and turn into many types of new cells. The niches help regulate the amount and kinds of new cells produced to meet current demands.
Commentary: Maybe this new understanding of the process of cellular renewal will provide researchers with new strategies and applications to use stem cells to treat diseases, injuries and medical coditions.
Date: November 6, 2006
Summary:
Dialogue, not a monologue, is the basis of all good communication. Stem cells are no exception. Recent University of Washington (UW) research has found an early indication of two-way cellular communication. This two-way cell-to-cell signaling occurs in the miniscule niches of the body where the futures of stem cells are determined. Stem cells require these niches - nest-like microenvironments made up of regulatory cells -- in order to self-renew. Stem cells can divide and turn into many types of new cells. The niches help regulate the amount and kinds of new cells produced to meet current demands.
Commentary: Maybe this new understanding of the process of cellular renewal will provide researchers with new strategies and applications to use stem cells to treat diseases, injuries and medical coditions.
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Scientists Identify Synthetic Compound That Keeps Stem Cells Young
Source: Scripps Research Institute
Date: November 5, 2006
Summary:
A team of scientists from the Scripps Research Institute, the Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation and the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine has discovered a new synthetic compound that can support growth and self-renewal of mouse embryonic stem cells, offering a simple alternative to current growth conditions that may vary batch-to-batch and confuse experimental results. The findings, reported in this week's Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, should accelerate stem cell research and offer new insights into cell biology that could aid in the development of treatments for diseases such as cancer and Parkinson's.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will hasten the development of effective stem cell treatments for diseases, injuries and other medical conditions.
Date: November 5, 2006
Summary:
A team of scientists from the Scripps Research Institute, the Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation and the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine has discovered a new synthetic compound that can support growth and self-renewal of mouse embryonic stem cells, offering a simple alternative to current growth conditions that may vary batch-to-batch and confuse experimental results. The findings, reported in this week's Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, should accelerate stem cell research and offer new insights into cell biology that could aid in the development of treatments for diseases such as cancer and Parkinson's.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will hasten the development of effective stem cell treatments for diseases, injuries and other medical conditions.
How To Mend A Broken Heart: Zebrafish Hold Key To Regeneration
Source: Duke University Medical Center
Date: November 3, 2006
Summary:
When a portion of a zebrafish's heart is removed, the dynamic interplay between a mass of stem cells that forms in the wound and the protective cell layer that covers the wound spurs the regeneration of functional new heart tissue, Duke University Medical Center scientists have found. The scientists further discovered that key growth factors facilitate the interaction between the cell mass and the protective covering, encouraging the formation of new heart muscle.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will have clinical applications to regenerate human organs and tissues that have been damaged or destroyed by disease or injury.
Date: November 3, 2006
Summary:
When a portion of a zebrafish's heart is removed, the dynamic interplay between a mass of stem cells that forms in the wound and the protective cell layer that covers the wound spurs the regeneration of functional new heart tissue, Duke University Medical Center scientists have found. The scientists further discovered that key growth factors facilitate the interaction between the cell mass and the protective covering, encouraging the formation of new heart muscle.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will have clinical applications to regenerate human organs and tissues that have been damaged or destroyed by disease or injury.
Secret of Heart Regeneration Uncovered
Source: Scientific American
Posted: November 3, 2006
Summary:
Even humans can replace some damaged tissue in organs, such as the liver. But none can accomplish what the zebra fish, a common denizen of home aquariums, can do: regenerate their hearts. Biologists have long known about the zebra fish's cardiac ability, and now researchers think they have unlocked the secret of the process, which may provide essential clues for human heart repair.
Commentary: Maybe this finding can eventually lead to new methods for repairing damaged human heart muscle.
Posted: November 3, 2006
Summary:
Even humans can replace some damaged tissue in organs, such as the liver. But none can accomplish what the zebra fish, a common denizen of home aquariums, can do: regenerate their hearts. Biologists have long known about the zebra fish's cardiac ability, and now researchers think they have unlocked the secret of the process, which may provide essential clues for human heart repair.
Commentary: Maybe this finding can eventually lead to new methods for repairing damaged human heart muscle.
Stem Cell Fish Research Shows Heart Regeneration: Zebrafish re-grow damaged hearts, so perhaps humans could, too, experts say
Source: HealthDay News
Date: November 2, 2006
Summary:
New information about how the hearts of tiny zebrafish regenerate could help in developing new ways to treat heart damage in humans, say Duke University Medical Center scientists. They found that when a portion of a zebrafish's heart is removed, stem cells that form in the wound work with a protective cell layer that covers the wound to re-grow functional heart tissue. The Duke team also discovered that certain growth factors facilitate interactions between the stem cells and the protective cell layer.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will lead to further studies on using stem cells to regenerate heart tissue in other animals, and eventually pave the way for applications to treat heart disease in humans.
