US company to study stem cell treatment

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Source: CCTV.com | 01-24-2009 14:47

A US biotech company says it plans to start the world's first study of a treatment based on human embryonic stem cells.

The long-awaited project aims to help patients with spinal cord injuries.

Ampoules containing a medium for stem cell storage are displayed in north London, May 19, 2004. (Peter Macdiarmid/Reuters)

The company gained federal permission this week to inject eight to ten patients with cells derived from embryonic cells.

The first round of clinical trials is seen as the dawn of a new scientific era in repairing damaged spines.

Initial trials on mice show it is possible to develop new nervous system transmitter cells from so-called unspecified embryonic stem cells.

Experts say although major advances in spinal injury recovery may not be made overnight, incremental steps may be the best reward.

There remain some dangers in the clinical trials. There is a risk that a patient's immune system might respond negatively to the foreign cells.

The American Christian Family Research Council has denounced the move, saying it amounts to cannibalisation.

Testing is scheduled to begin this summer on paraplegic patients who can use their arms but aren't able to walk.