NewsScienceThis was the decade designer babies went from concept to feasibility

Saturday, 28th December 2019, 7:02 am

Gene editing

This was the decade when designer babies went from science fiction to fact as a Chinese scientist, He Jiankui, made the shock announcement in December 2018 that the worlds first genetically modified children had been born. He was working illegally and he was widely condemned for not waiting until regulations had been put into place.

But the move showed just how rapidly the Crispr-Cas9 gene-editing technique likened to a find and replace command wasadvancing.

Embryonic and pluripotent Stem Cellresearch

This potentially revolutionary field of medicine has developed to the point where treatments are just around the corner.

Embryonic, or pluripotent, stem cells have extraordinary medical potential because they can develop into any one of the 220 or so mature, specialised cells of the body from insulin-making pancreatic cells to the nerve cells of the brain. In 2018, scientists restored the vision of two UK patients with age-related macular degeneration by inserting a patch of embryonic stem cells into their eyes. The research team hopes an affordable, off-the-shelf therapy could be available to NHS patients within five years.

Treatments for spinal cord injury, heart failure, diabetes, Parkinsons disease and lung cancer are also in advanced trials.

Higgs Boson

Gravitational waves

Scientific history was made in December 2016 as gravitational ripples in the fabric of spacetime, first predicted by Albert Einstein 100 years earlier, were detected, opening new vistas into the dark side of the universe. Physicists around the world confirmed they had detected unambiguous signals of gravitational waves emanating from the collision of two black holes 1.3 billion light years away.

The observations not only confirmed Einsteins general theory of relativity; they also provided the first direct detection of black holes colliding.

Black holes

Neanderthals

The Neanderthals may have been extinct for thousands of years, but in 2010, geneticists mapped their genome using DNA extracted from ancient bones. This led to a startling discovery: our ancestors interbred with other species after they migrated out of Africa.

So in the UK, most of us have a small percentage of Neanderthal genes in our DNA.

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From gene editing to black holes and the Neanderthals, here's the biggest advances in science over the past decade - inews

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on From gene editing to black holes and the Neanderthals, here’s the biggest advances in science over the past decade – inews | December 28th, 2019

In theglobalstem cells marketa sizeable proportion of companies are trying to garner investments from organizations based overseas. This is one of the strategies leveraged by them to grow their market share. Further, they are also forging partnerships with pharmaceutical organizations to up revenues.

In addition, companies in the global stem cells market are pouring money into expansion through multidisciplinary and multi-sector collaboration for large scale production of high quality pluripotent and differentiated cells. The market, at present, is characterized by a diverse product portfolio, which is expected to up competition, and eventually growth in the market.

Some of the key players operating in the global stem cells market are STEMCELL Technologies Inc., Astellas Pharma Inc., Cellular Engineering Technologies Inc., BioTime Inc., Takara Bio Inc., U.S. Stem Cell, Inc., BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics Inc., Cytori Therapeutics, Inc., Osiris Therapeutics, Inc., and Caladrius Biosciences, Inc.

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As per a report by Transparency Market Research, the global market for stem cells is expected to register a healthy CAGR of 13.8% during the period from 2017 to 2025 to become worth US$270.5 bn by 2025.

Depending upon the type of products, the global stem cell market can be divided into adult stem cells, human embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, etc. Of them, the segment of adult stem cells accounts for a leading share in the market. This is because of their ability to generate trillions of specialized cells which may lower the risks of rejection and repair tissue damage.

Depending upon geography, the key segments of the global stem cells market are North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East and Africa. At present, North America dominates the market because of the substantial investments in the field, impressive economic growth, rising instances of target chronic diseases, and technological progress. As per the TMR report, the market in North America will likely retain its dominant share in the near future to become worth US$167.33 bn by 2025.

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Investments in Research Drives Market

Constant thrust on research to broaden the utility scope of associated products is at the forefront of driving growth in the global stem cells market. Such research projects have generated various possibilities of different clinical applications of these cells, to usher in new treatments for diseases.Since cellular therapies are considered the next major step in transforming healthcare, companies are expanding their cellular therapy portfolio to include a range of ailments such as Parkinsons disease, type 1 diabetes, spinal cord injury, Alzheimers disease, etc.

The growing prevalence of chronic diseases and increasing investments of pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies in stem cell research are the key driving factors for the stem cells therapeutics market. The growing number of stem cell donors, improved stem cell banking facilities, and increasing research and development are other crucial factors serving to propel the market, explains the lead analyst of the report.

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Stem Cells Market Poised to Expand at a Robust Pace Over 2017 to 2025 - Market Research Sheets

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on Stem Cells Market Poised to Expand at a Robust Pace Over 2017 to 2025 – Market Research Sheets | December 24th, 2019

SCIENTISTS hope a cure for motor neurone disease (MND) is a step closer after a research breakthrough identified cells key to the degenerative condition.

There is currently no known cure for MND, which causes signals from motor neurone nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord needed to control movement to gradually stop reaching the muscles.

Notable people who have lived with MND include Scottish rugby star Doddie Weir and Stephen Hawking.

Researchers used stem cell technology to identify a type of cell that can cause motor neurones to fail.

Using stem cells from patient skin samples, they found glial cells, which normally support neurones in the brain and spinal cord, become damaging to motor neurones in the patients with the condition.

By testing different combinations of glial cells and motor neurones grown together in the lab, researchers found glial cells from MND patients can cause motor neurones in healthy people to stop producing the electrical signals needed to control muscles.

READ MORE:BBCSports Personality of the Year award to honour Doddie Weir

Gareth Miles, a professor of neuroscience at the University of St Andrews, helped lead the joint project with the University of Edinburgh.

Miles said: We are very excited by these new findings, which clearly point the finger at glial cells as key players in this devastating disease.

Interestingly, the negative influence of glial cells seems to prevent motor neurones from fulfilling their normal roles, even before the motor neurones show signs of dying.

We hope that this new information highlights targets for the development of much-needed treatments and ultimately a cure for MND.

The joint research was published in the scientific journal Glia.

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Scientists hope MND cure is a step closer after stem cell breakthrough discovery - The National

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on Scientists hope MND cure is a step closer after stem cell breakthrough discovery – The National | December 21st, 2019

ROCHESTER, Minn. Stem cells derived from a patient's own fat offer a step toward improving not just stabilizing motor and sensory function of people with spinal cord injuries, according to early research from Mayo Clinic.

A clinical trial enrolled 10 adults to treat paralysis from traumatic spinal cord injury. After stem cell injection, the first patient demonstrated improvement in motor and sensory functions, and had no significant adverse effects, according to a case report published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings.

Watch: Chris Barr's Mayo Clinic story.

Journalists: Broadcast-quality video (5:12) is in the downloads at the end of this post. Please "Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network." Read the script.

