Associated Press
Friday, March 30, 2007 (03-30) 11:38 PDT WASHINGTON
Here is the full text of the Associated Press story on the U.S. Senate stem cell vote, scheduled for some time in April.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Thursday, March 29, 2007
UF launches project to bridge the regeneration gap
Source: University of Florida Health Science Center
Date: March 29, 2007 16:35 ET
Summary:
Researchers at the McKnight Brain Institute of the University of Florida have initiated a project to treat human brain and other diseases by plundering the secrets of regeneration from creatures with remarkable powers of self-renewal, such as salamanders, newts, starfish and flatworms. The project will involve researchers from far-ranging disciplines, including scientists who study how vertebrate development began millions of years ago as well as scientists who are trying to treat blindness by influencing the activity of stem cells in the human eye. In terms of brain diseases, scientists may look at ways to mobilize and reinforce the body’s own supply of adult stem cells to protect against or fight Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, cancer, multiple sclerosis and traumatic injury.
Date: March 29, 2007 16:35 ET
Summary:
Researchers at the McKnight Brain Institute of the University of Florida have initiated a project to treat human brain and other diseases by plundering the secrets of regeneration from creatures with remarkable powers of self-renewal, such as salamanders, newts, starfish and flatworms. The project will involve researchers from far-ranging disciplines, including scientists who study how vertebrate development began millions of years ago as well as scientists who are trying to treat blindness by influencing the activity of stem cells in the human eye. In terms of brain diseases, scientists may look at ways to mobilize and reinforce the body’s own supply of adult stem cells to protect against or fight Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, cancer, multiple sclerosis and traumatic injury.
Researchers identify critical receptor in liver regeneration
Source: University of California - San Diego
Date: March 29, 2007
Summary:
In studies in mouse models, researchers at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) School of Medicine have found that a cellular receptor involved in triggering cell death is also a necessary component of tissue repair and regeneration immediately following liver injury. This discovery could have implications for early intervention or therapy in liver disease such as cirrhosis or hepatitis.
Date: March 29, 2007
Summary:
In studies in mouse models, researchers at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) School of Medicine have found that a cellular receptor involved in triggering cell death is also a necessary component of tissue repair and regeneration immediately following liver injury. This discovery could have implications for early intervention or therapy in liver disease such as cirrhosis or hepatitis.
Gladstone Scientists Identify Critical Gene Factor In Heart Development
Source: Gladstone Institutes
Date: March 29, 2007
Summary:
Researchers at the Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease (GICD) announced they have identified a critical genetic factor in the control of many aspects of heart form and function. As reported in the journal Cell, scientists in the lab of Deepak Srivastava, MD, have successfully deleted a genetic factor, called a microRNA, in animal models to understand the role it plays in cardiovascular differentiation and development.
Date: March 29, 2007
Summary:
Researchers at the Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease (GICD) announced they have identified a critical genetic factor in the control of many aspects of heart form and function. As reported in the journal Cell, scientists in the lab of Deepak Srivastava, MD, have successfully deleted a genetic factor, called a microRNA, in animal models to understand the role it plays in cardiovascular differentiation and development.
For Athletes, the Next Fountain of Youth?
Source: New York Times
Date: March 29, 2007
Summary:
The New York Times reports on new research using stem cells from umbilical cord blood to develop treatments to repair ligament and tendon damage from sports injuries:
"The latest curative leap to heal professional athletes and weekend warriors alike may sound like science fiction, but it could transform sports medicine. Some doctors and researchers say that in a few years the use of primitive stem cells from infants’ umbilical cord blood could grow new knee ligaments or elbow tendons creating a therapy that becomes the vanguard of sports injury repair."
The article continues, "Stem cell therapies could do more than refurbish joints, they could help build muscle in elite athletes and increase other physical capacities at a pace and proficiency not conventionally attainable."
Commentary:
Maybe the fact that some sports injures are not necessarily life-threatening might slow this area of regenerative medicine because more scientists are currently focused on stem cell applications for health conditions that are life-threatening, instead of career-threatening for athletes. On the other hand, this research may yield improvements in quality of life for people who have suffered sports-related injuries.
Date: March 29, 2007
Summary:
The New York Times reports on new research using stem cells from umbilical cord blood to develop treatments to repair ligament and tendon damage from sports injuries:
"The latest curative leap to heal professional athletes and weekend warriors alike may sound like science fiction, but it could transform sports medicine. Some doctors and researchers say that in a few years the use of primitive stem cells from infants’ umbilical cord blood could grow new knee ligaments or elbow tendons creating a therapy that becomes the vanguard of sports injury repair."
The article continues, "Stem cell therapies could do more than refurbish joints, they could help build muscle in elite athletes and increase other physical capacities at a pace and proficiency not conventionally attainable."
Commentary:
Maybe the fact that some sports injures are not necessarily life-threatening might slow this area of regenerative medicine because more scientists are currently focused on stem cell applications for health conditions that are life-threatening, instead of career-threatening for athletes. On the other hand, this research may yield improvements in quality of life for people who have suffered sports-related injuries.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
New glimpse into early brain development shows how nerve cells move into position
Source: Rockefeller University
Posted: March 28, 2007
Summary:
New research has pinned down how cells in the cerebellum migrate and differentiate during the first stages of brain development, and shows that different combinations of regulatory proteins called transcription factors are responsible for driving these changes.
Posted: March 28, 2007
Summary:
New research has pinned down how cells in the cerebellum migrate and differentiate during the first stages of brain development, and shows that different combinations of regulatory proteins called transcription factors are responsible for driving these changes.
Stem cell therapy shows promise for rescuing deteriorating vision
Source: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Date: March 28, 2007
Summary:
For the millions of Americans whose vision is slowly ebbing due to degenerative diseases of the eye, the lowly neural progenitor cell may be riding to the rescue. In a study in rats, neural progenitor cells derived from human fetal stem cells have been shown to protect the vision of animals with degenerative eye disease similar to the kinds of diseases that afflict humans. The new study appears today (March 28) in the journal Public Library of Science (PLoS) One.
Date: March 28, 2007
Summary:
For the millions of Americans whose vision is slowly ebbing due to degenerative diseases of the eye, the lowly neural progenitor cell may be riding to the rescue. In a study in rats, neural progenitor cells derived from human fetal stem cells have been shown to protect the vision of animals with degenerative eye disease similar to the kinds of diseases that afflict humans. The new study appears today (March 28) in the journal Public Library of Science (PLoS) One.
Senate to debate bill expanding stem-cell studies
Source: Denver Post
Posted: March 28, 2007 01:30:09 AM MDT
Summary:
Legislation to lift limits on federal embryonic stem-cell research is headed back to the Senate floor, and possibly back to President Bush. Sen. Majority Leader Harry Reid on Tuesday said senators will debate stem-cell legislation in early April. They'll consider a bill similar to the one sponsored by Denver Democratic Rep. Diana DeGette, which passed the House in January.
Posted: March 28, 2007 01:30:09 AM MDT
Summary:
Legislation to lift limits on federal embryonic stem-cell research is headed back to the Senate floor, and possibly back to President Bush. Sen. Majority Leader Harry Reid on Tuesday said senators will debate stem-cell legislation in early April. They'll consider a bill similar to the one sponsored by Denver Democratic Rep. Diana DeGette, which passed the House in January.
Dental Enamel Re-Grown From Cultured Cells
Source: International & American Association for Dental Research
Posted: March 27, 2007 - 23:00 PDT
Summary:
A team of researchers from the Institute of Medical Science, the University of Tokyo (Japan), have discovered a new technique for culturing cells that have the capacity to produce enamel. This group has recently shown that epithelial cells extracted from the developing teeth of 6-month-old pigs continue to proliferate when they are cultured on top of a special feeder layer of cells. This crucial step boosts the number of dental epithelial cells available for enamel production.
