StemCell Therapy

MARLBOROUGH, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Advanced Cell Technology, Inc. (ACT; OTCBB: ACTC), a leader in the field of regenerative medicine, announced today that the Data and Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB), an independent group of medical experts closely monitoring the companys three ongoing clinical trials, has authorized the company to move forward with enrollment and treatment of additional patients in its clinical trial for dry age-related macular degeneration (dry AMD). ACT will proceed with patient screening and enrollment for the second cohort, who, in keeping with trial protocol, will be injected with 100,000 retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), as compared with the 50,000-cell dose used in the first cohort.

DSMB authorization to move to the higher dosage of cells in our clinical trial for dry AMD represents a significant milestone for our clinical programs, commented Gary Rabin, chairman and CEO of ACT. Our RPE program is now advancing rapidly, as we are now screening at multiple ophthalmological centers for the fourth surgery in both our dry AMD trial and our U.S. SMD trial, with our E.U. SMD trial, which was initiated much later, not far behind.

The trial is a prospective, open-label study, designed to determine the safety and tolerability of hESC-derived RPE cells following sub-retinal transplantation into patients with dry AMD at 12 months, the studys primary endpoint. The three procedures comprising the first cohort of patients were all conducted at University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA), by Steven Schwartz, M.D., Ahmanson Professor of Ophthalmology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and retina division chief at UCLA's Jules Stein Eye Institute. It was announced in May that Mass Eye and Ear is an additional site for the trial.

Mr. Rabin added, Dry AMD represents one of the largest unmet ophthalmological needs in the world, with a potential market of $25 billion in the U.S. and Europe, alone, and this DSMB approval is a big step toward being able to potentially address that massive medical need.

ACT is conducting a total of three clinical trials in the U.S. and Europe using hESC-derived RPE cells to treat forms of macular degeneration. Each trial will enroll a total of 12 patients, with cohorts of three patients each in an ascending dosage format. Treatment of the final patient of the first cohort in the companys dry AMD trial was announced on April 20. On June 29, the second SMD patient enrolled in the Companys E.U. clinical trial was treated at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, U.K., and on April 24 the company announced DSMB approval to treat the second patient cohort in its U.S. SMD trial.

Further information about patient eligibility for ACTs dry AMD study and the companys concurrent SMD studies in the U.S. and E.U. is available at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov, with the following Identifiers: NCT01344993 (dry AMD), NCT01345006 (U.S. SMD), and NCT01469832 (E.U. SMD).

About Advanced Cell Technology, Inc.

Advanced Cell Technology, Inc., is a biotechnology company applying cellular technology in the field of regenerative medicine. For more information, visit http://www.advancedcell.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

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ACT Secures Approval to Proceed with Increased RPE Dosage for Patients in Clinical Trial for Dry AMD

Public release date: 6-Jul-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Brianna Deane bdeane@dentistry.ucla.edu 310-206-0835 University of California - Los Angeles

The ability to control whether certain stem cells ultimately become bone cells holds great promise for regenerative medicine and potential therapies aimed at treating metabolic bone diseases.

Now, UCLA School of Dentistry professor and leading cancer scientist Dr. Cun-Yu Wang and his research team have made a significant breakthrough in that direction. The scientists have discovered two key epigenetic regulating genes that govern the cell-fate determination of human bone marrow stem cells.

Wang's new research is featured on the cover of the July 6 issue of Cell Stem Cell, the affiliated journal of the International Society for Stem Cell Research.

The groundbreaking study grew out of Wang's desire to better understand the epigenetic regulation of stem cell differentiation, in which the structure of genes is modified while the sequence of the DNA is not. He and his team found that KDM4B and KDM6B, two gene-activating enzymes, can promote stem cells' differentiation into bone cells by removing methyl markers from histone proteins. This process occurs through the activation of certain genes favoring a commitment to one lineage and the concurrent deactivation of genes favoring other lineages.

The findings imply that chemical manipulation of these gene-activating enzymes may allow stem cells to differentiate specifically into bone cells, while inhibiting their differentiation into fat cells. The group's research could pave the way toward identifying potential therapeutic targets for stem cellmediated regenerative medicine, as well as the treatment of bone disorders like osteoporosis, the most common type of metabolic bone disease.

"Through our recent discoveries on the lineage decisions of human bone marrow stem cells, we may be more effective in utilizing these stem cells for regenerative medicine for bone diseases such as osteoporosis, as well as for bone reconstruction," Wang said. "However, while we know certain genes must be turned on in order for the cells to become bone-forming cells, as opposed to fat cells, we have only a few clues as to how those genes are switched on."

The research group, through its study of aging mice, found that the two enzymes KDM4B and KDM6B could specifically activate genes that promote stem cell differentiation toward bone, while blocking the route toward fat.

"Interestingly, in our aged mice, as well as osteoporotic mice, we observed a higher amount of silencing histone methyl groups which were normally removed by the enzymes KDM4B and KDM6B in young and healthier mice," Wang said. "And since these enzymes can be easily modified chemically, they may become potential therapeutic targets in tissue regeneration and treatment for osteoporosis."

Original post:
UCLA researcher discovers epigenetic links in cell-fate decisions of adult stem cells

MARLBOROUGH, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Advanced Cell Technology, Inc. (ACT; OTCBB: ACTC), a leader in the field of regenerative medicine, today announced treatment of the second patient in its Phase 1/2 clinical trial for Stargardts macular dystrophy (SMD) using retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). The surgery was performed on Friday, June 29 at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, the same site as the first patient treatment in January, by a team of surgeons led by Professor James Bainbridge, consultant surgeon at Moorfields and Chair of Retinal Studies at University College London. The procedure was successfully performed without any complications. ACT and Moorfields Eye Hospital recently received clearance from the Data and Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) to treat the final two patients in the first cohort of this clinical trial.

We are very pleased to continue our forward momentum with both our U.S. trials and our European trial, commented Gary Rabin, chairman and CEO. It was less than a month ago that we received DSMB approval to treat the second and third patients in our E.U. trial, and it is very gratifying to have already completed dosing of the second. It is a pleasure to be working with Professor Bainbridge and the rest of his team at Moorfields Eye Hospital, and we continue to be encouraged by the steady progress of the trial thus far.