As a phase I multidisciplinaryclinical trial, the study tests the safety, side effects and ideal dose of stemcells. Early trial findings show that patient response varies. The Mayo teamplans to continue analyzing patient responses, and further results will bepublished on the other nine trial participants.

Read more from the study team in this Center for Regenerative Medicine blog post.

"In this case report, the first patient was a superresponder, but there are other patients in the trial who are moderate responders and nonresponders," says Mohamad Bydon, M.D., a Mayo Clinic neurologic surgeon and first author of the report. "One of our objectives in this study and future studies is to better delineate who will be a responder and why patients respond differently to stem cell injections.

"The findings to date will be encouraging to patients with spinal cord injuries, as we are exploring an increasing array of options for treatment that might improve physical function after these devastating injuries."

Between 250,000 and 500,000 people worldwide suffer a spinal cord injury each year, often with life-changing loss of sensory and motor function, according to the World Health Organization. Up to 90% of these cases are from traumatic causes.

All subjectsenrolled in this study received fat-derived stem cell treatment, which isexperimental and is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) forlarge-scale use. However, the FDA allowed its use in this research.

In the case report, the patient, then 53, injured the spinal cord in his neck in a 2017 surfing accident. He suffered a complete loss of function below the level of injury, meaning he could not move or feel anything below his neck. He had surgery to decompress and fuse his cervical vertebrae. Over the next few months, with physical and occupational therapy, he regained limited ability to use his arms and legs, and some sensory function improved. However, his progress plateaued at six months after his injury.

The patient enrolled in the study nine months after his injury.His stem cells were collected by taking a small amount of fat from his abdomen.Over eight weeks, the cells were expanded in the laboratory to 100 millioncells. Then the stem cells were injected into the patient's lumbarspine, in the lower back, 11 months after his injury.

"We want to intervene when the physical function has plateaued, so that we do not allow the intervention to take credit for early improvements that occur as part of the natural history with many spinal cord injuries. In this case, the patient was injected with stem cells nearly one year after his injury," Dr. Bydon says.

The patient was observed at baseline and at regular intervals over 18 months following injection. His physical therapy scores improved. For example, in the 10-meter walk test, the patient's baseline of 57.72 seconds improved at 15 months to 23 seconds. And in the ambulation test, the patient's baseline of 635 feet for 12.8 minutes improved at 15 months to 2,200 feet for 34 minutes.

Thepatient's occupational therapy scores also improved, such as grip and pinchstrength, and manual dexterity. His sensory scores improved, with pin prick andlight touch tests, as did his mental health score.

Thestem cells migrate to the highest level of inflammation, which is at the levelof spinal cord injury, but the cells' mechanism of interacting with the spinalcord is not fully understood, Dr. Bydon says. As part of the study,investigators collected cerebrospinal fluid on all of the patients to look forbiological markers that might give clues to healing. Biological markers areimportant because they can help identify the critical processes that lead to spinalcord injury at a cellular level and could lead to new regenerative therapies.

"Regenerative medicine is an evolving field," says Wenchun Qu, M.D., Ph.D., a Mayo Clinic physiatrist and pain specialist, and senior author of the report. "Mayo's research and use of stem cells are informed by years of rigorous scientific investigation. We strive to ensure that patients who receive stem cells are fully educated in the risks, benefits, alternatives and unknowns about these therapies. Through our clinical trials with stem cells, we are learning from and improving these procedures."

Further study is needed to scientifically verify the effectiveness of stem cell therapy for paralysis from spinal cord injury, the authors note. It is uncertain when or if this procedure will have FDA approval for routine clinical care.

Other researchers involved in this study were Allan Dietz, Ph.D.; Sandy Goncalves; F.M. Moinuddin, Ph.D.; Mohammed Ali Alvi, M.B.B.S.; Anshit Goyal, M.B.B.S.; Yagiz Yolcu, M.D.; Christine Hunt, D.O.; Kristin Garlanger, D.O.; Ronald Reeves, M.D.; Andre Terzic, M.D., Ph.D.; and Anthony Windebank, M.D. all from Mayo Clinic.

The cell product was developed and manufactured in the Mayo Clinic Immune, Progenitor and Cell Therapeutics (IMPACT) Lab directed by Dr. Dietz.

This research was funded by grants from Regenerative Medicine Minnesota and Mayo Clinic Transform the Practice and supported by Mayo Clinic Center for Regenerative Medicine.

The authors have norelevant disclosures or conflicts of interest to report.

###

About Mayo Clinic ProceedingsMayo Clinic Proceedingsis a monthly peer-reviewed medical journal that publishes original articles and reviews dealing with clinical and laboratory medicine, clinical research, basic science research, and clinical epidemiology. Mayo Clinic Proceedings is sponsored by the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research as part of its commitment to physician education. It publishes submissions from authors worldwide. The journal has been published for more than 90 years and has a circulation of 127,000. Visit the Mayo Clinic Proceedings website to view articles.

About Mayo Clinic Center for Regenerative MedicineMayo Clinic Center for Regenerative Medicine seeks to integrate, develop and deploy new regenerative medicine products and services that continually differentiate Mayo's practice to draw patients from around the world for complex care. Learn more on the Center for Regenerative Medicine website.

About Mayo ClinicMayo Clinicis a nonprofit organization committed to innovation in clinical practice, education and research, and providing compassion, expertise and answers to everyone who needs healing.Visit the Mayo Clinic News Networkfor additional Mayo Clinic news andAn Inside Look at Mayo Clinicfor more information about Mayo.

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Case report: Stem cells a step toward improving motor ...

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on Case report: Stem cells a step toward improving motor … | December 20th, 2019

Gurugram/New Delhi, Dec 19 : In a ground-breaking procedure, Haematologists and Bone Marrow Transplant specialists successfully treated Anurag Mishra, a 47-year-old man from New Delhi, suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS) from the past seven years.

The most common symptoms of MS include loss of sensation and balance, restricted arm or leg movement and vision loss in one or both the eyes.

Mishra, who was bedridden earlier, is back to his normal routine life, was diagnosed with MS an autoimmune neurodegenerative disease, where the body's own defence system starts attacking its nervous system, without any specific reason

Unlike the current line of MS treatment, which mainly includes steroid therapy, physiotherapy and symptom management, doctors used Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT).

Dr Rahul Bhargava, Director, Department of Clinical Hematology iamp; Bone Marrow Transplant, Fortis Hospital in Gurugram with his team performed autologous bone marrow transplant where they used Mishra's stem cells for transplant, thereby reducing the chances of rejection and infections.

"In an autologous BMT procedure, the healthy stem cells from the patient are taken out and preserved. Chemotherapy is then administered to reset the body's immunity and then the stem cells are injected back to rescue the person from the side effects of chemotherapy," said Bhargava.