Posted: March 27, 2007 - 23:00 PDT
Summary:
A team of researchers from the Institute of Medical Science, the University of Tokyo (Japan), have discovered a new technique for culturing cells that have the capacity to produce enamel. This group has recently shown that epithelial cells extracted from the developing teeth of 6-month-old pigs continue to proliferate when they are cultured on top of a special feeder layer of cells. This crucial step boosts the number of dental epithelial cells available for enamel production.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Heart Attack Patients Treated With Novel Stem Cell Therapy Experience Significant Improvement in Heart and Lung Function
Source: Rush University Medical Center
Date: March 27, 2007
Summary:
Heart attack patients who received an new intravenous adult stem cell therapy, Provacel™, experienced a lower number of adverse events, such as cardiac arrhythmias, and had significant improvements in heart, lung and global function compared to those who received a placebo, according to six-month Phase I study data presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Innovation in Intervention: i2Summit in New Orleans.
Date: March 27, 2007
Summary:
Heart attack patients who received an new intravenous adult stem cell therapy, Provacel™, experienced a lower number of adverse events, such as cardiac arrhythmias, and had significant improvements in heart, lung and global function compared to those who received a placebo, according to six-month Phase I study data presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Innovation in Intervention: i2Summit in New Orleans.
Engineering the heart piece by piece
Source: University of Michigan Health System
Date: March 27, 2007
Summary:
Some day, heart attack survivors might have a patch of laboratory-grown muscle placed in their heart, to replace areas that died during their attack. Children born with defective heart valves might get new ones that can grow in place, rather than being replaced every few years. And people with clogged or weak blood vessels might get a new “natural” replacement, instead of a factory-made one.
Date: March 27, 2007
Summary:
Some day, heart attack survivors might have a patch of laboratory-grown muscle placed in their heart, to replace areas that died during their attack. Children born with defective heart valves might get new ones that can grow in place, rather than being replaced every few years. And people with clogged or weak blood vessels might get a new “natural” replacement, instead of a factory-made one.
Stem cells speed growth of healthy liver tissue
Source: Radiological Society of North America
Date: March 27, 2007
Summary:
For the first time, researchers have used adult bone marrow stem cells to quickly regenerate healthy human liver tissue, according to a study published in the April issue of the journal Radiology.
Date: March 27, 2007
Summary:
For the first time, researchers have used adult bone marrow stem cells to quickly regenerate healthy human liver tissue, according to a study published in the April issue of the journal Radiology.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Nanoparticles can track cells deep within living organisms
Source: Washington University School of Medicine
Date: March 26, 2007
Summary:
To the delight of researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, living cells gobbled up fluorine-laced nanoparticles without needing any coaxing. Then, because of the unusual meal, the cells were easily located with MRI scanning after being injected into mice. The researchers believe that nanoparticle-labeled adult stem cells could be used to evaluate tumors. Under an MRI scan, the presence of the labeled cells would reveal that the tumor was adding new blood vessels and therefore aggressively growing. Adult stem cells are also under investigation in therapies that enhance new blood vessel growth to improve the blood supply to diabetic patients' limbs or to repair blood vessels after a heart attack or bypass surgery. Tracking nanoparticle-labeled cells used in such treatments by MRI imaging would allow physicians to monitor the treatment's success or failure.
Date: March 26, 2007
Summary:
To the delight of researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, living cells gobbled up fluorine-laced nanoparticles without needing any coaxing. Then, because of the unusual meal, the cells were easily located with MRI scanning after being injected into mice. The researchers believe that nanoparticle-labeled adult stem cells could be used to evaluate tumors. Under an MRI scan, the presence of the labeled cells would reveal that the tumor was adding new blood vessels and therefore aggressively growing. Adult stem cells are also under investigation in therapies that enhance new blood vessel growth to improve the blood supply to diabetic patients' limbs or to repair blood vessels after a heart attack or bypass surgery. Tracking nanoparticle-labeled cells used in such treatments by MRI imaging would allow physicians to monitor the treatment's success or failure.
Stem cells might lead to cancer vaccine
Source: United Press International
Date: March 26, 2007
Summary:
U.S. medical scientists have determined immunity to cancer stem cells might help protect people with a precancerous condition from developing the disease.
Date: March 26, 2007
Summary:
U.S. medical scientists have determined immunity to cancer stem cells might help protect people with a precancerous condition from developing the disease.
Muscle Stem Cells May Offer A New Treatment Option For Congestive Heart Failure
Source: American College of Cardiology
Date: March 26, 2007
Summary:
As a new wave of stem cell research continues, cardiologists are trying to tap into the self-renewing cells' life-saving potential. Scientists have performed the first U.S. controlled, randomized Phase I clinical trial using a three-dimensional guided catheter system to deliver muscular stem cells to the heart.
Date: March 26, 2007
Summary:
As a new wave of stem cell research continues, cardiologists are trying to tap into the self-renewing cells' life-saving potential. Scientists have performed the first U.S. controlled, randomized Phase I clinical trial using a three-dimensional guided catheter system to deliver muscular stem cells to the heart.
First Human Trial Tests Stem-cell-based Treatment For Heart Attacks
Source: American College of Cardiology
Date: March 26, 2007
Summary:
An experimental treatment using adult stem cells was able to limit heart damage and improve the quality of life of patients suffering their first heart attack, according to a study of patients in Minneapolis and several other cities.
Date: March 26, 2007
Summary:
An experimental treatment using adult stem cells was able to limit heart damage and improve the quality of life of patients suffering their first heart attack, according to a study of patients in Minneapolis and several other cities.
Stem Cells May Treat Heart Failure: Symptoms Improve for Heart Attack and Heart Failure Patients
Source: WebMD
Date: March 26, 2007
Summary:
Scientists have successfully used stem cells from adult bone marrow to treat people with heart failure and heart attacks. In one study, direct injections of stem cells into injured heart muscle helped people with heart failure to breathe better, walk farther, and generally feel better,researchers at the University of California San Diego reported. In a second study, people who got infusions of stem cells within a week of a heart attack had better heart function and fewer potentially life-threatening irregular rhythms than those who didn't get the treatment, according to University of Miami researchers. After six months, patients who had received the stem cell injections had significant improvements in heart function and quality of life.
Date: March 26, 2007
Summary:
Scientists have successfully used stem cells from adult bone marrow to treat people with heart failure and heart attacks. In one study, direct injections of stem cells into injured heart muscle helped people with heart failure to breathe better, walk farther, and generally feel better,researchers at the University of California San Diego reported. In a second study, people who got infusions of stem cells within a week of a heart attack had better heart function and fewer potentially life-threatening irregular rhythms than those who didn't get the treatment, according to University of Miami researchers. After six months, patients who had received the stem cell injections had significant improvements in heart function and quality of life.
Immune response to cancer stem cells may dictate cancer's course
Source: Rockefeller University
Date: March 26, 2007
Summary:
Although stem cells hold incredible promise in the fight against certain diseases, in cancer they're anything but helpful. In fact, mounting evidence is showing that a tumor's growth and spread may depend on "cancer stem cells," which comprise only a very small subset of the tumor. Now, a new study by Rockefeller University scientists shows that immunity to cancer stem cells may help protect people with a precancerous condition from developing the full-blown disease, and that these cells could be an important target for cancer vaccines.
Date: March 26, 2007
Summary:
Although stem cells hold incredible promise in the fight against certain diseases, in cancer they're anything but helpful. In fact, mounting evidence is showing that a tumor's growth and spread may depend on "cancer stem cells," which comprise only a very small subset of the tumor. Now, a new study by Rockefeller University scientists shows that immunity to cancer stem cells may help protect people with a precancerous condition from developing the full-blown disease, and that these cells could be an important target for cancer vaccines.
Stem Cell Treatment Could Save Patients With Heart Failure
Source: ABC News
Date: March 26, 2007
Summary:
ABC News reports on a new adult stem cell treatment for patients with heart failure:
"Scientists have announced that they have been able to use stem cells to treat patients with heart failure, some of the first evidence that the much-hyped therapy could have significant clinical benefits. In two studies reported at the American College of Cardiology conference, scientists used adult stem cells — not the more controversial embryonic stem cells — to treat patients and saw marked improvement in their health. Experts note these early studies need to be replicated in larger groups to confirm the results."
Date: March 26, 2007
Summary:
ABC News reports on a new adult stem cell treatment for patients with heart failure:
"Scientists have announced that they have been able to use stem cells to treat patients with heart failure, some of the first evidence that the much-hyped therapy could have significant clinical benefits. In two studies reported at the American College of Cardiology conference, scientists used adult stem cells — not the more controversial embryonic stem cells — to treat patients and saw marked improvement in their health. Experts note these early studies need to be replicated in larger groups to confirm the results."
