Using an RNA viral vector, researchers from the University of California, San Francisco have created induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) from blood cells which they say can be easily differentiated into haematopoietic stem and progenitor cells.
Scientists from the UK and China have created induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells from adult cells using synthetic transcription factors created in the laboratory. They claim the method is safer and more accurate than other means of creating iPSCs.
Japanese researchers have shown that it is possible to create a vascularised and functional human liver from human induced pluripotent stem cells – a finding that has implications both for organ regeneration and the testing of new drugs for toxicity.
Cardio3 BioSciences SA of Belgium said that its previously announced initial public offering of shares will commence on 21 June and end on 3 July. The indicative price range of the shares is between €16.65 per share and €19.00 per share.
Using a unique carbon-dating technique, an international research team has reported that human adults generate about 700 new neurons in each half of their brains per day, and that this capacity declines only modestly with age.
The ReNeuron Group Plc said it expects to seek final regulatory and ethical approvals in early July to start a Phase 2 study of its stem cell treatment for patients disabled by a stroke.
Advocates of stem-cell research have applauded the recent report that US scientists have successfully reprogrammed human skin cells to become embryonic stem cells capable of transforming into any other cell type in the body.
Cardio3 BioSciences SA, which has an autologous cell therapy for patients with chronic heart failure in the clinic, has raised €19 million in a private placement with existing investors to finance the clinical development of its lead product.
Researchers at Harvard University have reported the discovery of a hormone, betatrophin, that appears to control the proliferation of beta cells, which are essential in the storage and release of insulin in the human body.
Tissue Regenix Plc of the UK said that a trial of its skin graft in patients with chronic leg ulcers healed wounds in more than half of the patients tested. The trial results are being presented this week at the Symposium on Advanced Wound Care in the US.