After the surgery, the patient is kept under isolation for a few months to ensure he/she does not contract any infection. In this case, when Mr Anurag approached us, he was entirely dependent on others for his basic needs. But within six months after the treatment, he is back on his legs and is carrying on with his normal life," Bhargava added.

According to the patient, the attacks are sudden and may affect any part of your body, limiting your abilities.

"Extreme pain and disabilities this disease gave, made me very scary and depressing. I think I am very lucky to get to know about Dr Rahul Bhargava and team, who cured me miraculously," Mishra said.

"Too much delay in the procedure can considerably affect the clinical outcomes. In the case of Mr Anurag, recovery is 90 per cent, which means he received the treatment within recovery time-frame," Dr Bhargava said.

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47-year-old successfully treated with bone marrow transplant | newkerala.com News #267197 - New Kerala

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on 47-year-old successfully treated with bone marrow transplant | newkerala.com News #267197 – New Kerala | December 20th, 2019

Gurugram/New Delhi: In a ground-breaking procedure, Haematologists and Bone Marrow Transplant specialists successfully treated Anurag Mishra, a 47-year-old man from New Delhi, suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS) from the past seven years.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a life-long condition, known to reduce life-expectancy. MS affects the brain and spinal cord that leads to serious disabilities.

The most common symptoms of MS include loss of sensation and balance, restricted arm or leg movement and vision loss in one or both the eyes.

Mishra, who was bedridden earlier, is back to his normal routine life, was diagnosed with MS an autoimmune neurodegenerative disease, where the body's own defence system starts attacking its nervous system, without any specific reason

Dr Rahul Bhargava, Director, Department of Clinical Hematology & Bone Marrow Transplant, Fortis Hospital in Gurugram with his team performed autologous bone marrow transplant where they used Mishra's stem cells for transplant, thereby reducing the chances of rejection and infections.

"In an autologous BMT procedure, the healthy stem cells from the patient are taken out and preserved. Chemotherapy is then administered to reset the body's immunity and then the stem cells are injected back to rescue the person from the side effects of chemotherapy," said Bhargava.

After the surgery, the patient is kept under isolation for a few months to ensure he/she does not contract any infection. In this case, when Mr Anurag approached us, he was entirely dependent on others for his basic needs. But within six months after the treatment, he is back on his legs and is carrying on with his normal life," Bhargava added.

According to the patient, the attacks are sudden and may affect any part of your body, limiting your abilities.

"Extreme pain and disabilities this disease gave, made me very scary and depressing. I think I am very lucky to get to know about Dr Rahul Bhargava and team, who cured me miraculously," Mishra said.

"Too much delay in the procedure can considerably affect the clinical outcomes. In the case of Mr Anurag, recovery is 90 per cent, which means he received the treatment within recovery time-frame," Dr Bhargava said.

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Delhi: 47-year-old successfully treated with bone marrow transplant - ETHealthworld.com

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on Delhi: 47-year-old successfully treated with bone marrow transplant – ETHealthworld.com | December 19th, 2019

Stem Cell Assay Market: Snapshot

Stem cell assay refers to the procedure of measuring the potency of antineoplastic drugs, on the basis of their capability of retarding the growth of human tumor cells. The assay consists of qualitative or quantitative analysis or testing of affected tissues and tumors, wherein their toxicity, impurity, and other aspects are studied.

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With the growing number of successful stem cell therapy treatment cases, the global market for stem cell assays will gain substantial momentum. A number of research and development projects are lending a hand to the growth of the market. For instance, the University of Washingtons Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM) has attempted to manipulate stem cells to heal eye, kidney, and heart injuries. A number of diseases such as Alzheimers, spinal cord injury, Parkinsons, diabetes, stroke, retinal disease, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and neurological diseases can be successfully treated via stem cell therapy. Therefore, stem cell assays will exhibit growing demand.

Another key development in the stem cell assay market is the development of innovative stem cell therapies. In April 2017, for instance, the first participant in an innovative clinical trial at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health was successfully treated with stem cell therapy. CardiAMP, the investigational therapy, has been designed to direct a large dose of the patients own bone-marrow cells to the point of cardiac injury, stimulating the natural healing response of the body.

Newer areas of application in medicine are being explored constantly. Consequently, stem cell assays are likely to play a key role in the formulation of treatments of a number of diseases.

Global Stem Cell Assay Market: Overview

The increasing investment in research and development of novel therapeutics owing to the rising incidence of chronic diseases has led to immense growth in the global stem cell assay market. In the next couple of years, the market is expected to spawn into a multi-billion dollar industry as healthcare sector and governments around the world increase their research spending.

The report analyzes the prevalent opportunities for the markets growth and those that companies should capitalize in the near future to strengthen their position in the market. It presents insights into the growth drivers and lists down the major restraints. Additionally, the report gauges the effect of Porters five forces on the overall stem cell assay market.

Global Stem Cell Assay Market: Key Market Segments

For the purpose of the study, the report segments the global stem cell assay market based on various parameters. For instance, in terms of assay type, the market can be segmented into isolation and purification, viability, cell identification, differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, and function. By kit, the market can be bifurcated into human embryonic stem cell kits and adult stem cell kits. Based on instruments, flow cytometer, cell imaging systems, automated cell counter, and micro electrode arrays could be the key market segments.

In terms of application, the market can be segmented into drug discovery and development, clinical research, and regenerative medicine and therapy. The growth witnessed across the aforementioned application segments will be influenced by the increasing incidence of chronic ailments which will translate into the rising demand for regenerative medicines. Finally, based on end users, research institutes and industry research constitute the key market segments.

The report includes a detailed assessment of the various factors influencing the markets expansion across its key segments. The ones holding the most lucrative prospects are analyzed, and the factors restraining its trajectory across key segments are also discussed at length.

Global Stem Cell Assay Market: Regional Analysis

Regionally, the market is expected to witness heightened demand in the developed countries across Europe and North America. The increasing incidence of chronic ailments and the subsequently expanding patient population are the chief drivers of the stem cell assay market in North America. Besides this, the market is also expected to witness lucrative opportunities in Asia Pacific and Rest of the World.

Global Stem Cell Assay Market: Vendor Landscape

A major inclusion in the report is the detailed assessment of the markets vendor landscape. For the purpose of the study the report therefore profiles some of the leading players having influence on the overall market dynamics. It also conducts SWOT analysis to study the strengths and weaknesses of the companies profiled and identify threats and opportunities that these enterprises are forecast to witness over the course of the reports forecast period.

Some of the most prominent enterprises operating in the global stem cell assay market are Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc (U.S.), Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (U.S.), GE Healthcare (U.K.), Hemogenix Inc. (U.S.), Promega Corporation (U.S.), Bio-Techne Corporation (U.S.), Merck KGaA (Germany), STEMCELL Technologies Inc. (CA), Cell Biolabs, Inc. (U.S.), and Cellular Dynamics International, Inc. (U.S.).