Stem cells may help hearts heal in future
Source: Miami Herald
Date: March 26, 2007
Summary:
Promising early results in a small study led by a University of Miami medical researcher have him optimistic that adult stem cells injected into the veins of heart attack victims might help heal their hearts. The study is part of a Phase I clinical trial; Phases II and III are needed over a few years before earning FDA approval.
Date: March 26, 2007
Summary:
Promising early results in a small study led by a University of Miami medical researcher have him optimistic that adult stem cells injected into the veins of heart attack victims might help heal their hearts. The study is part of a Phase I clinical trial; Phases II and III are needed over a few years before earning FDA approval.
UM researcher: Stem cells found to help victims of heart attacks, study shows
Source: South Florida Sun-Sentinel
Posted: March 26, 2007
Summary:
Heart attack patients who got infusions of stem cells within a week of a heart attack had fewer episodes of irregular heartbeat and better recovery than those who didn't get the treatment, according to a University of Miami study.
Posted: March 26, 2007
Summary:
Heart attack patients who got infusions of stem cells within a week of a heart attack had fewer episodes of irregular heartbeat and better recovery than those who didn't get the treatment, according to a University of Miami study.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Stem cells may help heart disease
Source: Minneapolis-St. Paul Star Tribune
Posted: March 25, 2007 – 8:27 PM
Summary:
An experimental treatment using adult stem cells was able to limit heart damage and improve the quality of life of patients suffering their first heart attack. The results were also unexpected, because the original intent of the study was mainly to test the safety of a drug called Provacel. Made from the bone marrow cells of an anonymous adult donor, the drug improved both the heart function and, surprisingly, the lung function in patients after their heart attacks.
Posted: March 25, 2007 – 8:27 PM
Summary:
An experimental treatment using adult stem cells was able to limit heart damage and improve the quality of life of patients suffering their first heart attack. The results were also unexpected, because the original intent of the study was mainly to test the safety of a drug called Provacel. Made from the bone marrow cells of an anonymous adult donor, the drug improved both the heart function and, surprisingly, the lung function in patients after their heart attacks.
Osiris's Adult Stem Cells Help Heart Attack Patients in Study
Source: Bloomberg News
Date: March 25, 2007
Summary:
Bloomberg News reports on a new stem cell treatment for heart attack patients developed by adult stem cell company Osiris Therapeutics, Inc.:
"Osiris Therapeutics Inc.'s easy-to- administer stem cell treatment helped patients recover after a heart attack and eased their symptoms in a study. The cells were given intravenously to patients who had a heart attack within the past 10 days, researchers said. The hearts of those who got the cells pumped 25 percent more efficiently both three months and six months after treatment, according to research presented today at a science meeting."
Date: March 25, 2007
Summary:
Bloomberg News reports on a new stem cell treatment for heart attack patients developed by adult stem cell company Osiris Therapeutics, Inc.:
"Osiris Therapeutics Inc.'s easy-to- administer stem cell treatment helped patients recover after a heart attack and eased their symptoms in a study. The cells were given intravenously to patients who had a heart attack within the past 10 days, researchers said. The hearts of those who got the cells pumped 25 percent more efficiently both three months and six months after treatment, according to research presented today at a science meeting."
Osiris Therapeutics Announces Positive Results in Groundbreaking Stem Cell Trial to Treat Heart Disease
Source: Osiris Therapeutics, Inc.
Date: March 25, 2007
Summary:
Osiris Therapeutics, Inc. announced positive six-month results in a groundbreaking clinical trial evaluating PROVACEL(TM), an adult mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy for the treatment of heart disease. In a 53-patient, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating the safety and preliminary efficacy of the intravenous administration of PROVACEL, heart attack patients receiving the therapy had significantly lower rates of adverse events, such as cardiac arrhythmias, as well as significant improvements in heart, lung and overall condition.
Date: March 25, 2007
Summary:
Osiris Therapeutics, Inc. announced positive six-month results in a groundbreaking clinical trial evaluating PROVACEL(TM), an adult mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy for the treatment of heart disease. In a 53-patient, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating the safety and preliminary efficacy of the intravenous administration of PROVACEL, heart attack patients receiving the therapy had significantly lower rates of adverse events, such as cardiac arrhythmias, as well as significant improvements in heart, lung and overall condition.
Osiris Stem Cells Safe for Heart Injury
Source: The Street.com
Posted: March 25, 2007 12:00 PM EDT
Summary:
The Street.com reports on a new clinical trial by Osiris Therapeutics that uses adult stem cells to treat heart disease:
"An early experiment using adult stem cells to treat heart attack patients has allayed concerns over the treatment's safety and, surprisingly, yielded some data suggesting that stem cells might help repair an injured heart. Osiris Therapeutics reported positive safety and efficacy data from a phase I study of its adult stem cell therapy, Provacel, in patients with heart disease."
Posted: March 25, 2007 12:00 PM EDT
Summary:
The Street.com reports on a new clinical trial by Osiris Therapeutics that uses adult stem cells to treat heart disease:
"An early experiment using adult stem cells to treat heart attack patients has allayed concerns over the treatment's safety and, surprisingly, yielded some data suggesting that stem cells might help repair an injured heart. Osiris Therapeutics reported positive safety and efficacy data from a phase I study of its adult stem cell therapy, Provacel, in patients with heart disease."
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Granada-Based Scientists Make The First Artificial Cornea Model Using Rabbit Stem Cells
Source: University of Granada
Date: March 24, 2007
Summary:
Scientists of the research group called 'IngenierÃa Tisular' of the University of Granada have made the first artificial cornea model using stem cells of rabbit's sclerocorneal limbus. These artificial corneas can be a tool for in vitro research into medicine permeability.
Date: March 24, 2007
Summary:
Scientists of the research group called 'IngenierÃa Tisular' of the University of Granada have made the first artificial cornea model using stem cells of rabbit's sclerocorneal limbus. These artificial corneas can be a tool for in vitro research into medicine permeability.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Cells use 'noise' to make cell-fate decisions
Source: UT Southwestern Medical Center
Date: March 22, 2007
Summary:
Electrical noise, like the crackle heard on AM radio when lightning strikes nearby, is a nuisance that wreaks havoc on electronic devices. But within cells, a similar kind of biochemical “noise” is beneficial, helping cells transform from one state to another, according to a new study led by a UT Southwestern Medical Center researcher.
Date: March 22, 2007
Summary:
Electrical noise, like the crackle heard on AM radio when lightning strikes nearby, is a nuisance that wreaks havoc on electronic devices. But within cells, a similar kind of biochemical “noise” is beneficial, helping cells transform from one state to another, according to a new study led by a UT Southwestern Medical Center researcher.
Breakthrough may help leukemia victims: Blood stem cells from the livers of two-week-old mouse fetuses used in study
Source: Vancouver Sun
Date: March 22, 2007
Summary:
The Vancouver Sun reports on a new research finding in using stem cells to treat leukemia and other blood cancers in mouse fetuses:
"Researchers at the BC Cancer Agency are reporting a potential breakthrough in stem cell research on laboratory mice that may eventually help cancer specialists develop better treatments for people with leukemia and other cancers of the blood system.
The study used blood stem cells -- cells that can regenerate more blood cells -- from the livers of two-week-old mouse fetuses."
Date: March 22, 2007
Summary:
The Vancouver Sun reports on a new research finding in using stem cells to treat leukemia and other blood cancers in mouse fetuses:
"Researchers at the BC Cancer Agency are reporting a potential breakthrough in stem cell research on laboratory mice that may eventually help cancer specialists develop better treatments for people with leukemia and other cancers of the blood system.
The study used blood stem cells -- cells that can regenerate more blood cells -- from the livers of two-week-old mouse fetuses."
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Novel Peptide Could Boost Availability and Success of Islet Cell Transplant for Type-1 Diabetes
Source: Weill Cornell Medical College
Date: March 21, 2007
Summary:
A peptide developed by scientists at Weill Cornell Medical College may expand the availability and durability of islet cell transplant for patients with type-1 diabetes, which is characterized by a lack of these insulin-producing cells. The findings were recently published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. The researchers say the current study is merely "proof of principle" that the peptide treatment might improve islet cell transplant. But the results are encouraging.