The Phase 1/2 trial is designed to determine the safety and tolerability of hESC-derived RPE cells following sub-retinal transplantation in patients with SMD at 12 months, the studys primary endpoint. It will involve a total of 12 patients, with cohorts of three patients each in an ascending dosage format. It is similar in design to the U.S. trial for SMD that was initiated in July 2011.

The European Medicines Agency's (EMA) Committee for Orphan Medicinal Products (COMP) has officially designated ACT's human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells as an orphan medicinal product for the treatment of Stargardt's Macular Dystrophy (SMD).

More information on the status of the companys clinical trials will be posted today on Mr. Rabins Chairmans blog.

About Stargardts Disease Stargardts disease or Stargardts Macular Dystrophy is a genetic disease that causes progressive vision loss, usually starting in children between 10 to 20 years of age. Eventually, blindness results from photoreceptor loss associated with degeneration in the pigmented layer of the retina, called the retinal pigment epithelium, which is the site of damage that the company believes the hESC-derived RPE may be able to target for repair after administration.

About Advanced Cell Technology, Inc. Advanced Cell Technology, Inc. is a biotechnology company applying cellular technology in the field of regenerative medicine. For more information, visit http://www.advancedcell.com.

Forward-Looking Statements Statements in this news release regarding future financial and operating results, future growth in research and development programs, potential applications of our technology, opportunities for the company and any other statements about the future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans, or prospects expressed by management constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statements that are not statements of historical fact (including statements containing the words will, believes, plans, anticipates, expects, estimates, and similar expressions) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. There are a number of important factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements, including: limited operating history, need for future capital, risks inherent in the development and commercialization of potential products, protection of our intellectual property, and economic conditions generally. Additional information on potential factors that could affect our results and other risks and uncertainties are detailed from time to time in the companys periodic reports, including the report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, opinions, and expectations of the companys management at the time they are made, and the company does not assume any obligation to update its forward-looking statements if those beliefs, opinions, expectations, or other circumstances should change. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, opinions, and expectations of the companys management at the time they are made, and the company does not assume any obligation to update its forward-looking statements if those beliefs, opinions, expectations, or other circumstances should change. There can be no assurance that the Companys clinical trials will be successful.

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ACT Announces Second Patient with Stargardt’s Disease Treated in EU Clinical Trial

Harvard Bioscience's "InBreath" Bioreactors Used in World's First Successful Regenerated Laryngotracheal Transplants

First Two Transplants Performed in Government-Approved Clinical Trial in Russia

HOLLISTON, Mass., June 26, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Harvard Bioscience, Inc. (HBIO), a global developer, manufacturer, and marketer of a broad range of tools to advance life science research and regenerative medicine, announces that its "InBreath" bioreactors were used for the world's first and second successful laryngotracheal implants, using synthetic laryngotracheal scaffolds seeded with cells taken from the patients' bone marrow. The surgeries took place at Krasnodar Regional Hospital in Krasnodar, Russia on June 19th and June 21st. The recipients of the implants, Julia T. and Aleksander Z., are recovering well. The implants in the procedures were grown in bioreactors developed by the regenerative medicine device business of Harvard Bioscience.

The transplants, which required more than a half-year of preparation, were performed on the first two patients enrolled in an ongoing clinical trial at Krasnodar Regional Hospital. The Russian Ministry of Health has approved a clinical protocol for an unlimited number of patients in this trial, all of which will involve trachea procedures.

Each bioreactor was specifically adapted by Harvard Bioscience to the clinical requirements for each patient. Each bioreactor was loaded with a synthetic scaffold in the shape of the patient's original organ. The scaffolds were then seeded with the patient's own stem cells. Over the course of about two days, the bioreactor promoted proper cell seeding and development. Because the patients' own stem cells were used, their bodies have accepted the transplants without the use of immunosuppressive drugs.

A photo accompanying this release is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=13437

The procedures are the result of a global collaboration involving organizations in the US, Sweden, Russia, Germany, and Italy:

-- The bioreactors were developed, manufactured and prepared by teams at Hugo Sachs Elektronik, a German subsidiary of Harvard Bioscience and at Harvard Bioscience, based in Massachusetts, U.S.A.

-- The scaffolds were created by US-based Nanofiber Solutions.

-- The principal transplant surgeon and main coordinator for both procedures was Dr. Paolo Macchiarini, Professor of Regenerative Surgery at Karolinska Institute in Stockholm.

Originally posted here:
Regenerative medicine pioneer continues changing lives with first successful laryngotracheal implants

HOLLISTON, Mass., June 26, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Harvard Bioscience, Inc. (HBIO), a global developer, manufacturer, and marketer of a broad range of tools to advance life science research and regenerative medicine, announces that its "InBreath" bioreactors were used for the world's first and second successful laryngotracheal implants, using synthetic laryngotracheal scaffolds seeded with cells taken from the patients' bone marrow. The surgeries took place at Krasnodar Regional Hospital in Krasnodar, Russia on June 19th and June 21st. The recipients of the implants, Julia T. and Aleksander Z., are recovering well. The implants in the procedures were grown in bioreactors developed by the regenerative medicine device business of Harvard Bioscience.

The transplants, which required more than a half-year of preparation, were performed on the first two patients enrolled in an ongoing clinical trial at Krasnodar Regional Hospital. The Russian Ministry of Health has approved a clinical protocol for an unlimited number of patients in this trial, all of which will involve trachea procedures.

Each bioreactor was specifically adapted by Harvard Bioscience to the clinical requirements for each patient. Each bioreactor was loaded with a synthetic scaffold in the shape of the patient's original organ. The scaffolds were then seeded with the patient's own stem cells. Over the course of about two days, the bioreactor promoted proper cell seeding and development. Because the patients' own stem cells were used, their bodies have accepted the transplants without the use of immunosuppressive drugs.

A photo accompanying this release is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=13437

The procedures are the result of a global collaboration involving organizations in the US, Sweden, Russia, Germany, and Italy:

-- The bioreactors were developed, manufactured and prepared by teams at Hugo Sachs Elektronik, a German subsidiary of Harvard Bioscience and at Harvard Bioscience, based in Massachusetts, U.S.A.