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Stem Cell Assay Market Predicted to Accelerate the Growth by 2017-2025 - Industry Mirror

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on Stem Cell Assay Market Predicted to Accelerate the Growth by 2017-2025 – Industry Mirror | December 19th, 2019

Cell Processing Technologies Market: Introduction

Cell processing involves a series of activities ranging from cells collection from donor, cell extraction till the storage, and cells distribution to receiver for cell therapy. Cell processing includes various processes of cell collection, cell isolation, cell analysis, cell expansion, washing and concentration, preservation, and distribution.

Cell therapy refers to administering of living whole cells in a patient for treating a disease. Cells origin can be from the same individual, known as autologous source or from another individual, known as allogeneic source. For cell therapy, different types of cells can be used, including hematopoietic stem cells, skeletal muscle cells, embryonic stem cells, neural cells, and mesenchymal cells. Cell therapy is used for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, cancers, infectious and urinary diseases, repairmen of spinal cord injuries, rebuilding damaged cartilage in joints, improvement of a weakened immune system, and aiding patients with neurological disorders.

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Key Drivers of Global Cell Processing Technologies MarketIncrease in demand for cell therapy, as it is the only curative treatment for several diseases, such as autoimmune disease, cancer, and neural disease. This factor is responsible for growth of the global cell processing technologies market.

There is a rise in prevalence of various diseases, such as cancer, immune diseases, neurological disorders, cardiovascular disease, etc. According to the National Cancer Institute, in 2016, there were an estimated 15.5 million cancer survivors in the U.S. The number of cancer survivors is anticipated to increase to 20.3 million by 2026.

Personalized medicines or precision medicines with advanced treatments such as gene therapy and cell therapy are witnessing a surge in their adoption, as most of the key biotechnology and pharmaceutical players are heavily investing in these technologies

Government investments in cell-based researches, rise in the number of GMP-certified production facilities, and increase in clinical trials of various diseases are key factors propelling the growth of the global cell processing technologies market

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Key Restraints of Global Cell Processing Technologies Market

Cell processing is a complex procedure with high probabilities of failure. Thus, its complexity and accuracy demand technologically advanced and high-tech infrastructure, along with a skilled operating staff. These incur high infrastructural and operating costs, which limit its adoption on a large scale.

High operating cost also leads to high cell therapy cost to patients. However, at present, the cell therapy is approved for a limited number of conditions, which further limits the usage of cell processing technologies and services

Equipment Segment of Cell Processing Technologies Market to Witness Strong Growth

Complexity in cell processing steps and accuracy required for procedure has led to the development of advanced automated cell processing systems. Key players have been heavily investing in the development of advanced cell processing systems. Advancements in software for managing these systems are projected to expand the application areas for cell processing units.

In May 2018, GE Healthcare introduced the Sefia S-2000 cell processing system, which is advanced than its predecessor Sefia S-1000 cell processing system. This advanced system was developed with focus on chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy.

Investments in CAR-T and other cell and gene therapy products are projected to drive the adoption of cell processing equipment. As the installed base for cell processing systems is projected to surge, the demand for consumables is likely to grow during the forecast period.

Oncology is projected to be the most promising application area of cell processing technology, considering high investments and ongoing research in cell therapies for cancer treatment and high investment made by key biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies in this area.

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Cell Processing Technologies Market Segmentation and Forecast Analysis up to 2027 - 101Newsindustry

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on Cell Processing Technologies Market Segmentation and Forecast Analysis up to 2027 – 101Newsindustry | December 18th, 2019

Gary L. Dunbar, executive director of the Field Neurosciences Institute, part of Ascension St. Mary's, was recently presented with the Gusi Peace Prize International Award.

Dr. Dunbar recently traveled to Manila, Philippines to accept this honor at the Gusi Peace Prize International 20th Annual Awards Night.

The Gusi Peace Prize award is given by the Gusi Peace Prize Foundation to recognize individuals and organizations who contribute to global peace and progress through a wide variety of fields. Dunbar was one of 18 international recipients selected for the award and chosen because of his global contributions in both the educational and the research domains of neuroscience. Similarly, his contributions in research, especially for developing new strategies for treating damage to the nervous system, including transplantation of genetically altered adult stem cells as a potential therapy for injury to the brain and spinal cord as well as neurological deficits in Huntington's, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, has earned international recognition and a prominent leadership role in the American Society for Neural Therapy and Repair.

"I felt both honored and humbled to be selected for the Gusi Peace Prize, especially after meeting and hearing, first-hand, what the other 2019 Gusi Laureates have accomplished in the context of helping others, which was humbling to me," shared Dunbar. "The prize is given to those whose efforts have provided significant improvements to the lives of others through education, research, politics, and/or the arts, along with a strong commitment to humanitarian commitments, so I felt deeply honored to be included in this group of people."

Dunbar has been the executive director for the Field Neurosciences Institute since 2008. Martha Ann Joseph, Chair of the institute's board of directors, was thrilled to hear that Dunbar was a recipient of the Gusi Peace Prize International Award.

"(Field Neurosciences Institute) is blessed to have Dr. Dunbar as our executive director for the past 11 years as he has always embraced the mission of the organization, to help others in terms of preventing brain injury and searching for cures for neurological problems emanating from trauma and disease to the nervous system," Joseph said.

"Dr. Dunbar embodies the very premise of the Gusi award in attaining peace and dignity for fellow humans by his tireless devotion to finding new ways to treat a variety of neurological disorders and for his dedicated efforts in educating the next generation of neuroscientists, physicians, and health-care providers at the highest level," added E. Malcolm Field, Field Neurosciences Institute director.

Presently, Dunbar holds the John G. Kulhavi Professorship in Neuroscience, as well as the E. Malcolm Field Endowed Chair in Neuroscience at CMU.

The Gusi Peace Prize was founded by the Honorable Ambassador Barry Gusi, to honor and continue the work of his late father, Captain Gemeniano Javier Gusi, who fought against Japanese oppression during World War II and later championed human rights in the Philippines. For 20 years, the Gusi Peace Prize Award has been awarded to prominent individuals from all over the world who have made significant contributions to the betterment of humankind.

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International Peace Prize awarded to Ascension St. Mary's executive director - Midland Daily News

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on International Peace Prize awarded to Ascension St. Mary’s executive director – Midland Daily News | December 16th, 2019

Sometimes when hes asleep, Nick Hernandez has this dream.

The 54-year-old Homer Glen man is playing baseball for a professional team. He hits a ball down the line. He smells the grass. Everything is normal, vividly normal.

And then

Hernandez wakes up in a body that had a C-6 spinal injury 37 years ago.

Before the accident, Hernandez played basketball and baseball for the former Joliet Catholic High School (now Joliet Catholic Academy). He was a college prospect for both sports and was to serve as team captain for both sports his senior year.