Date: March 21, 2007
Summary:
A peptide developed by scientists at Weill Cornell Medical College may expand the availability and durability of islet cell transplant for patients with type-1 diabetes, which is characterized by a lack of these insulin-producing cells. The findings were recently published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. The researchers say the current study is merely "proof of principle" that the peptide treatment might improve islet cell transplant. But the results are encouraging.
Can Stem Cells Cure Heart Disease? So far, clinical studies have produced mixed results, but a new set of trials aim to sort out the best approaches t
Source: MIT Technology Review
Date: March 21, 2007
Summary:
A new trial is now under way at a number of research sites around the country in an attempt to determine the most effective approach to treat heart disease using adult stem cells. The trial will use a specific type of blood-forming stem cell that will be injected directly into the heart muscle to treat heart-failure patients for whom all other treatments have been unsuccessful. Researchers think that this type of cell will boost growth of new blood vessels, thereby increasing blood flow to the heart.
Date: March 21, 2007
Summary:
A new trial is now under way at a number of research sites around the country in an attempt to determine the most effective approach to treat heart disease using adult stem cells. The trial will use a specific type of blood-forming stem cell that will be injected directly into the heart muscle to treat heart-failure patients for whom all other treatments have been unsuccessful. Researchers think that this type of cell will boost growth of new blood vessels, thereby increasing blood flow to the heart.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Neuralstem raises $5.135 million to help fund first human trial
Source: Washington Business Journal
Posted: March 20, 2007 12:16 PM EDT
Summary:
Neuralstem hopes to begin its first human clinical trial on a stem-cell product sometime this year and has raised more than $5 million to help fund the trial. The Rockville-based biotechnology company, whose focus is treatments based on the transplantation of human neural stem cells, raised about $5.14 million in a private placement of more than 2 million units at $2.50 per unit to a group of institutional investors.
Posted: March 20, 2007 12:16 PM EDT
Summary:
Neuralstem hopes to begin its first human clinical trial on a stem-cell product sometime this year and has raised more than $5 million to help fund the trial. The Rockville-based biotechnology company, whose focus is treatments based on the transplantation of human neural stem cells, raised about $5.14 million in a private placement of more than 2 million units at $2.50 per unit to a group of institutional investors.
Lipitor (atorvastatin) As A Treatment For Spinal Cord Injuries Following Trauma
Source: Medical University of South Carolina
Date: March 20, 2007
Summary:
In a multidisciplinary investigation led by Inderjit Singh, Ph.D, a breakthrough has been made in relation to the treatment of spinal cord injuries (SCI). Set for publication in the April issue of the Journal of Neurochemistry (101, 182-200), the study investigates the efficacy of atorvastatin (AT), commonly known as Lipitor, as a treatment for spinal cord injuries following trauma. The report demonstrates, for the first time, that by using AT in treating spinal cord injuries after they have occurred, animal models with hind-limb paralysis showed significant functional recovery and less secondary tissue damage. Importantly, scientists discovered that AT also protects the cells responsible for producing myelin in the spinal cord, a substance which maintains normal function by insulating nerve fibers that carry signals through the spinal cord. Therefore, this discovery of post-injury AT treatment may be extremely valuable in preserving neurological function and walking following spinal cord injuries.
Date: March 20, 2007
Summary:
In a multidisciplinary investigation led by Inderjit Singh, Ph.D, a breakthrough has been made in relation to the treatment of spinal cord injuries (SCI). Set for publication in the April issue of the Journal of Neurochemistry (101, 182-200), the study investigates the efficacy of atorvastatin (AT), commonly known as Lipitor, as a treatment for spinal cord injuries following trauma. The report demonstrates, for the first time, that by using AT in treating spinal cord injuries after they have occurred, animal models with hind-limb paralysis showed significant functional recovery and less secondary tissue damage. Importantly, scientists discovered that AT also protects the cells responsible for producing myelin in the spinal cord, a substance which maintains normal function by insulating nerve fibers that carry signals through the spinal cord. Therefore, this discovery of post-injury AT treatment may be extremely valuable in preserving neurological function and walking following spinal cord injuries.
Advanced Cell Technology hESC lines to be used in CIRM-Funded Study To Test Development of New Therapies For Heart Disease
Source: Advanced Cell Technology, Inc.
Posted: March 20, 2007 8:33 am ET
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology, Inc. announced that preclinical studies using human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) derived from its proprietary ACTcellerate technology (a means of accelerating the discovery of products from hESC) will be used as part of a study to determine if hESCs are safe and effective in animal models for heart attacks and heart failure. The studies will be funded under a $2.52 million grant awarded to University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) scientist Randall Lee, M.D, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Medicine, from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine. The grant is for four years of study. CIRM, the governing body of Proposition 71, manages the $3 billion California initiative.
Posted: March 20, 2007 8:33 am ET
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology, Inc. announced that preclinical studies using human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) derived from its proprietary ACTcellerate technology (a means of accelerating the discovery of products from hESC) will be used as part of a study to determine if hESCs are safe and effective in animal models for heart attacks and heart failure. The studies will be funded under a $2.52 million grant awarded to University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) scientist Randall Lee, M.D, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Medicine, from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine. The grant is for four years of study. CIRM, the governing body of Proposition 71, manages the $3 billion California initiative.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Stem Cell Signaling Mystery Solved
Source: University of Southern California
Date: March 19, 2007
Summary:
A newly discovered small molecule called IQ-1 plays a key role in preventing embryonic stem cells from differentiating into one or more specific cell types, allowing them to instead continue growing and dividing indefinitely, according to research performed by a team of scientists who have recently joined the stem-cell research efforts at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California. Their findings are being published today in an early online edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Date: March 19, 2007
Summary:
A newly discovered small molecule called IQ-1 plays a key role in preventing embryonic stem cells from differentiating into one or more specific cell types, allowing them to instead continue growing and dividing indefinitely, according to research performed by a team of scientists who have recently joined the stem-cell research efforts at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California. Their findings are being published today in an early online edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Researchers hot on the trail of brain cell degeneration
Source: Academy of Finland
Date: March 19, 2007
Summary:
A research team headed by Academy Research Fellow Michael Courtney has identified a new molecular pathway in neurons. The pathway is a factor in the degeneration of brain cells, which in turn plays an important role in neurological conditions and diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy and stroke.
Date: March 19, 2007
Summary:
A research team headed by Academy Research Fellow Michael Courtney has identified a new molecular pathway in neurons. The pathway is a factor in the degeneration of brain cells, which in turn plays an important role in neurological conditions and diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy and stroke.
Researchers hot on the trail of brain cell degeneration
Source: Academy of Finland
Date: March 19, 2007
Summary:
A research team headed by Academy Research Fellow Michael Courtney has identified a new molecular pathway in neurons. The pathway is a factor in the degeneration of brain cells, which in turn plays an important role in neurological conditions and diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy and stroke.
Date: March 19, 2007
Summary:
A research team headed by Academy Research Fellow Michael Courtney has identified a new molecular pathway in neurons. The pathway is a factor in the degeneration of brain cells, which in turn plays an important role in neurological conditions and diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy and stroke.
A new look into cancer's roots: Scientists revive study of stem cells' link to disease
Source: Baltimore Sun
Date: March 19, 2007
Summary:
The Baltimore Sun reports cancer researchers are gaining new insights into cancer stem cell function and treatment by working on figuring out how to destroy cancer stem cells:
"The notion of stem cells as potential villains is counterintuitive, given their highly publicized promise for repairing damaged tissues and organs. But some experts say that certain stem cells may be just as good at restoring cancers that doctors are trying to eradicate. Learning how to destroy cancer stem cells, they theorize, might lead to that most elusive of breakthroughs - the cure for cancer."