-- The scaffolds were created by US-based Nanofiber Solutions.

-- The principal transplant surgeon and main coordinator for both procedures was Dr. Paolo Macchiarini, Professor of Regenerative Surgery at Karolinska Institute in Stockholm.

-- Dr. Macchiarini was assisted by a team of surgeons including Dr. Vladimir Porhanov, Chief Doctor of Krasnodar Regional Hospital and head of the Oncological and Thoracic Department of Kuban State Medical University; thoracic surgeons Dr. Igor Polyakov and Dr. Nikolay Naryzhnyi, of Krasnodar Regional Hospital; Dr. Anatoly Zavrazhnov, deputy chief of Krasnodar Regional Hospital; and Dr. Sergey Sitnick, anesthesiologist and head of Krasnodar Regional Hospital's intensive care unit.

-- Dr. Alessandra Bianco at University of Rome, Tor Vergata, performed mechanical testing during scaffold development.

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Photo Release -- Harvard Bioscience's "InBreath" Bioreactors Used in World's First Successful Regenerated ...

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A short and sweet note to point you to a great article on bioreactor technologies related to cell therapy bioprocessing by CTG consultant and Director of Stem Cell-based Drug Discovery, John E. Hambor, who you can now follow on Twitter @StemCellonDrugs.


"Bioreactor Design and Bioprocess Controls for Industrialized Cell Processing" was published in the June issue of BioProcess International.  


The BPI team has made a real and meaningful commitment to representing cell therapy bioprocessing and we applaud them for their contribution to this emerging discipline.




If this is a topic of interest to you, I recommend you also check out a conference being held this Fall by BPI's sister company, IBC LifeSciences, entitled "Cell Therapy BioProcessing" to be held September 11-12 in Arlington, Virginia.

http://www.celltherapyblog.com hosted by http://www.celltherapygroup.com

Source:
http://feeds.feedburner.com/CellTherapyBlog

Tweet




A short and sweet note to point you to a great article on bioreactor technologies related to cell therapy bioprocessing by CTG consultant and Director of Stem Cell-based Drug Discovery, John E. Hambor, who you can now follow on Twitter @StemCellonDrugs.


"Bioreactor Design and Bioprocess Controls for Industrialized Cell Processing" was published in the June issue of BioProcess International.  


The BPI team has made a real and meaningful commitment to representing cell therapy bioprocessing and we applaud them for their contribution to this emerging discipline.




If this is a topic of interest to you, I recommend you also check out a conference being held this Fall by BPI's sister company, IBC LifeSciences, entitled "Cell Therapy BioProcessing" to be held September 11-12 in Arlington, Virginia.

http://www.celltherapyblog.com hosted by http://www.celltherapygroup.com

Source:
http://feeds.feedburner.com/CellTherapyBlog

MARLBOROUGH, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Advanced Cell Technology, Inc. (ACT; OTCBB: ACTC), a leader in the field of regenerative medicine, announced today that the company is presenting at two upcoming conferences: the 2012 Bio International Convention and Clinical Outlooks for Regenerative Medicine meeting, both in Boston, on Tuesday, June 19. The presentations will cover the companys three ongoing clinical trials using human embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelial cells to treat macular degeneration, and other programs.

Gary Rabin, chairman and CEO, will present at the 2012 Bio International Convention on Tuesday, June 19 at 8:15 a.m. EDT, at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center.

Matthew Vincent, Ph.D., director of business development, will present at the Clinical Outlooks for Regenerative Medicine meeting at 9:15 a.m. EDT on the same date, at the Starr Center, Schepens Eye Research Institute, at 185 Cambridge Street in Boston.

Both presentation slide decks will be available on the conference presentations section of the ACT website.

About Advanced Cell Technology, Inc.

Advanced Cell Technology, Inc., is a biotechnology company applying cellular technology in the field of regenerative medicine. For more information, visit http://www.advancedcell.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this news release regarding future financial and operating results, future growth in research and development programs, potential applications of our technology, opportunities for the company and any other statements about the future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans, or prospects expressed by management constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statements that are not statements of historical fact (including statements containing the words will, believes, plans, anticipates, expects, estimates, and similar expressions) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. There are a number of important factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements, including: limited operating history, need for future capital, risks inherent in the development and commercialization of potential products, protection of our intellectual property, and economic conditions generally. Additional information on potential factors that could affect our results and other risks and uncertainties are detailed from time to time in the companys periodic reports, including the report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, opinions, and expectations of the companys management at the time they are made, and the company does not assume any obligation to update its forward-looking statements if those beliefs, opinions, expectations, or other circumstances should change. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, opinions, and expectations of the companys management at the time they are made, and the company does not assume any obligation to update its forward-looking statements if those beliefs, opinions, expectations, or other circumstances should change. There can be no assurance that the Companys clinical trials will be successful.

Excerpt from:
Advanced Cell Technology to Present at the 2012 Bio International Convention and the Clinical Outlooks for ...

CLEARWATER, FL--(Marketwire -06/08/12)- Biostem U.S., Corporation, (HAIR) (HAIR) (Biostem, the Company), a fully reporting public company in the stem cell regenerative medicine sciences sector, today reported that it has engaged Acropolis Inc. http://www.acropolisinc.com, a full-service advertising agency located in Orlando, Florida, to lend their expertise in brand building, marketing, and advertising development and placement.

Biostem Chief Executive Officer Dwight Brunoehler stated, "After several months of interviewing prospective agencies, we have come to the conclusion that Acropolis is the one to assist us in executing our plans. Their notable work in multiple media areas is impressive, to say the least. Their client list including The University of Florida, Arby's Restaurants, and the City of Orlando, speaks for itself."

Acropolis Principal, Scott Major, said, "This is a great fit for Acropolis. Our entire team loves the Biostem business approach in the incredible field of regenerative medicine. The hair re-growth field in which we will be marketing the Biostem technology is enormous. We are pleased to be a part of Biostem's expansion."