Hernandez also was a scholar, ranking 30th out of 205 students. His grade-point average was 4.03

I loved Joliet Catholic, Hernandez said, even though I felt like a fish out of water freshman year because all my friends went to Lockport.

Hernandez has remained close to his Catholic High family through the years. And like a good family, this close group of his friends is raising $75,000 to buy Hernandez a new special needs van, which will keep him mobile and independent.

His current van is 19 years old, and Hernandezs mechanic said it soon will be unsafe to drive, Hernandez said.

Hernandez appreciates their friendship and expressed it more than once.

Im the luckiest guy on the face of the earth, he said, despite the injury.

The injury that changed his life happened Aug. 4, 1982.

It was 9:30 p.m. and Hernandez was driving home from a friends house. He was on 143rd Street, less than a mile from home, when two horses jumped out. He remembers the impact, the horses coming down on top of my vehicle before slipping into unconsciousness.

I woke up a few minutes later in the vehicle, Hernandez said. My rearview mirror was bent and facing me, and I had blood streaming down my face. I could not move, and I was in a great deal of pain, neck pain Id never felt before. I kind of knew immediately. I just knew I had a spinal cord injury.

Oddly enough, he said, a friend of the family recently had a neck injury while swimming, an incident Hernandez had only vaguely noted at the time, but something he recalled in that moment, with his vehicle on the opposite side of the road and the nice cut in the top of my head, which would leave a permanent scar.

But a scar was not Hernandezs concern at the time.

My job was just to fight, to try to stay alive, quite honestly, Hernandez said.

His parents, Nick Sr. and Madeleine, soon arrived on the scene; a priest gave last rites on the spot. Hernandez recalled thinking, Well, this is how it ends.

Hernandez said he was taken to Silver Cross to be stabilized and was transferred to Northwestern Memorial Hospital that night, his home until December. He spent three days in the intensive care unit, where he was given morphine to help him sleep, Hernandez said.

He wore a brace that was drilled into his temples to stabilize his spine You feel like Frankenstein, Hernandez said, and he was periodically rotated every two hours, as if he was on a rotisserie, he said.

It was a do-or-die situation, Hernandez said. I guess something inside me said, Youre still alive. You have to. Too many people just cared about me, I guess this was long before Christopher Reeve. I was just a kid who fought to stay alive.

Hernandezs weight dropped from 180 to 130 pounds as his muscles atrophied, he said. He learned to breathe through his diaphragm.

The experience forced him to grow up fast, he said, which he did, with the help of family, friends, teammates and coaches (Mike Gillespie coached Hernandez for basketball ,and Jack Schimanski coached Hernandez for baseball) who visited him.

I never wrapped my arms around how it could be so emotional for someone else, Hernandez said. Its the ripple effect I didnt understand at the time.

When physical therapy was completed, Hernandez returned to Catholic High to complete his senior year and graduated with honors. While there, he attended school events prom, as well as baseball and basketball games.

He eventually relearned to drive, using hand controls in a modified van. It was frightening at first, until Hernandez moved past that fear.

I wanted to be on the road again, Hernandez said. Thats the one thing about driving; it gives you that freedom.

He worked for medical supply companies until he wound up with pressure ulcers in 2010 that led to a bone infection and a flap surgery to correct it.

It was not a good time in my life, Hernandez said.

But it gave him time to reevaluate his life. He moved back to his parents house, where he now lives in a basement apartment. He now focuses his energy on taking better care of himself and spending time with loved ones, including going to movies with his girlfriend.

He still deals with nerve pain, although some days are better than others, he said.

Hernandez exercises at home with the use of a standing table (which puts pressure on his bones and reminds people just how tall he is at 6-foot-4) and swims using a modified butterfly stroke all summer in the family pool.

I just drag my legs behind me, Hernandez said. I may do 30 to 40 laps in the pool. Its really, really helpful for one with a spinal cord injury, or anybody really, when rehabbing. The water is a good way to exercise without putting too much pressure on the body.

Watching athletes, especially his nieces and nephews who play sports, from the sidelines has given Hernandez an appreciation of the capabilities of the human body when all parts work in unison.

And he thinks, I used to do that

But Hernandez has learned to deal with it, he said.

Because the other options arent pretty, Hernandez said. So if not for my family and friends, and obviously my belief in God you have doubts here and there, but I still have my faith I can hang in there if you can laugh with this injury, you can make it another day. As long as the good Lord wants you around, youll still be there. Im not preaching to anybody, but this is how I choose to live.

Hernandez still clings to his dream, his dream of walking one day.

Hes extremely excited about a Nov. 27 report from Mayo Clinic about how STEM cells from a patients fat can improve sensory motor function in people with spinal cord injuries.

If I just keep myself in shape, maybe, if Im here in another five years, maybe I can still walk, Hernandez said. It kind of keeps you motivated.

HOW TO HELP

Visit gofundme.com/f/new-wheels-for-nick-in-2020 or make checks payable to Nick Hernandez and mail to Al Petro, 4712 Galway Road, Joliet, IL 60431.

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'I was just a kid trying to stay alive' - The Herald-News

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on ‘I was just a kid trying to stay alive’ – The Herald-News | December 16th, 2019

Cell processing involves a series of activities ranging from cells collection from donor, cell extraction till the storage, and cells distribution to receiver for cell therapy. Cell processing includes various processes of cell collection, cell isolation, cell analysis, cell expansion, washing and concentration, preservation, and distribution.

Cell therapy refers to administering of living whole cells in a patient for treating a disease. Cells origin can be from the same individual, known as autologous source or from another individual, known as allogeneic source. For cell therapy, different types of cells can be used, including hematopoietic stem cells, skeletal muscle cells, embryonic stem cells, neural cells, and mesenchymal cells. Cell therapy is used for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, cancers, infectious and urinary diseases, repairmen of spinal cord injuries, rebuilding damaged cartilage in joints, improvement of a weakened immune system, and aiding patients with neurological disorders.

Key Drivers of Global Cell Processing Technologies Market

Increase in demand for cell therapy, as it is the only curative treatment for several diseases, such as autoimmune disease, cancer, and neural disease. This factor is responsible for growth of the global cell processing technologies market.

There is a rise in prevalence of various diseases, such as cancer, immune diseases, neurological disorders, cardiovascular disease, etc. According to the National Cancer Institute, in 2016, there were an estimated 15.5 million cancer survivors in the U.S. The number of cancer survivors is anticipated to increase to 20.3 million by 2026.

