A growing set of downloadable, mix-and-match stem cell resources and activities suitable for a variety of educational settings. All components have been extensively tested, and come with full instructions.
Available in several European languages.
When scientists speak up for science, it can be a powerful thing indeed. We regularly observe this - in the direct interactions between scientists and school pupils or patient groups, for example, that are part of our public engagement and outreach work - but it also applies on the wider political stage.
The unseen world: Insulin-producing cells made from human embryonic stem cells
Two recent studies have revealed for the first time how to to generate insulin producing cells, that resemble normal beta cells, in the lab from human pluripotent stem cells. This provides a step forward for a potential cell therapy treatment for diabetes. But how alike are these cells to the beta cells found in our bodies? How close are we to testing these cells in diabetics? And what other questions still remain? In this commentary, Henrik Semb tackles these questions providing perspective in this complex and challenging field.
SummaryNumerous clinical trials have attempted to test the benefits of using a patient’s own stem cells (taken from the bone marrow) to treat heart disease. Results have been conflicting; some claim significant improvements in heart function, whilst others report none at all. A group at Imperial College London investigated the possible reasons for this inconsistency and found strange, unexplained discrepancies within reports of many of the clinical trials. They have identified a link between claimed success rates and discrepancies, casting doubts over the validity of this treatment.
- 133 reports of 49 clinical trials were investigated
- 600+ discrepancies were found
- Discrepancies ranged from minor to serious mistakes and misrepresentation of data
- Reports with the most discrepancies claimed most benefit to patients, while those without discrepancies showed no improvement in patients’ conditions
The Centre for Cell Manufacturing Ireland (CCMI) is set to launch today at the Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI), National University of Ireland, Galway. It is the first facility in Ireland to receive a licence from the Irish Medicines Board to manufacture expanded stem cells for human use, and one of only five of its kind in Europe.
The scale of the medical challenges that an ageing population poses for healthcare in the future will require radical solutions; harnessing the potential of stem cells represents a promising strategy. On 12 November members of the public gathered at King’s College London to discuss issues surrounding stem cell research and how their clinical translation may be realised.