About Biostem U.S. CorporationBiostem U.S., Corporation is a fully reporting Nevada corporation with offices in Clearwater, Florida. Biostem is a technology licensing company with proprietary technology centered on providing hair re-growth using human stem cells. The company also intends to train and license selected physicians to provide Regenerative Cellular Therapy treatments to assist the body's natural approach to healing tendons, ligaments, joints and muscle injuries by using the patient's own stem cells. Biostem U.S., Corporation is seeking to expand its operations worldwide through licensing of its proprietary technology and acquisition of existing stem cell related facilities. The company's goal is to operate in the international biotech market, focusing on the rapidly growing regenerative medicine field, using ethically sourced adult stem cells to improve the quality and longevity of life for all mankind.

For further information, contact Fox Communications Group at 310-974-6821, or view the Biostem website at http://www.biostemus.com.

The rest is here:
Biostem U.S., Corporation Engages Acropolis Agency to Assist in Implementing Its International Marketing Plan

SAN DIEGO, CA--(Marketwire -06/06/12)-

Bio-Matrix Scientific Group (BMSN) (BMSN) announced today that its Regen BioPharma unit has appointed three internationally renowned regenerative medicine experts to its Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). The new SAB members appointed are David White, M.D., PhD; Wei-Ping Min, M.D., PhD and Vlad Bogin, M.D.

Dr. White is a member of the Surgery and Immunology faculty of The Schulic School of Medicine, University of Western Ontario. He is one of the leading experts on using regenerative medicine transplant procedures to treat pancreatic conditions, including diabetes. He is also the Chief Scientific Officer of Sernova Corp and was formerly a Therapeutic Area Head for Novartis. He received the B.Sc. degree from the University of Surrey and the M.D. and PhD degrees from Cambridge University.

Dr. Wei-Ping Min is Professor at the Lawson Health Research Center in Canada. He is inventor of siRNA therapeutics in the area of immunology and cell therapy to inhibit disease modalities. He is also the founder/cofounder of several biotech companies including MedVax Pharma Corp, and ToleroTech Inc. Dr. Min brings detailed scientific and mechanistic expertise to Regen BioPharma. He earned graduate and medical degrees from Nanchang University Medical School and the PhD degree from Kyushu University.

Dr. Bogin is the President and CEO of Cromos Pharma, a contract research organization that specializes in biopharmaceutical clinical outsourcing. He was formerly the Director of Boehringer Ingelheim in charge of the phase IV program for Dabigatran Etexilate. He studied at the Yale University School of Medicine and the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry.

Regen BioPharma has also entered into a Letter of Intent with Clinartis LLC, a global contract research organization (CRO). Clinartis is a full service global CRO serving pharmaceutical, biotech and medical device companies to support Phase I - IV drug and device clinical trials in the US and Europe.

The SAB and Clinartis will assist the Company in its acquisition of intellectual property related to stem cells, translation of the intellectual property into treatments, and optimizing the value of these new therapies.

"The potential of regenerative medicine products is significant," says Christopher Mizer, the President of Regen BioPharma. "We believe that strategic collaborative relationships between Regen BioPharma, our SAB and Clinartis will facilitate our efforts to create value from that potential by developing proprietary, life sciences technologies and demonstrating their clinical utility."

"Our strong SAB has scientific and regulatory expertise, coupled with Clinartis' access to world-class researchers and investigators will be very instrumental for accelerated commercialization of the cutting-edge biotechnology research on which Regen BioPharma is focused," according to Bio-Matrix Scientific Group's Chairman & CEO David Koos.

About Bio-Matrix Scientific Group Inc. and Regen BioPharma, Inc.:

See the article here:
Bio-Matrix' Regen BioPharma Unit Establishes Scientific Advisory Board and Research Relationship With Clinartis in ...

CAMBRIDGE, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Leading stem cell therapeutic and regenerative medicine company, AuxoCell Laboratories, Inc., today announced an agreement with CordVida, a Brazilian stem cell cryopreservation company, which will allow CordVida to expand its services. Families who select CordVida to store umbilical cord blood will now have the opportunity to bank stem cells from an additional source cord tissue. With this agreement, AuxoCell broadens its international reach to South America.

At AuxoCell, we are pleased by the opportunity to provide this groundbreaking technology to families around the globe, said Rouzbeh R. Taghizadeh, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer of AuxoCell Laboratories, Inc. CordVida is Brazils premier cord blood bank and adheres to the highest quality standards. It is for that reason that we have selected them as our exclusive partner in Brazil.

Cord tissue has an abundant source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Currently, there is a significant amount of research underway focused on mesenchymal stem cells extracted from cord tissue. MSCs are rapidly becoming the leading stem cell in regenerative medicine studies, and MSCs from a variety of sources are in use in over 150 clinical trials. The AuxoCell cord tissue technology represents the gold standard in the industry, as its technology prepares stem cells that are ready for immediate use, if needed.

CordVida is excited to be the first company in Brazil to offer storage of multiple kinds of stem cells, says Roberto Waddington, CEO for CordVida. Considering the enormous therapeutic prospects of cord tissue derived MSCs, our clients in the future will now rely on a much wider array of potential therapeutic applications.We are proud that AuxoCell selected CordVidaas its exclusive technology partner for all of Brazil.

Banking umbilical cord tissue stem cells offers clients a chance to reap the benefits of research that is being conducted on MSCs. Additionally, AuxoCells own studies have shown that a combination of cord tissue mesenchymal stem cells derived using AuxoCells validated processing SOPs and hematapoietic stem cells (HSCs) from the cord blood enhances the engraftment of the cord blood HSCs.

About AuxoCell

AuxoCell Laboratories, Inc. (AuxoCell) is a leading stem cell therapeutic and regenerative medicine company located in Massachusetts. AuxoCell's primary research focus is to develop the enormous therapeutic potential of the primitive stem cells found in the Wharton's Jelly of the human umbilical cord. With exclusive patent rights and proprietary processing protocols, AuxoCell is uniquely situated to offer the very best in cord tissue stem cell banking. Through strategic partnerships with both private and public cord blood banks, stem cell centers, and research laboratories around the world, AuxoCell strives every day to bring novel stem cell therapies from the bench to the bedside. Additional information is available through HYPERLINK http://www.auxocell.com or at (617) 610-9000.