Date: March 19, 2007
Summary:
The Baltimore Sun reports cancer researchers are gaining new insights into cancer stem cell function and treatment by working on figuring out how to destroy cancer stem cells:
"The notion of stem cells as potential villains is counterintuitive, given their highly publicized promise for repairing damaged tissues and organs. But some experts say that certain stem cells may be just as good at restoring cancers that doctors are trying to eradicate. Learning how to destroy cancer stem cells, they theorize, might lead to that most elusive of breakthroughs - the cure for cancer."
Friday, March 16, 2007
Potential for Adult Stem Cells to Repair Hearts Damaged by Severe Coronary Artery Disease Investigated in Ongoing Study
Source: Columbia University Medical Center
Date: March 16, 2007
Summary:
Columbia University Medical Center and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital is one of the first medical centers in the country participating in a novel clinical trial investigating if a patient's own stem cells can treat a form of severe coronary artery disease.
Date: March 16, 2007
Summary:
Columbia University Medical Center and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital is one of the first medical centers in the country participating in a novel clinical trial investigating if a patient's own stem cells can treat a form of severe coronary artery disease.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Stem cell therapy improves sight of patients born with no irises
Source: Guardian Unlimited - UK
Date: March 15, 2007
Summary:
People with a rare genetic condition causing them to have no irises, called aniridia, are having their sight improved thanks to stem cell therapy being pioneered in a British hospital. Doctors treat the condition by transplanting into their eyes cells grown from those of dead donors. The stem cell transplants trigger production of new cells in the patients, leading to the hope that such techniques could help grow even hearts and livers.
Date: March 15, 2007
Summary:
People with a rare genetic condition causing them to have no irises, called aniridia, are having their sight improved thanks to stem cell therapy being pioneered in a British hospital. Doctors treat the condition by transplanting into their eyes cells grown from those of dead donors. The stem cell transplants trigger production of new cells in the patients, leading to the hope that such techniques could help grow even hearts and livers.
Stem cells used for eye disorder
Source: BBC NEWS
Posted: March 15, 2007 15:03:33 GMT
Summary:
People suffering from a rare genetic eye disorder called aniridia, in which they are born with no iris,. which resulting in loss of vision, are being treated with stem cell therapy by specialists. Doctors reported four patients had so far reported an improvement in their condition following treatment. Stem cells from the patients, dead donors or living relatives are grown in a lab and transplanted onto the cornea.
Posted: March 15, 2007 15:03:33 GMT
Summary:
People suffering from a rare genetic eye disorder called aniridia, in which they are born with no iris,. which resulting in loss of vision, are being treated with stem cell therapy by specialists. Doctors reported four patients had so far reported an improvement in their condition following treatment. Stem cells from the patients, dead donors or living relatives are grown in a lab and transplanted onto the cornea.
Stem Cell Finding Could Help Fight Autoimmune Disease
Source: HealthDay News
Date: March 15, 2007
Summary:
In a finding that could help researchers better understand autoimmune disease, scientists say a process called autophagy prompts dying embryonic stem cells to send out "eat me" and "come and get me" signals to ensure their elimination by healthy cells.
Date: March 15, 2007
Summary:
In a finding that could help researchers better understand autoimmune disease, scientists say a process called autophagy prompts dying embryonic stem cells to send out "eat me" and "come and get me" signals to ensure their elimination by healthy cells.
Japanese researchers make cornea breakthrough
Source: The Daily Yomiuri
Date: March 15, 2007
Summary:
A team of researchers at Tokyo University Hospital has succeeded in using a cornea cell to grow cornea epithelial tissue, which is essential for treating deteriorating eyesight caused by damage to the surface of a cornea caused by the side effects of medicine or drugs. A researcher said he hoped the method could help to restore vision.
Date: March 15, 2007
Summary:
A team of researchers at Tokyo University Hospital has succeeded in using a cornea cell to grow cornea epithelial tissue, which is essential for treating deteriorating eyesight caused by damage to the surface of a cornea caused by the side effects of medicine or drugs. A researcher said he hoped the method could help to restore vision.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
New Cell Type Identified In Cancer Development
Source: Public Library of Science
Date: March 14, 2007
Summary:
Scientists have discovered a new type of cell that appears to play a role in the development of cancer -- a highly volatile, precancerous stem cell that can either remain benign or become malignant, depending upon environmental cues. The finding may help define the role of cancer stem cells in the growth and recurrence of the disease as well as offer new options for cancer prevention, detection and treatment.
Date: March 14, 2007
Summary:
Scientists have discovered a new type of cell that appears to play a role in the development of cancer -- a highly volatile, precancerous stem cell that can either remain benign or become malignant, depending upon environmental cues. The finding may help define the role of cancer stem cells in the growth and recurrence of the disease as well as offer new options for cancer prevention, detection and treatment.
Study Compares Stem Cell Transplants for Myeloma
Source: HealthDay News
Date: March 14, 2007
Summary:
"Younger patients diagnosed with the blood cancer myeloma survived longer if they received a stem cell transplant from themselves that was followed by one from a matched sibling -- rather than receiving two transplants from themselves, researchers report."
Date: March 14, 2007
Summary:
"Younger patients diagnosed with the blood cancer myeloma survived longer if they received a stem cell transplant from themselves that was followed by one from a matched sibling -- rather than receiving two transplants from themselves, researchers report."
Chemical cues turn embryonic stem cells into cerebellar neurons
Source: Rockefeller University
Date: March 14, 2007
Summary:
In order to differentiate and specialize, stem cells require very specific environmental cues in a very specific order, and scientists have so far been unable to prod them to go through each of the necessary steps. But now, for the first time, a study in mice by Rockefeller University scientists shows that embryonic stem cells implanted in the brain appear to develop into fully differentiated granule neurons, the most plentiful neuron in the cerebellum. The findings were reported Feb. 20 in the online edition of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Date: March 14, 2007
Summary:
In order to differentiate and specialize, stem cells require very specific environmental cues in a very specific order, and scientists have so far been unable to prod them to go through each of the necessary steps. But now, for the first time, a study in mice by Rockefeller University scientists shows that embryonic stem cells implanted in the brain appear to develop into fully differentiated granule neurons, the most plentiful neuron in the cerebellum. The findings were reported Feb. 20 in the online edition of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
New Pill Improves Side Effect of Stem Cell Transplants
Source: American Cancer Society
Date: March 13, 2007
Summary:
The American Cancer Society reports on the development of a new drug treatment for graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a side-effect of stem cell transplants:
"A new steroid pill could help tame one form of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a complication of the stem cell transplants some cancer patients need. In a recent study, patients who got the pill had fewer flare-ups of GVHD in their stomach and intestine and had a lower risk of dying one year after their transplant."
Date: March 13, 2007
Summary:
The American Cancer Society reports on the development of a new drug treatment for graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a side-effect of stem cell transplants:
"A new steroid pill could help tame one form of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a complication of the stem cell transplants some cancer patients need. In a recent study, patients who got the pill had fewer flare-ups of GVHD in their stomach and intestine and had a lower risk of dying one year after their transplant."
U-M scientists gain insights about lung transplants
Source Ann Arbor News
Date: March 13, 2007
Summary:
A University of Michigan study involving a type of lung stem cells suggests they may be able to help with lung disease and donated organ rejection.
Date: March 13, 2007
Summary:
A University of Michigan study involving a type of lung stem cells suggests they may be able to help with lung disease and donated organ rejection.
New cell type identified in cancer development
Source: Public Library of Science
Date: March 13, 2007
Summary:
Scientists have discovered a new type of cell that appears to play a role in the development of cancer – a highly volatile, precancerous stem cell that can either remain benign or become malignant, depending upon environmental cues. The finding may help define the role of cancer stem cells in the growth and recurrence of the disease as well as offer new options for cancer prevention, detection and treatment.
Date: March 13, 2007
Summary:
Scientists have discovered a new type of cell that appears to play a role in the development of cancer – a highly volatile, precancerous stem cell that can either remain benign or become malignant, depending upon environmental cues. The finding may help define the role of cancer stem cells in the growth and recurrence of the disease as well as offer new options for cancer prevention, detection and treatment.
Cloned disused eggs offer hope in stem cell debate
Source: Agence France Presse (AFP)
Posted: March 13, 2007 5:08 AM EST
Summary:
Japanese scientists have succeeded in cloning mouse embryos from unfertilised eggs, a breakthrough that could help resolve the passionate ethical debate about stem cell research.