Date: November 2, 2006
Summary:
New information about how the hearts of tiny zebrafish regenerate could help in developing new ways to treat heart damage in humans, say Duke University Medical Center scientists. They found that when a portion of a zebrafish's heart is removed, stem cells that form in the wound work with a protective cell layer that covers the wound to re-grow functional heart tissue. The Duke team also discovered that certain growth factors facilitate interactions between the stem cells and the protective cell layer.
Commentary: Maybe this finding will lead to further studies on using stem cells to regenerate heart tissue in other animals, and eventually pave the way for applications to treat heart disease in humans.
Dopamine used to prompt nerve tissue to regrow
Source: Georgia Institute of Technology
Date: November 2, 2006
Summary:
When Yadong Wang, a chemist by training, first ventured into nerve regeneration two years ago, he didn't know that his peers would have considered him crazy. His idea was simple: Because neural circuits use electrical signals often conducted by neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) to communicate between the brain and the rest of the body, he could build neurotransmitters into the material used to repair a broken circuit. The neurotransmitters could coax the neurons in the damaged nerves to regrow and reconnect with their target organ.
Commentary: Maybe this new approach will eventually lead to effective treatments in humans not only for Parkinson's Disease, but also for other central nervous system and neurological conditions and disorders.
Date: November 2, 2006
Summary:
When Yadong Wang, a chemist by training, first ventured into nerve regeneration two years ago, he didn't know that his peers would have considered him crazy. His idea was simple: Because neural circuits use electrical signals often conducted by neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) to communicate between the brain and the rest of the body, he could build neurotransmitters into the material used to repair a broken circuit. The neurotransmitters could coax the neurons in the damaged nerves to regrow and reconnect with their target organ.
Commentary: Maybe this new approach will eventually lead to effective treatments in humans not only for Parkinson's Disease, but also for other central nervous system and neurological conditions and disorders.
U of MN researchers turn cord blood into lung cells: Discovery step toward developing treatment for various lung diseases
Source: University of Minnesota
Posted: November 1, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have, for the first time, coaxed umbilical cord blood stem cells to differentiate into a type of lung cell, called type II alveolar cells. Alveolar cells secrete surfactant, a substance which allows the air sacs in the lungs to remain open, allowing air to move in and out of the sacs. The cells also help to repair the airway after injury. The researchers will now work to better characterize the cells, so they could be used for future research in order to better understand lung development and disease. The cells may also be useful as a way to test potential new drugs.
Commentary: This is a signficant advance toward the clinical application of umbilical cord stem cells to treat lung diseases and injuries. Hopefully it can also be transformed into successful treatments for lung disease and a safe and effective method to testnew drugs.
Posted: November 1, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have, for the first time, coaxed umbilical cord blood stem cells to differentiate into a type of lung cell, called type II alveolar cells. Alveolar cells secrete surfactant, a substance which allows the air sacs in the lungs to remain open, allowing air to move in and out of the sacs. The cells also help to repair the airway after injury. The researchers will now work to better characterize the cells, so they could be used for future research in order to better understand lung development and disease. The cells may also be useful as a way to test potential new drugs.
Commentary: This is a signficant advance toward the clinical application of umbilical cord stem cells to treat lung diseases and injuries. Hopefully it can also be transformed into successful treatments for lung disease and a safe and effective method to testnew drugs.
Friday, November 03, 2006
British scientists eye breakthrough in lab-grown liver
Source: Agence France-Presse (AFP)
Posted: October 31, 2006
Summary:
Scientists at an English university have grown a miniature artificial human liver in a major medical breakthrough, British media reported. It is hoped mini-livers could be used to test drugs, reducing the need for animal experiments, help repair damaged livers and eventually produce entire organs for lifesaving transplants.
Commentary: In order for this new finding to be deemed safe for liver patients, transplants will need to be replicated safely in a large and genetically diverse patient population.
Posted: October 31, 2006
Summary:
Scientists at an English university have grown a miniature artificial human liver in a major medical breakthrough, British media reported. It is hoped mini-livers could be used to test drugs, reducing the need for animal experiments, help repair damaged livers and eventually produce entire organs for lifesaving transplants.