About CordVida

Founded in 2004, CordVida is the premier stem cell cryopreservation company in Brazil with 10.000 umbilical cord blood units stored. It is the cord blood bank of choice for key doctors in Brazil. Committed to the highest global quality standards, CordVida has been AABB accredited since 2008. Half of the transplants made in Brazil using private cord blood units have been made with units stored in CordVida.

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AuxoCell Laboratories Licenses Umbilical Cord Tissue Stem Cell Service to Brazil’s CordVida

CLEARWATER, FL--(Marketwire -06/01/12)- Biostem U.S., Corporation (HAIR) (HAIR) (Biostem, the Company), a fully reporting public company in the stem cell regenerative medicine science sector, has made its Scientific and Medical Board of Advisors publications available on the company website, http://www.biostemus.com.

Chief Executive Officer Dwight Brunoehler stated, "The company is very proud of the many contributions its SAMBA members have made, and continue to make, to the medical community. As their publications and credentials show, this is a very prestigious and influential group. Having worked with them in past projects and now at Biostem, I know them all to be active participants in the development and guidance of the company's objectives. Their diversified areas of expertise and backgrounds are already playing a major role in assisting the company as it moves forward into the expanding field of regenerative medicine."

About Biostem U.S., Corporation Biostem U.S., Corporation is a fully reporting Nevada corporation with offices in Clearwater, Florida. Biostem is a technology licensing company with proprietary technology centered on providing hair re-growth using human stem cells. The company also intends to train and license selected physicians to provide Regenerative Cellular Therapy treatments to assist the body's natural approach to healing tendons, ligaments, joints and muscle injuries by using the patient's own stem cells. Biostem U.S., Corporation is seeking to expand its operations worldwide through licensing of its proprietary technology and acquisition of existing stem cell related facilities. The company's goal is to operate in the international biotech market, focusing on the rapidly growing regenerative medicine field, using ethically sourced adult stem cells to improve the quality and longevity of life for all mankind.

More information on Biostem U.S., Corporation can be obtained through http://www.biostemus.com, or by calling Fox Communications Group 310-974-6821.

Excerpt from:
Biostem U.S., Corporation Presents Scientific and Medical Board of Advisors Publications

SUNRISE, Fla., May 29, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bioheart, Inc. (OTCBB:BHRT.OB - News) announced today that it will offer another laboratory training course in partnership with the Ageless Regenerative Institute, an organization dedicated to the standardization of cell regenerative medicine, on Saturday/Sunday June 23-24, 2012. Attendees will participate in hands on, in depth training in laboratory practices in stem cell science at Bioheart, Inc.'s corporate headquarters and clean room in Sunrise, Florida. The course was designed for Laboratory technicians, Students, Physicians and Physician Assistants.

"Attendees will graduate from this one-of-a-kind course with an extensive understanding of stem cell science laboratory practices," said Kristin Comella, Chief Scientific Officer, Bioheart, Inc. "Previous attendees described the course as incredibly well orchestrated providing comprehensive know how for laboratory start up."

An emerging field with tremendous opportunities, adult stem cell research has been shown to regenerate and repair injured or diseased structures via the release of bioactive tissue growth factors and cytokines. This is the second time that The Ageless Regenerative Institute has partnered with Bioheart, Inc. to provide hands-on training in a stem cell laboratory. This course provides instruction regarding how to grow stem cells and perform quality control testing in an actual cGMP facility following FDA regulations.

The course goals and objectives include reviewing stem cell types and characteristics; learning cell culture including plating, trypsinization and harvesting, and cryopreservation; learning quality control tests including cell count, viability, flow cytometry, endotoxin, mycoplasma, sterility; and learning and performing cGMP functions including clean room maintenance, gowning and environmental monitoring.

For information on costs and to register, visit http://www.agelessregen.com or email: info@agelessregen.com.

About Bioheart, Inc.

Bioheart is committed to maintaining its leading position within the cardiovascular sector of the cell technology industry delivering cell therapies and biologics that help address congestive heart failure, lower limb ischemia, chronic heart ischemia, acute myocardial infarctions and other issues. Bioheart's goals are to cause damaged tissue to be regenerated, when possible, and to improve a patient's quality of life and reduce health care costs and hospitalizations.

Specific to biotechnology, Bioheart is focused on the discovery, development and, subject to regulatory approval, commercialization of autologous cell therapies for the treatment of chronic and acute heart damage and peripheral vascular disease. Its leading product, MyoCell, is a clinical muscle-derived cell therapy designed to populate regions of scar tissue within a patient's heart with new living cells for the purpose of improving cardiac function in chronic heart failure patients. For more information on Bioheart, visit http://www.bioheartinc.com.

About Ageless Regenerative Institute, LLC

The Ageless Regenerative Institute (ARI) is an organization dedicated to the standardization of cell regenerative medicine. The Institute promotes the development of evidence-based standards of excellence in the therapeutic use of adipose-derived stem cells through education, advocacy, and research. ARI has a highly experienced management team with experience in setting up full scale cGMP stem cell manufacturing facilities, stem cell product development & enhancement, developing point-of-care cell production systems, developing culture expanded stem cell production systems, FDA compliance, directing clinical & preclinical studies with multiple cell types for multiple indications, and more. ARI has successfully treated hundreds of patients utilizing these cellular therapies demonstrating both safety and efficacy. For more information about regenerative medicine please visit http://www.agelessregen.com.

Excerpt from:
Bioheart and Ageless Regenerative Partner to Advance Stem Cell Field With New Laboratory Training Program on June 23 ...

CLEARWATER, FL--(Marketwire -05/29/12)- Biostem U.S., Corporation, (HAIR.PK) (HAIR.PK) (Biostem, the Company), a fully reporting public company in the stem cell regenerative medicine sciences sector, today announced that Philip A. Lowry, MD, has been appointed as the Chairman of its Scientific and Medical Board of Advisors (SAMBA).

According to Biostem CEO, Dwight Brunoehler, "As Chairman, Dr. Lowry will work with a team drawn from a cross-section of medical specialties. His combination of research, academic and community practice experience make him the perfect individual to coordinate and lead the outstanding group of physicians that makes up our SAMBA. As a group, The SAMBA will guide the company to maintain the highest ethical standards in every effort, while seeking and developing new cutting edge technology based on stem cell use. I am privileged to work with Dr. Lowry, once again."