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Personalized medicines or precision medicines with advanced treatments such as gene therapy and cell therapy are witnessing a surge in their adoption, as most of the key biotechnology and pharmaceutical players are heavily investing in these technologies

Government investments in cell-based researches, rise in the number of GMP-certified production facilities, and increase in clinical trials of various diseases are key factors propelling the growth of the global cell processing technologies market

Key Restraints of Global Cell Processing Technologies Market

Cell processing is a complex procedure with high probabilities of failure. Thus, its complexity and accuracy demand technologically advanced and high-tech infrastructure, along with a skilled operating staff. These incur high infrastructural and operating costs, which limit its adoption on a large scale.

High operating cost also leads to high cell therapy cost to patients. However, at present, the cell therapy is approved for a limited number of conditions, which further limits the usage of cell processing technologies and services

Equipment Segment of Cell Processing Technologies Market to Witness Strong Growth

Complexity in cell processing steps and accuracy required for procedure has led to the development of advanced automated cell processing systems. Key players have been heavily investing in the development of advanced cell processing systems. Advancements in software for managing these systems are projected to expand the application areas for cell processing units.

In May 2018, GE Healthcare introduced the Sefia S-2000 cell processing system, which is advanced than its predecessor Sefia S-1000 cell processing system. This advanced system was developed with focus on chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy.

Investments in CAR-T and other cell and gene therapy products are projected to drive the adoption of cell processing equipment. As the installed base for cell processing systems is projected to surge, the demand for consumables is likely to grow during the forecast period.

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Oncology is projected to be the most promising application area of cell processing technology, considering high investments and ongoing research in cell therapies for cancer treatment and high investment made by key biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies in this area.

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Cell Processing Technologies Market Segments, Leading Player, Application and Forecast Analysis - Techi Labs

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on Cell Processing Technologies Market Segments, Leading Player, Application and Forecast Analysis – Techi Labs | December 16th, 2019

Article courtesy of : Dr. Brent Wells, D.C.

While it is very important to be sure the whole body is healthy and maintains that good health, its also important to understand key factors regarding why the health of the spine in particular; is important. Not only is a healthy spine important for the back area, obviously, but its also beneficial in terms of the body as a whole.

Because the spine and back must be kept healthy, its understanding how it affects the rest of the body that helps one to strive to reach that level of health. Some patients dont always understand the way a healthy spine assists in maintaining a healthy immune system within. However, as an Anchorage chiropractor, I am constantly showing my patients the importance of this health aspect.

To maintain a healthy and active life requires one to have a healthy spine. Maintaining a consistent good posture is one key factor that assists the body in terms of that.

Its important to keep in mind that the spine is responsible for supporting the body along with providing structure to the body. Without support or structure, the body will eventually fail and wont be able to perform daily functions.

The spinal cord alone is responsible for certain reflexes where the body is responding quickly to outside stimulants (ex. Your hand touching a hot stove and quickly and immediately removing the hand from the heat and pain). Therefore, anytime the spine is misaligned, the body is at risk of losing those necessary functions.

Anytime the spine is imbalanced, some other aspect of the body runs the risk of being compromised. Typically, the immune system is hindered because of an imbalance in the spine. A compromised spine means that the Central Nervous System is compromised, and when the CNS is compromised, the necessary responses regarding the immune system of the body are challenged.

The spinal cord houses very important nerves that directly communicate with the brain, being sure the rest of the body understands what to do and how to move.

Balance can also be affected when the spine is in a vulnerable position. Every movement that the body makes is coming from the connection of the spinal cord and the brain, minus those reflexes solely stemming from the spinal cord.

First, let's define posture. Posture is defined as the way you hold your body not only when standing but lying down and sitting also. In every position, it's very important to learn how to practice good posture.

When practicing good posture, you place less of a strain upon your back due to focusing on maintaining the position that keeps everything within its proper alignment.

A neutral spinal position is the only position that is beneficial to the health of the spine. Any other position brings more strain, causes further back issues and can create future issues with the curvature of the spine.

Good posture is important because it leads to healthy spines and long-term success overall in terms of the body.

There are signs you can be mindful of that will help you in knowing whether an adjustment is what you need. When the spine is out of alignment there are cases where once adjustment is all a patient may need, and in average situations, a few visits usually do the trick.

A chiropractor can help you on your journey to a healthy spine whether its a massage you desire, spinal manipulation, spinal mobilization, or physical therapy; the main goal and the desire that we have for you is that you leave pain free and enjoy living with a healthy back.

In terms of the head, neck, shoulders, and hips, if you are unable to move your head and neck without a struggle and pain; it may be time for an adjustment.

The hips along with the neck are central points that can generally aid in helping you better know whats going on with your spine. A loss of mobility and an increase of stiffness and unaddressed pains and aches can symbolize a need for an adjustment.

Because the CNS is made up of the spinal cord and the brain, when the spine is out of its proper position, the functioning it provides for the rest of the body is altered.

The immune system responses lack when the spine is being challenged, seeing that the nerves that are being housed are unable to receive the proper commands from the brain to then go throughout the body. (Ex. The body requires certain signaling of blood cells to respond and fight against the common cold, but because those nerves are compromised, the body won't receive the warnings and signals, therefore disabling the immune system to fully operate and function as highly as it should).

The level of tiredness we experience from day to day can stem from the pain our bodies sometimes deal with. It takes work for the body to fight off the pain it experiences especially pain that affects the whole body.

In some cases, the reason behind fatigue is indeed the need for an adjustment to the spine. If youre feeling rather fatigued and youre also experiencing specifically pain in the neck, back or shoulder area; it could be beneficial for you to visit your local chiropractor and talk business.

Remember that visiting your local chiropractor can and will assist you in better living a life free of abnormal curvatures within the spine. Further enabling your health to improve, and your body will experience more flexibility, coordination, better responses, and your balance will be sure to improve.

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The Importance Of Good Posture And Spinal Health - Anti Aging News

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on The Importance Of Good Posture And Spinal Health – Anti Aging News | December 16th, 2019

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 12, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Aspen Neuroscience, Inc. today announced its launch following a $6.5 million seed round led by Domain Associates and Axon Ventures and including Alexandria Venture Investments,Arch Venture Partners,OrbiMedand Section 32 to develop the first autologous cell therapies for Parkinson's disease. Aspen's proprietary approach was developed by the company's co-founders, Jeanne F. Loring, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus and founding director of the Center for Regenerative Medicine at The Scripps Research Institute, and Andres Bratt-Leal, Ph.D., a former post-doctoral researcher in Dr. Loring's lab. The company was initially supported by Summit for Stem Cell, a founding partner and non-profit organization which provides a variety of services for people with Parkinson's disease. Aspen is led by industry veteran Howard J. Federoff, M.D., Ph.D., as Chief Executive Officer.