Commentary: In order for this new finding to be deemed safe for liver patients, transplants will need to be replicated safely in a large and genetically diverse patient population.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Cytotherapy Report Confirms BioE Stem Cell First Human Cord Blood Stem Cell to Differentiate into Lung Cell
Source: BioE Corporation
Posted: November 1, 2006
Summary:
BioE®, Inc., a biomedical company providing human umbilical cord blood stem cells as enabling, high-quality cellular tools for drug discovery and therapeutic research, announced a report published in the latest issue (Vol. 8, Issue 5) of the journal Cytotherapy confirms its Multi-Lineage Progenitor Cell™ (MLPC™) is the first human cord blood stem cell to differentiate into a type II alveolar lung cell, responsible for secreting surfactant, a material that helps stabilize the lung’s air sacs during respiration.
Commentary: Maybe this advance will lead to new stem cell treatments for lung and respiratory diseases.
Posted: November 1, 2006
Summary:
BioE®, Inc., a biomedical company providing human umbilical cord blood stem cells as enabling, high-quality cellular tools for drug discovery and therapeutic research, announced a report published in the latest issue (Vol. 8, Issue 5) of the journal Cytotherapy confirms its Multi-Lineage Progenitor Cell™ (MLPC™) is the first human cord blood stem cell to differentiate into a type II alveolar lung cell, responsible for secreting surfactant, a material that helps stabilize the lung’s air sacs during respiration.
Commentary: Maybe this advance will lead to new stem cell treatments for lung and respiratory diseases.
Cytotherapy Report Confirms BioE Stem Cell First Human Cord Blood Stem Cell to Differentiate into Lung Cell
Source: Pharmaceutical Business Review
Posted: November 2, 2006
Summary:
BioE has confirmed its Multi-Lineage Progenitor Cell is the first human cord blood stem cell to differentiate into a type of lung cell. The study showed that the stem cell could differentiate into a type II alveolar lung cell. This advance in adult stem cell research could someday lead to treatments for patients with lung diseases.
Posted: November 2, 2006
Summary:
BioE has confirmed its Multi-Lineage Progenitor Cell is the first human cord blood stem cell to differentiate into a type of lung cell. The study showed that the stem cell could differentiate into a type II alveolar lung cell. This advance in adult stem cell research could someday lead to treatments for patients with lung diseases.
Stem Cell Fish Research Shows Heart Regeneration: Zebrafish re-grow damaged hearts, so perhaps humans could, too, experts say
Source: HealthDay News
Date: November 2, 2006
Summary:
New information about how the hearts of tiny zebrafish regenerate could help in developing new ways to treat heart damage in humans, say Duke University Medical Center scientists. They found that when a portion of a zebrafish's heart is removed, stem cells that form in the wound work with a protective cell layer that covers the wound to re-grow functional heart tissue. The Duke team also discovered that certain growth factors facilitate interactions between the stem cells and the protective cell layer. The findings are published in the Nov. 3 issue of the journal Cell.
Date: November 2, 2006
Summary:
New information about how the hearts of tiny zebrafish regenerate could help in developing new ways to treat heart damage in humans, say Duke University Medical Center scientists. They found that when a portion of a zebrafish's heart is removed, stem cells that form in the wound work with a protective cell layer that covers the wound to re-grow functional heart tissue. The Duke team also discovered that certain growth factors facilitate interactions between the stem cells and the protective cell layer. The findings are published in the Nov. 3 issue of the journal Cell.
U Of MN Researchers Turn Cord Blood Into Lung Cells: Discovery step toward developing treatment for various lung diseases
Source: University of Minnesota
Posted: 02 November 2006 - 0:00am (PST)
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have, for the first time, coaxed umbilical cord blood stem cells to differentiate into a type of lung cell, called type II alveolar cells. Alveolar cells secrete surfactant, a substance which allows the air sacs in the lungs to remain open, allowing air to move in and out of the sacs. The cells also help to repair the airway after injury. The researchers will now work to better characterize the cells, so they could be used for future research in order to better understand lung development and disease. The cells may also be useful as a way to test potential new drugs.
Commentary: This is a signficant advance toward the clinical application of umbilical cord stem cells to treat lung diseases and injuries. Hopefully it can also be transformed into successful treatments for lung disease and a safe and effective method to testnew drugs.
Posted: 02 November 2006 - 0:00am (PST)
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have, for the first time, coaxed umbilical cord blood stem cells to differentiate into a type of lung cell, called type II alveolar cells. Alveolar cells secrete surfactant, a substance which allows the air sacs in the lungs to remain open, allowing air to move in and out of the sacs. The cells also help to repair the airway after injury. The researchers will now work to better characterize the cells, so they could be used for future research in order to better understand lung development and disease. The cells may also be useful as a way to test potential new drugs.