Dr. Lowry stated, "Dwight is an innovative businessman with an eye on cutting-edge stem cell technology. His history in the industry speaks for itself. I like the plan at Biostem and look forward to working with everyone involved."

Dr. Philip A. Lowry received his undergraduate degree from Harvard College before going on to the Yale University School of Medicine. His completed his internal medicine residency at the University of Virginia then pursued fellowship training in hematology and oncology there as well. During fellowship training and subsequently at the University of Massachusetts, he worked in the laboratory of Dr. Peter Quesenberry working on in vitro and in vivo studies of mouse and human stem cell biology.

Dr. Lowry twice served on the faculty at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center from 1992-1996 and from 2004-2009 as an assistant and then associate clinical professor of medicine establishing the bone marrow/stem cell transplantation program there, serving as medical director of the Cryopreservation Lab supporting the transplant program, helping to develop a cord blood banking program, and teaching and coordinating the second year medical school course in hematology and oncology. Dr. Lowry additionally has ten years experience in the community practice of hematology and oncology. In 2010, Dr. Lowry became chief of hematology/oncology for the Guthrie Health System, a three-hospital tertiary care system serving northern Pennsylvania and southern New York State. He is charged with developing a cutting-edge cancer program that can project into a traditionally rural health care delivery system.

Dr. Lowry has also maintained a career-long interest in regenerative medicine springing from his research and practice experience in stem cell biology. His new role positions him to foster further development of that field. As part of a horizontally and vertically integrated multi-specialty team, he is closely allied with colleagues in cardiology, neurology/neurosurgery, and orthopedics among others with whom he hopes to stimulate the expansion of regenerative techniques.

About Biostem U.S., Corporation

Biostem U.S., Corporation is a fully reporting Nevada corporation with offices in Clearwater, Florida. Biostem is a technology licensing company with proprietary technology centered on providing hair re-growth using human stem cells. The company also intends to train and license selected physicians to provide Regenerative Cellular Therapy treatments to assist the body's natural approach to healing tendons, ligaments, joints and muscle injuries by using the patient's own stem cells. Biostem U.S. is seeking to expand its operations worldwide through licensing of its proprietary technology and acquisition of existing stem cell-related facilities. The company's goal is to operate in the international biotech market, focusing on the rapidly growing regenerative medicine field, using ethically sourced adult stem cells to improve the quality and longevity of life for all mankind.

More information on Biostem U.S., Corporation can be obtained through http://www.biostemus.com, or by calling Fox Communications Group 310-974-6821.

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Biostem U.S., Corporation Appoints Philip A. Lowry, MD as Chairman of Its Scientific and Medical Board of Advisors

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Cell therapies for cardiovascular-related conditions is a closely watched, much studied, oft-discussed, and hotly contested segment of the cell therapy industry.


The data to-date are admittedly confusing.  From a clinical perspective, the studies for which we have data have been relatively small involving a mish-mash of indications, endpoints, eligibility criterion, methods and/or route of administration, as well as the time of administration relative to event or disease progression.


Further compounding any interpretation of the data, from a technical perspective, is the fact the products have been widely varied in terms of being autologous vs allogeneic, expanded and not, genetically modified and not, from a plethora of different sources, and utilizing a wide variety of cell types from skelatal myoblasts, cardiomyocytes, mesenchymal stromal cells, mononuclear cells, etc. 


All this makes it extremely difficult to draw any conclusions with respect to what's working and what's not.  We will not attempt to do so.


All we do below is attempt to give a snapshot of the industry-sponsored cell therapy trials currently ongoing for cardiovascular-related conditions.  So here it is:


Commercial:
Pharmicell's Heartcelligram is the only cell therapy to have received regulatory approval for commercial distribution for the treatment of a cardiac-related indication.  Heartcelligram is an autologous cell therapy approved in 2011 by the Korean Food and Drug Administration (KFDA) for the treatment of Acute Mycardial Infarction (AMI).  The price is reportedly $19,000 and the trial data behind the approval has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal.


Phase III or II/III:
There are currently only 3 active and recruiting cardiac-related, industry-sponsored cell therapy trials.  Interestingly they all involve autologous products, two involve devices, two involve centralized manufacturing, two involve bone marrow cells as a source, two are only in European clinical sites, and two are targeting ischemic-related conditions.

• Baxter Therapeutics' Auto-CD34+ cells
• phase III trial actively recruiting
• Indication:  refractory angina and chronic myocardial ischemia
• Estimated enrollment:  444
• Estimated primary completion: June 2016 
• Cytori
• phase II/III trial actively recruiting
• Indication: ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction
• Estimated enrollment: 360
• Estimated primary completion: July 2014

• Miltenyi Biotec
• phase III trial actively recruiting
• Indication: myocardial ischemia or coronary artery disease
• Estimated enrollment: 142
• Estimated primary completion: July 2012

http://www.celltherapyblog.com hosted by http://www.celltherapygroup.com

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http://feeds.feedburner.com/CellTherapyBlog

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Cell therapies for cardiovascular-related conditions is a closely watched, much studied, oft-discussed, and hotly contested segment of the cell therapy industry.


The data to-date are admittedly confusing.  From a clinical perspective, the studies for which we have data have been relatively small involving a mish-mash of indications, endpoints, eligibility criterion, methods and/or route of administration, as well as the time of administration relative to event or disease progression.


Further compounding any interpretation of the data, from a technical perspective, is the fact the products have been widely varied in terms of being autologous vs allogeneic, expanded and not, genetically modified and not, from a plethora of different sources, and utilizing a wide variety of cell types from skelatal myoblasts, cardiomyocytes, mesenchymal stromal cells, mononuclear cells, etc. 


All this makes it extremely difficult to draw any conclusions with respect to what's working and what's not.  We will not attempt to do so.


All we do below is attempt to give a snapshot of the industry-sponsored cell therapy trials currently ongoing for cardiovascular-related conditions.  So here it is:


Commercial:
Pharmicell's Heartcelligram is the only cell therapy to have received regulatory approval for commercial distribution for the treatment of a cardiac-related indication.  Heartcelligram is an autologous cell therapy approved in 2011 by the Korean Food and Drug Administration (KFDA) for the treatment of Acute Mycardial Infarction (AMI).  The price is reportedly $19,000 and the trial data behind the approval has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal.