Posted: March 13, 2007 5:08 AM EST
Summary:
Japanese scientists have succeeded in cloning mouse embryos from unfertilised eggs, a breakthrough that could help resolve the passionate ethical debate about stem cell research.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Stem Cell Study Lays Groundwork For Clinical Bridge In Neurodegenerative Disease
Source: Burnham Institute
Date: March 12, 2007
Summary:
After injury, even adult muscles can heal very well because they have a reserve supply of muscle stem cells, called satellite cells, which they can utilize for repair. Until now, it was unclear how this supply of satellite and muscle progenitor cells, out of which both muscle cells as well as satellite cells develop, keeps itself "fresh".
Date: March 12, 2007
Summary:
After injury, even adult muscles can heal very well because they have a reserve supply of muscle stem cells, called satellite cells, which they can utilize for repair. Until now, it was unclear how this supply of satellite and muscle progenitor cells, out of which both muscle cells as well as satellite cells develop, keeps itself "fresh".
Human stem cells battle degenerative brain diseases
Source: NewScientist.com news service
Posted: 12 March 2007 11:14 GMT
Summary:
Embryonic and adult stem cells offer similar protection against neurodegenerative disease, according to a landmark study in mice which has achieved a number of firsts with human stem cells. For the first time, rodents genetically predisposed to disease lived longer and healthier lives after receiving injections of the human cells, researchers claim.
Posted: 12 March 2007 11:14 GMT
Summary:
Embryonic and adult stem cells offer similar protection against neurodegenerative disease, according to a landmark study in mice which has achieved a number of firsts with human stem cells. For the first time, rodents genetically predisposed to disease lived longer and healthier lives after receiving injections of the human cells, researchers claim.
Study questions 'cancer stem cell' hypothesis in breast cancer
Source: Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Date: March 12, 2007
Summary:
A Dana-Farber Cancer Institute study challenges the hypothesis that "cancer stem cells" – a small number of self-renewing cells within a tumor – are responsible for breast cancer progression and recurrence, and that wiping out these cells alone could cure the disease.
Date: March 12, 2007
Summary:
A Dana-Farber Cancer Institute study challenges the hypothesis that "cancer stem cells" – a small number of self-renewing cells within a tumor – are responsible for breast cancer progression and recurrence, and that wiping out these cells alone could cure the disease.
Human stem cells stalled brain disease in mice: Researchers believe booster shots of embryonic cells could protect neurons
Source: Reuters
Posted: March 12, 2007 11:58 a.m. PT
Summary:
Human stem cells taken from both embryos and fetuses delayed a fatal brain and nerve disease in mice, moving throughout the brain to replace the function lost as a result damaged neurons, scientists report. They said their study, published in the journal Nature Medicine, represents the first time a human embryonic stem cell has successfully treated a disease in an animal. Dr. Evan Snyder of the Burnham Institute for Medical Research in La Jolla, California, who led the study, says his team hopes to move quickly to test their method in children with a fatal and incurable brain disease called Sandhoff disease.
Posted: March 12, 2007 11:58 a.m. PT
Summary:
Human stem cells taken from both embryos and fetuses delayed a fatal brain and nerve disease in mice, moving throughout the brain to replace the function lost as a result damaged neurons, scientists report. They said their study, published in the journal Nature Medicine, represents the first time a human embryonic stem cell has successfully treated a disease in an animal. Dr. Evan Snyder of the Burnham Institute for Medical Research in La Jolla, California, who led the study, says his team hopes to move quickly to test their method in children with a fatal and incurable brain disease called Sandhoff disease.
UW Launches Study Testing Adult Stem Cells for Repair of Heart Damage
Source: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Date: March 12, 2007
Summary:
The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health is among the first medical centers in the country taking part in a novel clinical trial investigating if a subject’s own stem cells can treat a form of severe coronary artery disease. This trial is the first human Phase II adult stem cell therapy study in the U.S. Its goal is to investigate the efficacy, tolerability, and safety of blood-derived selected stem cells to improve symptoms and clinical outcomes in patients with chronic myocardial ischemia (CMI), a severe form of coronary artery disease.
Date: March 12, 2007
Summary:
The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health is among the first medical centers in the country taking part in a novel clinical trial investigating if a subject’s own stem cells can treat a form of severe coronary artery disease. This trial is the first human Phase II adult stem cell therapy study in the U.S. Its goal is to investigate the efficacy, tolerability, and safety of blood-derived selected stem cells to improve symptoms and clinical outcomes in patients with chronic myocardial ischemia (CMI), a severe form of coronary artery disease.
Queen Mary Company Develops a New Approach to Nerve Repair
Source: Queen Mary, University of London
Date: March 12, 2007
Summary:
A new company, Neurotex Ltd, has been established to develop novel silk-based materials that have the potential to provide a new generation of nerve repair materials and treatments.
Date: March 12, 2007
Summary:
A new company, Neurotex Ltd, has been established to develop novel silk-based materials that have the potential to provide a new generation of nerve repair materials and treatments.
Promising results in stem cell research: Study yields helpful disease treatments
Source: Newark Star-Ledger
Date: March 12, 2007
Summary:
An international team of scientists, headed by Evan Snyder, a physician-scientist at the Burnham Institute in California, have come up with what could someday be one of the first workable treatments using embryonic stem cells to thwart a disease. Snyder, along with colleagues at Burnham and the University of Oxford in England, studied mice with a mutation that impedes the normal processing of fatty proteins for brain development. The mice develop Sandhoff disease, a fatal neurodegenerative disorder closely related to Tay-Sachs disease and part of a larger class of brain diseases like Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and autism. The scientists compared the effectiveness of embryonic stem cells versus the "adult" variety and found them to be equally effective.
Date: March 12, 2007
Summary:
An international team of scientists, headed by Evan Snyder, a physician-scientist at the Burnham Institute in California, have come up with what could someday be one of the first workable treatments using embryonic stem cells to thwart a disease. Snyder, along with colleagues at Burnham and the University of Oxford in England, studied mice with a mutation that impedes the normal processing of fatty proteins for brain development. The mice develop Sandhoff disease, a fatal neurodegenerative disorder closely related to Tay-Sachs disease and part of a larger class of brain diseases like Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and autism. The scientists compared the effectiveness of embryonic stem cells versus the "adult" variety and found them to be equally effective.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
A test in self-help: As part of a clinical trial, a Wisconsin man's own stem cells are being used to treated his chronic chest pain
Source: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Date: March 11, 2007
Summary:
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports on a novel stem cell clinical trial using patients' own cells to treat their heart disease:
"Doctors at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics harvested adult stem cells from a patent's bone marrow so they could be injected into blood-deprived areas of his heart. The hope is that the cells will stimulate the formation of new blood vessels or the expansion of existing ones, restoring blood flow. The experiment could help overturn a dismal dogma that has pervaded the field of cardiology for decades: We are born with all the heart cells we will ever have, and if some die, they can't be replaced."
Date: March 11, 2007
Summary:
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports on a novel stem cell clinical trial using patients' own cells to treat their heart disease:
"Doctors at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics harvested adult stem cells from a patent's bone marrow so they could be injected into blood-deprived areas of his heart. The hope is that the cells will stimulate the formation of new blood vessels or the expansion of existing ones, restoring blood flow. The experiment could help overturn a dismal dogma that has pervaded the field of cardiology for decades: We are born with all the heart cells we will ever have, and if some die, they can't be replaced."
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Are Long-Term Tissue Residents
Source: Journal of Clinical Investigation
Date: March 8, 2007 - Posted on Medical News Today 11 March 2007
Summary:
In a study that appears online in advance of publication in the April print issue of the Journal of Clinical Investigation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor researchers show that in transplanted human lungs there is a tissue-resident population of mesenchymal (blood) stem cells (MSCs). Cells that expressed the cell surface molecules known to characterize MSCs and that were able to generate various connective tissue cells were isolated from transplanted human lungs.
Date: March 8, 2007 - Posted on Medical News Today 11 March 2007
Summary:
In a study that appears online in advance of publication in the April print issue of the Journal of Clinical Investigation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor researchers show that in transplanted human lungs there is a tissue-resident population of mesenchymal (blood) stem cells (MSCs). Cells that expressed the cell surface molecules known to characterize MSCs and that were able to generate various connective tissue cells were isolated from transplanted human lungs.