Parkinson's disease is characterized by the loss of specific brain cells that make the chemical dopamine. Without dopamine, nerve cells cannot communicate with muscles and people are left with debilitating motor problems. Aspen is focusing on human pluripotent stem cells, cultured cells that can become any cell type in the human body. The company's research is specific to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which it develops by taking a skin biopsy from a person with Parkinson's disease and turning the tissue into pluripotent stem cells using genetic engineering. Aspen then differentiates the pluripotent stem cells into dopamine-releasing neurons that can be transplanted into that same person (autologous), thereby restoring the types of neurons lost in Parkinson's disease.

As an autologous cell therapy for Parkinson's disease, Aspen's treatment would eliminate the need for immunosuppression because the neurons are transplanted back into the same patient from which they were generated. The use of immunosuppression is necessary with currently available cell therapies for Parkinson's disease and when transplanting cells from one patient to another (allogeneic) to prevent rejection but can pre-dispose the patient to life-threatening complications including infection and add cost to the patient and health system. Aspen is the only company in the world offering an autologous neuron replacement therapy for Parkinson's disease.

Aspen encompasses a powerful executive leadership team including Dr. Federoff who, in addition to his leadership roles at the UC Irvine Health System, was the Executive Vice President for Health Sciences and the Executive Dean of Medicine at Georgetown University. Dr. Federoff also has significant biotech industry experience including co-founding MedGenesis Therapeutix and Brain Neurotherapy Bio, as well as leading the U.S. Parkinson's Disease Gene Therapy Study Group. The company is also proud to announce the addition of several experienced and well-known members to its leadership team including Edward Wirth, M.D., Ph.D., as Chief Medical Officer.

Dr. Wirth currently serves as the Chief Medical Ofcer for Lineage Cell Therapeutics where he oversees clinical development of its two therapeutic programs for spinal cord injuries and lung cancer. He received his M.D. and Ph.D. from the University of Florida in 1994 and remained to conduct postdoctoral research including leading the University of Florida team that performed the rst human embryonic spinal cord transplant in the U.S. Dr. Wirth went on to serve as the Medical Director for Regenerative Medicine at Geron Corporation where the world's rst clinical trial of human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived product occurred which demonstrated initial clinical safety.

Drs. Federoff and Wirth are joined by Dr. Loring, as Chief Scientific Officer; Jay Sial, as Chief Financial Officer; Andres Bratt-Leal, Ph.D., as Vice President of Research and Development; Thorsten Gorba, Ph.D., as Senior Director of Manufacturing and Naveen M. Krishnan, M.D., M.Phil., as Senior Director of Corporate Development.

"Aspen is developing a restorative, disease modifying autologous neuron therapy for people suffering from Parkinson's disease," said Dr. Federoff. "We are fortunate to have such a high-caliber scientific and medical leadership team to make our treatments a reality. Our cell replacement therapy, which originated in the laboratory of Dr. Jeanne Loring and was later supported by Summit for Stem Cell and its President, Ms. Jenifer Raub, has the potential to release dopamine and reconstruct neural networks where no disease-modifying therapies exist."

Aspen's lead product (ANPD001) is currently undergoing investigational new drug (IND)-enabling studies for the treatment of sporadic Parkinson's disease. Aspen is also developing a gene-edited autologous neuron therapy (ANPD002) that is in the research stage and targeted toward familial forms of Parkinson's disease beginning with the most common genetic variant in the gene encoding glucocerebrosidase (GBA). Aspen leverages proprietary machine-learning tools and artificial intelligence to ensure quality control during manufacturing and to deliver a safe and reproducible product for each cell line.

"Aspen's financial backing, combined with its experienced and proven leadership team, positions it well for future success," said Kim P. Kamdar, Ph.D., Partner at Domain Associates, one of Aspen's seed investors. "Domain prides itself on investing in companies that can translate scientific research into innovative medicines and therapies that make a difference in people's lives. We clearly see Aspen as fitting into that category, as it is the only company using a patient's own cells for replacement therapy in Parkinson's disease."

About Aspen Neuroscience

Aspen Neuroscience Inc. is a development stage, private biotechnology company that uses innovative genomic approaches combined with stem cell biology to deliver patient-specific, restorative cell therapies that modify the course of Parkinson's disease. Aspen's therapies are based upon the scientific work of world-renowned stem cell scientist, Dr. Jeanne Loring, who has developed a novel method for autologous neuron replacement. For more information and important updates, please visithttp://www.aspenneuroscience.com.

CONTACT: Jennifer Viera, AspenNeuroscience@TeamSeismic.com

SOURCE Aspen Neuroscience

http://www.aspenneuroscience.com

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Aspen Neuroscience Launches With $6.5 Million Seed Funding to Advance First-of-its-Kind Personalized Cell Therapy for Parkinson's Disease - PRNewswire

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on Aspen Neuroscience Launches With $6.5 Million Seed Funding to Advance First-of-its-Kind Personalized Cell Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease – PRNewswire | December 14th, 2019

A hockey player paralyzed in the Humboldt Broncos bus crash says it feels good to be home after spending five weeks in Thailand, where he underwent spinal surgery.

It feels good. I mean I felt that cold, cold wind hit my legs, so Im feeling good. Its good to be back, Ryan Straschnitzki said Sunday night as he wheeled himself into the Calgary airport.

The 20-year-old from Airdrie, Alta., who is paralyzed from the chest down, had an epidural stimulator implanted in his spine while he was in Bangkok. A week later, doctors also injected stem cells above and below his spinal injury to try to reverse some of the damage.

Videos posted by Straschnitzki and his father in Thailand show him straightening a leg. In another, Straschnitzki kicks a ball.

In another clip, while hes strapped into a harness, physiotherapists slowly help him walk with a wheeled machine.

It was incredible. I mean the last time I walked beside my dad was before the accident and before I moved away, said Straschnitzki. So doing that again and just seeing the look in his eyes is motivating to me.

Straschnitzki was one of 13 players injured when a semi truck blew through a stop sign and into the path of his junior hockey teams bus at a rural intersection in Saskatchewan in April 2018.

Sixteen others on the bus were killed.

READ MORE: Paralyzed Humboldt Broncos player to get spinal surgery in Thailand

Tom Straschnitzki said hes not an emotional guy, but watching the progress his son made in Thailand has given him hope.

When I actually saw him move his leg, it just took me back to imagining his last steps going onto that bus on that fateful day. And I was just thinking maybe he can go back on the bus one day, he said.

The surgery can cost up to $100,000 but isnt covered by public health care or insurance, because it has not been approved by Health Canada. The Straschnitzkis say theyre frustrated the treatment isnt available here.

Ryan Straschnitzki hopes his experience might at least get the conversation going.

Our health-care system is kind of lacking in this area for spinal cord injuries and I think its huge that Thailand and some other places are getting this started, he said.

I think if Canada can step in and advance this program, I think itll help a lot of people out.

Tom and Michelle Straschnitzki said they have been flooded with comments and questions about their sons procedure.

They want to try it and ask why doesnt Canada do it? I dont have the answer about Canada but they do it in Thailand and it is not experimental, said Tom Straschnitzki.