Phase III or II/III:
There are currently only 3 active and recruiting cardiac-related, industry-sponsored cell therapy trials.  Interestingly they all involve autologous products, two involve devices, two involve centralized manufacturing, two involve bone marrow cells as a source, two are only in European clinical sites, and two are targeting ischemic-related conditions.

• Baxter Therapeutics' Auto-CD34+ cells
• phase III trial actively recruiting
• Indication:  refractory angina and chronic myocardial ischemia
• Estimated enrollment:  444
• Estimated primary completion: June 2016 
• Cytori
• phase II/III trial actively recruiting
• Indication: ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction
• Estimated enrollment: 360
• Estimated primary completion: July 2014

• Miltenyi Biotec
• phase III trial actively recruiting
• Indication: myocardial ischemia or coronary artery disease
• Estimated enrollment: 142
• Estimated primary completion: July 2012

http://www.celltherapyblog.com hosted by http://www.celltherapygroup.com

Source:
http://feeds.feedburner.com/CellTherapyBlog

SACRAMENTO California's stem cell agency today approved two grants to UC Davis Health System researchers for their innovative work in regenerative medicine.

Kyriacos A. Athanasiou, distinguished professor of orthopaedic surgery and professor and chair of biomedical engineering, and the Child Family Professor of Engineering at UC Davis, is investigating the use of skin-derived stem cells to heal cartilage injuries and debilitating conditions of the knee such as osteoarthritis.

W. Douglas Boyd, professor of surgery, plans to further refine a novel approach to treating cardiovascular injuries suffered during a heart attack by using stem cells and a tissue-like scaffold to repair cardiac damage.

The pair received individual grants totaling approximately $6.6 million from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine's (CIRM) governing board.

Athanasiou's and Boyd's multi-year grants were among the proposals submitted to CIRM for its third round of Early Translational Awards, which are intended to enable clinical therapies to be developed more rapidly.

"Both of these scientists are conducting exciting research that could have far-reaching implications in health care," said Jan Nolta, director of the UC Davis Institute for Regenerative Cures and the university's stem cell program director. "Dr. Athanasiou is bioengineering new cartilage that could have the same physiological integrity as the cartilage a person is born with. Dr. Boyd is developing a treatment that uses a paper-thin patch embedded with stem cells to harness their regenerative powers to repair damaged heart muscle."

Boyd, who's a pioneering cardiothoracic surgeon, pointed out in his CIRM proposal that heart disease is the nation's number-one cause of death and disability. An estimated 16.3 million Americans over the age of 20 suffer from coronary heart disease, which in 2007 accounted for an estimated 1 in 6 deaths in the U.S. Boyd plans to use bone-marrow derived stem cells -- known as mesenchymal stem cells -- in combination with a bioengineered framework known as an extracellular matrix, to regenerate damaged heart tissue, block heart disease and restore cardiac function, something currently not possible except in cases of a complete and very invasive heart transplant.

An expert in biomedical engineering, Athanasiou is focusing on developing a cellular therapy using stem cells created from an individual's own skin -- known as autologous skin-derived stem cells -- which have shown great promise in animal models. He plans to use the new funding to conduct extensive toxicology and durability tests to determine the technique's long-term safety and efficacy. Such tests are among the many steps needed to advance toward human clinical trials.

Cartilage is the slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones in joints, allowing bones to glide over each other and absorbing the shock of movement. Cartilage defects from injuries and lifelong wear and tear can eventually degenerate into osteoarthritis. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and affects an estimated 27 million Americans over the age of 25.

"For anyone suffering from osteoarthritis or other debilitating cartilage conditions, Dr. Athanasiou's goal of using stem cells to regenerate new tissue could have enormous quality-of-life and economic benefits," said Nolta, who is the recipient of a prior translational grant from CIRM to develop potential therapies for Huntington's disease . "Dr. Boyd's work is equally promising because he's using a bioengineered structure to encourage cardiac tissue repair, which could have important benefits in the treatment of heart disease."

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State awards stem cell grants to medical researchers

ROCKVILLE, Md., May 21, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --Neuralstem, Inc. (NYSE MKT: CUR) announced that Richard Garr, CEO and President, will present at the World Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine Congress in London (http://www.terrapinn.com/2012/stemcells/index.stm) on Tuesday, May 22nd at 12:30 PM. Mr. Garr's presentation, "Stem Cell Applications for Neurodegenerative Disorders," will review Neuralstem's cellular therapy trial in ALS, its neurogenic small molecule trial in major depressive disorder (MDD), and provide an overview on plans to expand the cellular therapy program.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20061221/DCTH007LOGO )

About Neuralstem

Neuralstem's patented technology enables the ability to produce neural stem cells of the human brain and spinal cord in commercial quantities, and the ability to control the differentiation of these cells constitutively into mature, physiologically relevant human neurons and glia. Neuralstem is in an FDA-approved Phase I safety clinical trial for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, and has been awarded orphan status designation by the FDA.

In addition to ALS, the company is also targeting major central nervous system conditions with its cell therapy platform, including spinal cord injury, ischemic spastic paraplegia and chronic stroke. The company has submitted an IND (Investigational New Drug) application to the FDA for a Phase I safety trial in chronic spinal cord injury.

Neuralstem also has the ability to generate stable human neural stem cell lines suitable for the systematic screening of large chemical libraries. Through this proprietary screening technology, Neuralstem has discovered and patented compounds that may stimulate the brain's capacity to generate new neurons, possibly reversing the pathologies of some central nervous system conditions. The company has received approval from the FDA to conduct a Phase Ib safety trial evaluating NSI-189, its first neurogenic small molecule compound, for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). Additional indications could include CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy), Alzheimer's disease, anxiety, and memory disorders.

For more information, please visit http://www.neuralstem.com or connect with us on Twitter and Facebook.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Information

This news release may contain forward-looking statements made pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements in this press release regarding potential applications of Neuralstem's technologies constitute forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, risks inherent in the development and commercialization of potential products, uncertainty of clinical trial results or regulatory approvals or clearances, need for future capital, dependence upon collaborators and maintenance of our intellectual property rights. Actual results may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements. Additional information on potential factors that could affect our results and other risks and uncertainties are detailed from time to time in Neuralstem's periodic reports, including the annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011 and the Form 10-Q for the period ended March 30, 2012.