Commentary: This is a signficant advance toward the clinical application of umbilical cord stem cells to treat lung diseases and injuries. Hopefully it can also be transformed into successful treatments for lung disease and a safe and effective method to testnew drugs.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Analysis: Hearts recover with drugs/device
Source: United Press International
Posted: November 1, 2006
Summary:
British doctors reported Wednesday that the combination of a mechanical device and a cocktail of drugs reversed heart failure in a small group of patients supposedly suffering from "end-stage" disease. In the study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, Emma Birks and colleagues at Royal Brampton and Harefield National Health Service selected 27 patients with end-stage heart failure to undergo treatment with a mechanical, partially implanted device that assists the left ventricle -- the pumping chamber of the heart -- to improve its function. After nearly a year of pharmaceutical treatment, four of the 15 patients achieved a remodeling of their hearts sufficiently to allow doctors to remove the assist devices
Commentary: Maybe this device will be successful enough in a large patient population to eventually become a standard method of treatment for heart disease.
Posted: November 1, 2006
Summary:
British doctors reported Wednesday that the combination of a mechanical device and a cocktail of drugs reversed heart failure in a small group of patients supposedly suffering from "end-stage" disease. In the study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, Emma Birks and colleagues at Royal Brampton and Harefield National Health Service selected 27 patients with end-stage heart failure to undergo treatment with a mechanical, partially implanted device that assists the left ventricle -- the pumping chamber of the heart -- to improve its function. After nearly a year of pharmaceutical treatment, four of the 15 patients achieved a remodeling of their hearts sufficiently to allow doctors to remove the assist devices
Commentary: Maybe this device will be successful enough in a large patient population to eventually become a standard method of treatment for heart disease.
U of MN researchers turn cord blood into lung cells: Discovery step toward developing treatment for various lung diseases
Source: University of Minnesota
Posted: November 1, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have, for the first time, coaxed umbilical cord blood stem cells to differentiate into a type of lung cell, called type II alveolar cells. Alveolar cells secrete surfactant, a substance which allows the air sacs in the lungs to remain open, allowing air to move in and out of the sacs. The cells also help to repair the airway after injury. The researchers will now work to better characterize the cells, so they could be used for future research in order to better understand lung development and disease. The cells may also be useful as a way to test potential new drugs.
Commentary: This is a signficant advance toward the clinical application of umbilical cord stem cells to treat lung diseases and injuries. Hopefully it can also be transformed into successful treatments for lung disease and a safe and effective method to testnew drugs.
Posted: November 1, 2006
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have, for the first time, coaxed umbilical cord blood stem cells to differentiate into a type of lung cell, called type II alveolar cells. Alveolar cells secrete surfactant, a substance which allows the air sacs in the lungs to remain open, allowing air to move in and out of the sacs. The cells also help to repair the airway after injury. The researchers will now work to better characterize the cells, so they could be used for future research in order to better understand lung development and disease. The cells may also be useful as a way to test potential new drugs.
Commentary: This is a signficant advance toward the clinical application of umbilical cord stem cells to treat lung diseases and injuries. Hopefully it can also be transformed into successful treatments for lung disease and a safe and effective method to testnew drugs.
White Blood Cells Of Cancer-resistant Mice Overwhelm Natural Defenses Of Cancer Cells
Source: Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center
Date: November 1, 2006
Summary:
The discoverers of the unique mouse line that is resistant to cancer have begun to pin down how the process works and found that white blood cells in these mice overwhelm normal defenses of cancer cells. In a report in Cancer Immunity, a journal of the Academy of Cancer Immunology, posted on line today, researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine and colleagues said that several types of white blood cells in the mice attack cancer cells by sensing, finding and surrounding them, forming a "rosette," and then killing them.
Commentary: Maybe researchers will be able to use these results to devise new strategies to develop drugs or treatments that enable white blood cells to destroy cancer cells in humans.
Date: November 1, 2006
Summary:
The discoverers of the unique mouse line that is resistant to cancer have begun to pin down how the process works and found that white blood cells in these mice overwhelm normal defenses of cancer cells. In a report in Cancer Immunity, a journal of the Academy of Cancer Immunology, posted on line today, researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine and colleagues said that several types of white blood cells in the mice attack cancer cells by sensing, finding and surrounding them, forming a "rosette," and then killing them.
Commentary: Maybe researchers will be able to use these results to devise new strategies to develop drugs or treatments that enable white blood cells to destroy cancer cells in humans.
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