Stem cells act through multiple mechanisms to benefit mice with neurodegenerative disease
Source: Burnham Institute
Date: March 11, 2007
Summary:
Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) hold great promise for benefiting degenerative diseases, and do so by invoking multiple mechanisms. Such cells can be grown in a manner compatible with clinical use (i.e., without animal feeder layers) and even without the need for immunosuppression.
Date: March 11, 2007
Summary:
Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) hold great promise for benefiting degenerative diseases, and do so by invoking multiple mechanisms. Such cells can be grown in a manner compatible with clinical use (i.e., without animal feeder layers) and even without the need for immunosuppression.
Fountain Of Youth: Molecular Switch Holds Key To Reserve Supply Of Muscle Stem Cells
Source: Max Delbrueck Centre for Molecular Medicine
Article Date: March 11, 2007 - 0:00 PDT
Summary:
After injury, even adult muscles can heal very well because they have a reserve supply of muscle stem cells, called satellite cells, which they can utilize for repair. Until now, it was unclear how this supply of satellite and muscle progenitor cells, out of which both muscle cells as well as satellite cells develop, keeps itself “fresh”. Developmental biologists Professor Carmen Birchmeier, Dr. Elena Vasyutina, and Diana Lenhard of the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) Berlin-Buch, Germany, have now demonstrated that a molecular switch, abbreviated RBP-J, regulates this “fountain of youth”.
Article Date: March 11, 2007 - 0:00 PDT
Summary:
After injury, even adult muscles can heal very well because they have a reserve supply of muscle stem cells, called satellite cells, which they can utilize for repair. Until now, it was unclear how this supply of satellite and muscle progenitor cells, out of which both muscle cells as well as satellite cells develop, keeps itself “fresh”. Developmental biologists Professor Carmen Birchmeier, Dr. Elena Vasyutina, and Diana Lenhard of the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) Berlin-Buch, Germany, have now demonstrated that a molecular switch, abbreviated RBP-J, regulates this “fountain of youth”.
Study: Human embryonic cell therapy feasible
Source: North County Times
Posted: March 11, 2007 2:23 PM PDT
Summary:
Embryonic stem cell therapy is now safe and effective enough to test in human clinical trials, according to a major new study by scientists at the Burnham Institute for Medical Research. But "adult" stem cells, taken from non-embryonic sources, were found to be just as effective. This research gives direct evidence that embryonic stem cell therapy is feasible. It also indicates that -- in this instance at least -- embryonic and adult stem cells may be interchangeable.
Posted: March 11, 2007 2:23 PM PDT
Summary:
Embryonic stem cell therapy is now safe and effective enough to test in human clinical trials, according to a major new study by scientists at the Burnham Institute for Medical Research. But "adult" stem cells, taken from non-embryonic sources, were found to be just as effective. This research gives direct evidence that embryonic stem cell therapy is feasible. It also indicates that -- in this instance at least -- embryonic and adult stem cells may be interchangeable.
Friday, March 09, 2007
Successful Islet Cell Transplant Without Immunosuppressive Therapy in Mice with Type 1 Diabetes
Source: Weill Cornell Medical College
Posted: March 9, 2007, 16:35 ET
Summary:
Scientists at Weill Cornell Medical College may have reached a breakthrough in the search for a lasting cure for type 1 diabetes. Reporting in the Feb. 20 issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the team greatly boosted the number of immune T-cells able to shield transplanted pancreatic islet cells from attack by the immune system. Insulin-producing islet cells are deficient in type 1 diabetes.
Posted: March 9, 2007, 16:35 ET
Summary:
Scientists at Weill Cornell Medical College may have reached a breakthrough in the search for a lasting cure for type 1 diabetes. Reporting in the Feb. 20 issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the team greatly boosted the number of immune T-cells able to shield transplanted pancreatic islet cells from attack by the immune system. Insulin-producing islet cells are deficient in type 1 diabetes.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Cannibalistic Signals Help Mammalian Embryos Develop Normally
Source: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Date: March 8, 2007
Summary:
A cannibalistic process called autophagy spurs dying embryonic stem cells to send “eat me” and “come get me” signals to have their corpses purged, a last gasp that paves the way for normal mammalian development, UT Southwestern Medical Center researchers have found. Dr. Beth Levine, professor of internal medicine and microbiology and chief of the division of infectious diseases at UT Southwestern and the study’s senior author, says her team's findings also suggest that defects in autophagy might trigger autoimmune diseases and spur inflammation in human conditions with cell death, such as neurodegenerative diseases or chemotherapy-treatment of cancer. If so, reversing the defects could potentially help treat such diseases.
Date: March 8, 2007
Summary:
A cannibalistic process called autophagy spurs dying embryonic stem cells to send “eat me” and “come get me” signals to have their corpses purged, a last gasp that paves the way for normal mammalian development, UT Southwestern Medical Center researchers have found. Dr. Beth Levine, professor of internal medicine and microbiology and chief of the division of infectious diseases at UT Southwestern and the study’s senior author, says her team's findings also suggest that defects in autophagy might trigger autoimmune diseases and spur inflammation in human conditions with cell death, such as neurodegenerative diseases or chemotherapy-treatment of cancer. If so, reversing the defects could potentially help treat such diseases.
Type of stem cell found to reside in transplanted lungs
Source: University of Michigan Health System
Date: March 8, 2007
Summary:
A new study involving a type of stem cells from the lungs of transplant patients demonstrates for the first time that these progenitor cells reside in adult organs and are not derived from bone marrow, which leads to the possibility that the cells may be able to help with the rejection of donated organs and with various kinds of lung disease.
Date: March 8, 2007
Summary:
A new study involving a type of stem cells from the lungs of transplant patients demonstrates for the first time that these progenitor cells reside in adult organs and are not derived from bone marrow, which leads to the possibility that the cells may be able to help with the rejection of donated organs and with various kinds of lung disease.
Scientists plan China, HK, Taiwan stem cell trial
Source: Reuters
Posted: March 8, 2007 3:24am ET
Summary:
Scientists are preparing for a large clinical trial in 2008 which aims to use stem cells to help 400 patients with spinal cord injuries in Hong Kong, mainland China and Taiwan grow new cells and nerve fibers. Stem cells from umbilical cord blood will be injected into the spinal cords of the participants, who will also be given lithium to help stimulate cell regeneration, said Wise Young, a leading neuroscientist and spinal cord injury researcher.
Posted: March 8, 2007 3:24am ET
Summary:
Scientists are preparing for a large clinical trial in 2008 which aims to use stem cells to help 400 patients with spinal cord injuries in Hong Kong, mainland China and Taiwan grow new cells and nerve fibers. Stem cells from umbilical cord blood will be injected into the spinal cords of the participants, who will also be given lithium to help stimulate cell regeneration, said Wise Young, a leading neuroscientist and spinal cord injury researcher.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Sight for Sore Eyes: Progress in cell transplants to heal damaged retinas
Source: Scientific American
March 2007 issue
Summary:
Scientists at the biotechnology firm Advanced Cell Technology in Worcester, Mass., have generated a more abundant source of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. In 2004 they devised a way to coax embryonic stem cells to turn into transplantable RPE tissue. In a follow-up experiment, they injected the transformed cells into the eyes of rats that had a photoreceptor-killing genetic defect in their RPE cells. Other scientist believe these findings have suggested the development stages at which to transplant cells.
March 2007 issue
Summary:
Scientists at the biotechnology firm Advanced Cell Technology in Worcester, Mass., have generated a more abundant source of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. In 2004 they devised a way to coax embryonic stem cells to turn into transplantable RPE tissue. In a follow-up experiment, they injected the transformed cells into the eyes of rats that had a photoreceptor-killing genetic defect in their RPE cells. Other scientist believe these findings have suggested the development stages at which to transplant cells.
Healing Bone with Stem Cells: New techniques to boost survival of adult stem cells could improve surgeries for severe fractures.
Source: Technology Review
Date: March 7, 2007
Summary:
MIT researchers have created a new tissue-engineering material that could help cells survive the harsh transplant environment--a key step in cell-transplant therapies. Scientists are now testing the material in animals to see how well it can help heal fractures.