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Neuralstem CEO to Present at the World Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Congress in London

NEW YORK, May 22, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --IntelliCell BioSciences, Inc.("Company") (SVFC.PK) announced today that it has entered a sponsored research agreement with the Institute for Cell Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (ICERM) at the University of Florida. A portion of the collaborative work will be to explore the physiological characteristics of the adult autologous vascular cells that are also referred to as stromal vascular fraction cells which form the basis of the IntelliCell product. The company also intends to explore combination therapies with patent pending bio-engineered products under development. The Company believes that the IntelliCell product is an efficient cellular delivery platform for a variety of therapeutic applications and will look to partner with technology developers.

Said Jon Dobson, Ph.D., Professor of biomedical engineering and biomaterials at the University of Florida, "We are pleased to be working with IntelliCell. Their technology is innovative and appears to hold promise for future regenerative medicine applications. The use of adult autologous (your own) stem cells to repair and regenerate tissues are of great interest to personalized medicine researchers." Professor Dobson is a leading researcher in bionanotechnology and nanomedicine applications and apart from regenerative medicine, his work also spans across fields as diverse as gene therapy, stem cell therapy and tumor targeting. He is also the Director of the newly formed Institute for Cell Engineering and Regenerative Medicine at the University of Florida.

Dr. Steven Victor, CEO of IntelliCell, added "This is a very exciting time for regenerative medicine companies. We are looking forward to long and productive research collaboration with the University of Florida and Professor Dobson. IntelliCell believes that important contributions for better medicine will result from research collaborations with our university research colleagues." Robert Sexauer, Executive Vice President, ICBS Research, stated that "we would like to take a thought leadership position by working closely with those at the vanguard of regenerative medicine development."

About IntelliCell BioSciences

IntelliCell is a pioneering regenerative medicine company focused on the expanding regenerative medical markets using adult autologous vascular cells (SVC's) derived from the blood vessels in the adult adipose tissue. IntelliCell Biosciences has developed its own patent pending protocol to separate adult autologous vascular cells from adipose tissue without the use of enzymes. IntelliCell will also be seeking to develop technology licensing agreements with technology developers, universities, and international business entities.

About University of Florida

The University of Florida is one of the nation's largest public universities. A member of the Association of American Universities, UF receives more than $619 million annually in sponsored research funding. Through its research and other activities, UF contributes more than $8.76 billion a year to Florida's economy and has a total employment impact of more than 100,000 jobs statewide. http://www.ufl.edu.University of Florida Research: Working for Florida.

Forward-LookingStatements

Certain statements set forth in this press release constitute "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, any statement that may predict, forecast, indicate, or imply future results, performance or achievements, and may contain the words "estimate," "project," "intend," "forecast," "anticipate," "plan," "planning," "expect," "believe," "will likely," "should," "could," "would," "may" or words or expressions of similar meaning. Such statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause the company's actual results and financial position to differ materially from those included within the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including those relating to the Company's ability to grow its business. Actual results may differ materially from the results predicted and reported results should not be considered as an indication of future performance. The potential risks and uncertainties include, among others, the Company's limited operating history, the limited financial resources, domestic or global economic conditions, activities of competitors and the presence of new or additional competition, and changes in Federal or State laws. More information about the potential factors that could affect the Company's business and financial results is included in the Company's filings, available via the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

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IntelliCell BioSciences Announces Collaborative Agreement with the University of Florida on Stem Cell and Tissue ...

Newswise About 3 percent of the babies born in the United States have a birth defect. Children without a birth defect are also susceptible to injury or disease. At The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), regenerative medicine researchers are exploring innovative ways to treat these conditions.

The Department of Pediatric Surgery at the UTHealth Medical School operates a research program devoted to childhood conditions that is seeking to harness the bodys regenerative powers to repair malformed organs and to mitigate injury from illness or trauma. It is called the Childrens Regenerative Medicine Program.

Kevin Lally, M.D., chairman of the Department of Pediatric Surgery at the UTHealth Medical School and surgeon-in-chief at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, announced the recruitment of four stem cell scientists to the program. The researchers are associate professor Yong Li, M.D., Ph.D., and assistant professors Scott Olson, Ph.D., Fabio Triolo, M.Phil., D.d.R., Ph.D., and Pamela Wenzel, Ph.D.

We were able to recruit outstanding investigators thanks in part to the generous support of Mrs. Clare Glassell and Mrs. Evelyn Griffin, said Lally, who is the A.G. McNeese Chair in Pediatric Surgery and the Richard Andrassy, M.D., Endowed Distinguished Professor at UTHealth. Our program in regenerative medicine is committed to a collaborative environment in which clinicians work with basic researchers.

Lally has a special interest in the treatment of a potentially life-threatening condition known as congenital diaphragmatic hernia that occurs in as many as one in every 2,500 live births and is often treated surgically. The diaphragm is a muscle separating the chest cavity and belly and is important for breathing.

The core fundamental problem is infants born with structural problems that need to be repaired, said Lally, who believes doctors may be able to use stem cells to replace the diaphragm or repair defects in the abdominal wall.

Stem cells may also help children with traumatic brain injuries. Charles Cox Jr., M.D., professor of pediatric surgery, director of the Pediatric Trauma Program at the UTHealth Medical School/Childrens Memorial Hermann Hospital and The Childrens Fund Inc. Distinguished Professor in Pediatric Surgery, is leading clinical research on the use of these versatile cells to address this leading cause of death and lifelong disability among children.

Yong Li, M.D., Ph.D.

Li previously served as a tenure track assistant professor in the Stem Cell Research Center at Childrens Hospital of Pittsburgh, where his laboratory studied the regenerative power of newts and salamanders in the hope of applying this information to the care of people.

Newts are able to regenerate missing body parts including limbs, spine and heart. Li has studied growth factors that facilitate this regeneration process in some amphibians and how they could be used for stem cell population and tissue engineering.

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UTHealth Pediatric Surgery Expands Regenerative Medicine Program