Date: March 7, 2007
Summary:
MIT researchers have created a new tissue-engineering material that could help cells survive the harsh transplant environment--a key step in cell-transplant therapies. Scientists are now testing the material in animals to see how well it can help heal fractures.
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Researchers discover gene essential to cerebellum formation
Source: Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB)
Date: March 6, 2007
Summary:
Scientists have identified a molecular switch that causes the differentiation of neurons in the cerebellum, a part of the brain that helps to regulate motor functions. A study published this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences provides new information on the origin of different cells in the cerebellum, an important component of the central nervous system found in all vertebrates, including humans, and the part of the brain that controls movement.
Date: March 6, 2007
Summary:
Scientists have identified a molecular switch that causes the differentiation of neurons in the cerebellum, a part of the brain that helps to regulate motor functions. A study published this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences provides new information on the origin of different cells in the cerebellum, an important component of the central nervous system found in all vertebrates, including humans, and the part of the brain that controls movement.
Monday, March 05, 2007
Advanced Cell Technology's Ability to Rescue Vision in Blind Rats Noted in Scientific American
Source: Advanced Cell Technology, Inc. - Alameda, CA
Date: March 5, 2007
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology, Inc.’s (OTCBB: ACTC) ability to rescue vision in blind rats was noted in Scientific American’s March 2007 issue as the lead story of its News Scan section. The full text of the article notes Advanced Cell’s ability to “coax embryonic stem cells to turn into transplantable retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) tissue.”
Date: March 5, 2007
Summary:
Advanced Cell Technology, Inc.’s (OTCBB: ACTC) ability to rescue vision in blind rats was noted in Scientific American’s March 2007 issue as the lead story of its News Scan section. The full text of the article notes Advanced Cell’s ability to “coax embryonic stem cells to turn into transplantable retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) tissue.”
Stemagen and UPenn Partner to Advance the Therapeutic Use of New and Unique Type of Human Embryonic Stem Cell
Source: Stemagen
Date: March 5, 2007
Summary:
Stemagen announced today it has acquired the exclusive rights to a patent for a groundbreaking technique that allows the development of embryonic stem cells appearing to have a markedly enhanced potential for therapeutic use -- uniparental embryonic stem cells. Because these extraordinary stem cells are created without fertilization they may represent an acceptable alternative for those who oppose the traditional method that requires the use of embryos that are potentially capable of reproduction.
Date: March 5, 2007
Summary:
Stemagen announced today it has acquired the exclusive rights to a patent for a groundbreaking technique that allows the development of embryonic stem cells appearing to have a markedly enhanced potential for therapeutic use -- uniparental embryonic stem cells. Because these extraordinary stem cells are created without fertilization they may represent an acceptable alternative for those who oppose the traditional method that requires the use of embryos that are potentially capable of reproduction.
Researchers Discover New Mechanism That Regulates Stem Cell Division
Source: Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB)
Date: March 5, 2007
Summary:
Errors in stem cell division can give rise to tumours. By studying stem cells in the fruit fly, scientists at the Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona) have identified one of the mechanisms that govern how these cells divide. The study appears this week in the scientific journal Developmental Cell.
Date: March 5, 2007
Summary:
Errors in stem cell division can give rise to tumours. By studying stem cells in the fruit fly, scientists at the Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona) have identified one of the mechanisms that govern how these cells divide. The study appears this week in the scientific journal Developmental Cell.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Revimmune Uses An Approved Drug In A New Patent-Pending Method To Eliminate Autoimmunity
Source: Accentia Biopharmaceuticals, Inc.
Article Date: 03 March 2007 - 10:00 PST
Summary:
In clinical studies for the lead indication of multiple sclerosis (MS), Revimmune--a patent-pending pharmaceutical treatment in late-stage development for a variety of autoimmune diseases--improves function in most patients and stops progression in over 90% of cases refractory to standard therapies. Developed by researchers at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Revimmune works by temporarily eliminating peripheral immune cells, including the immune cells causing the autoimmunity, while selectively sparing the stem cells in the bone marrow.
Article Date: 03 March 2007 - 10:00 PST
Summary:
In clinical studies for the lead indication of multiple sclerosis (MS), Revimmune--a patent-pending pharmaceutical treatment in late-stage development for a variety of autoimmune diseases--improves function in most patients and stops progression in over 90% of cases refractory to standard therapies. Developed by researchers at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Revimmune works by temporarily eliminating peripheral immune cells, including the immune cells causing the autoimmunity, while selectively sparing the stem cells in the bone marrow.
Friday, March 02, 2007
Deconstructing Brain Wiring, One Neuron at a Time
Source: Salk Institute
Date: March 2, 2007
Summary:
Researchers have long said they won’t be able to understand the brain until they can put together a “wiring diagram” – a map of how billions of neurons are interconnected. Now, researchers at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies have jumped what many believe to be a major hurdle to preparing that chart: identifying all of the connections to a single neuron.
Date: March 2, 2007
Summary:
Researchers have long said they won’t be able to understand the brain until they can put together a “wiring diagram” – a map of how billions of neurons are interconnected. Now, researchers at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies have jumped what many believe to be a major hurdle to preparing that chart: identifying all of the connections to a single neuron.
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Gene Helps Guide Embryonic Heart Formation: Discovery could advance cardiac stem cell research, scientists say
Source: HealthDay News
Date: March 1, 2007
Summary:
A gene called Sox17 plays a critical role in the development of embryonic stem cells into beating heart muscle cells, U.S. researchers report. The finding may help in efforts to use embryonic stem cells to generate heart muscle in order to repair damage caused by heart attacks and chronic heart failure.
Date: March 1, 2007
Summary:
A gene called Sox17 plays a critical role in the development of embryonic stem cells into beating heart muscle cells, U.S. researchers report. The finding may help in efforts to use embryonic stem cells to generate heart muscle in order to repair damage caused by heart attacks and chronic heart failure.
Treating male infertility with stem cells
Source: American Journal of Pathology
Date: March 1, 2007
Summary:
New research has examined the usefulness of bone marrow stem cells for treating male infertility, with promising results. The related report by Lue et al, “Fate of bone marrow stem cells transplanted into the testis: potential implication for men with testicular failure,” appears in the March issue of The American Journal of Pathology.
Date: March 1, 2007
Summary:
New research has examined the usefulness of bone marrow stem cells for treating male infertility, with promising results. The related report by Lue et al, “Fate of bone marrow stem cells transplanted into the testis: potential implication for men with testicular failure,” appears in the March issue of The American Journal of Pathology.
Making Daughters Different: Penn Study Shows How Immune Cells Take Divergent Paths When Fighting Infections
Source: University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine
Date: March 1, 2007
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered that immune cells can differ in their inheritance of molecules that regulate cell fate, and therefore what role they play in fighting infection. The research appears this week in an early online issue of Science. The leader researcher in the study believes the findings will change the way researchers study how vaccines work, and that the results may one day be applied to a more targeted approach to developing vaccines and generating the variety of immune cells that are needed to fight off infections.
Date: March 1, 2007
Summary:
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered that immune cells can differ in their inheritance of molecules that regulate cell fate, and therefore what role they play in fighting infection. The research appears this week in an early online issue of Science. The leader researcher in the study believes the findings will change the way researchers study how vaccines work, and that the results may one day be applied to a more targeted approach to developing vaccines and generating the variety of immune cells that are needed to fight off infections.
Skin cell find offers cancer clue
Source: BBC News
Posted: 1 March 2007, 00:14 GMT
Summary:
A discovery by Cambridge scientists about the way our skin cells are constantly renewed could shed light on the development of dangerous cancers. The find, detailed in Nature, could help reveal why some cells can become cancerous and cause tumours. However, it does not yet translate into new cancer treatments, experts say.
Posted: 1 March 2007, 00:14 GMT
Summary:
A discovery by Cambridge scientists about the way our skin cells are constantly renewed could shed light on the development of dangerous cancers. The find, detailed in Nature, could help reveal why some cells can become cancerous and cause tumours. However, it does not yet translate into new cancer treatments, experts say.
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