Health Canada has said it provides licensed spinal cord stimulators but only for pain relief. A spokesman said it has not received an application to have stimulators used to regain motor skills.

READ MORE: Loss for words Injured Bronco shocked, excited over effect of spinal surgery

Ryan Straschnitzki said he isnt expecting a cure but hopes his implant will restore some muscle movement.

Just getting that feeling of being able to move something that I wasnt able to move before and I know core is a huge part of my disability, so anything below my chest is crucial. And after the programming it really helped, he said.

Straschnitzki is hoping to make the Canadian sledge hockey team and compete in the Olympics. He even took his sled with him to Thailand and sat in it as part of his rehabilitation there.

He said he plans to take a few days off before returning to physiotherapy and hitting the ice again back home.

Bill Graveland, The Canadian Press

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Kind of lacking: Injured Bronco wonders why Canada wont fund spinal surgery - Houston Today

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on Kind of lacking: Injured Bronco wonders why Canada wont fund spinal surgery – Houston Today | December 14th, 2019

Biomedical engineers at Duke University have developed a system that allows for real-time observations of individual cells in the colon of a living mouse.

Researchers expect the procedure to allow new investigations into the digestive systems microbiome as well as the causes of diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer and their treatments.

The procedure described online on December 11 in Nature Communications involves surgically implanting a transparent window into a mouses abdominal skin above the colon. Similar setups are already being used to allow live looks into the detailed inner workings of the brain, spinal cord, liver, lungs and other organs. Imaging a live colon, however, is a slipperier proposition.

A brain doesnt move around a lot, but the colon does, which makes it difficult to get detailed images down to a single cell, said Xiling Shen, the Hawkins Family Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Duke University. Weve developed a magnetic system that is strong enough to stabilize the colon in place during imaging to obtain this level of resolution, but can quickly be turned off to allow the colon to move freely.

Immobilizing the colon for imaging is a tricky task for traditional methods such as glue or stitches. At best they can cause inflammation that would ruin most experiments. At worst they can cause obstructions, which can quickly kill the mouse being studied.

To skirt this issue, Shen developed a magnetic device that looks much like a tiny metal nasal strip and can be safely attached to the colon. A magnetic field snaps the colon into place and keeps it stable during imaging, but once turned off, leaves the colon free to move and function as normal.

A vital organ that houses much of the digestive systems microbiome, the colon can be afflicted by diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, functional gastrointestinal disorders and cancer. It also plays a key role in regulating the immune system, and can communicate directly with the brain through sacral nerves.

There is a great need to better understand the colon, because it can suffer from so many diseases and plays so many roles with significant health implications, Shen said.

In the study, Shen and his colleagues conducted several proof-of-principle experiments that provide starting points for future lines of research.

The researchers first colonized a living mouse colon with E. coli bacteria, derived from Crohns disease patients, that had been tagged with fluorescent proteins. The researchers then showed they could track the migration, growth and decline of the bacteria for more than three days. This ability could help researchers understand not only how antagonistic bacteria afflict the colon, Shen says, but the positive roles probiotics can play and which strains can best help people with gastrointestinal disorders.

In the next experiment, mice were bred with several types of fluorescent immune cells. The researchers then induced inflammation in the colon and carefully watched the activation of these immune cells. Shen says, this approach could be used with various types of immune cells and diseases to gain a better understanding of how the immune system responds to challenges.

Shen and his colleagues then showed that they could tag and track colon epithelial stem cells associated with colorectal cancer throughout radiation treatment. They also demonstrated that they could watch nerves throughout the colon respond to sacral nerve stimulation, an emerging therapy for treating motility and immune disorders such as functional gastrointestinal disorders and irritable bowel disorder.

While we know electrically stimulating the sacral nerves can alleviate the symptoms of these gastrointestinal disorders, we currently have no idea why or any way to optimize these treatments, Shen said. Being able to see how the colons neurons respond to different waveforms, frequencies and amplitudes of stimulation will be invaluable in making this approach a better option for more patients.

This work was supported by National Institutes of Health (R35GM122465, OT2OD023849), the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (N66001-15-2-4059) and the National Cancer Institutes (R35CA197616).

An Intravital Window to Image the Colon in Real Time, Nikolai Rakhilin, Aliesha Garrett, Chi-Yong Eom, Katherine Ramos C., David M. Small, Andrea R. Daniel, Melanie M. Kaelberer, Menansili A. Mejooli, Qiang Huang, Shengli Ding, David G. Kirsch, Diego V. Bohrquez, Nozomi Nishimura, Bradley B. Barth, and Xiling Shen. Nature Communications, 2019. DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-13699-w

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A Window into the Hidden World of Colons - Duke Today

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on A Window into the Hidden World of Colons – Duke Today | December 14th, 2019

A recent report published by Infinium Global Research on cell therapy market provides in-depth analysis of segments and sub-segments in the global as well as regional cell therapy market.

This press release was orginally distributed by SBWire

Pune, India -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/13/2019 -- The Infinium Global Research analyzes the "Cell Therapy Market (Cell Type - Stem Cell, and Differentiated Cell; Therapy Type - Allogenic Therapies, and Autologous Therapies; Application - Autoimmune Diseases, Oncology, Dermatology, Musculoskeletal Therapies, and Other Applications; End-users - Hospitals and Clinics, Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Companies, and Research Institutes): Global Industry Analysis, Trends, Size, Share and Forecasts to 2025."

For More Details Get FREE Sample Pages of this Research Report@ https://www.infiniumglobalresearch.com/reports/sample-request/12810

Cell therapy is the transplantation of human cells to replace or repair damaged tissue or cells. With new technologies, products, innovative, and limitless imagination. Cells used for cell therapy often stem cells, cells that can mature into different types of specialized cells. The most common type of cell therapy has been the replacement of mature, functioning cells through blood and platelet transfusions. Cell therapies treat cancer, improving a weakened immune system, autoimmune disease, rebuilding damaged cartilage in joints, urinary problems, and infectious disease, repairing spinal cord injuries, and helping patients with neurological disorders.

Automation in Cell Therapy Manufacturing Providing Intensive Opportunities in the Cell Therapy Market

The rising occurrence of chronic diseases across the globe is the major driver for the growth of the global cell therapy market. Moreover, increasing the geriatric population, increase in cell therapy transplantation rate, and replacement of animal testing model are some of the key factors fueling the market growth. Furthermore, increasing awareness of stem cell therapy and the development of cell banking facilities contributing to the growth of the global cell therapy market.

Moreover, technological advancements and improvements in the regulatory framework continuously provide to the growing market. However, challenges in research and development, lack of proper and advanced healthcare in developing regions may hinder market growth. Furthermore, automation in cell therapy manufacturing providing intensive opportunities in the cell therapy market in the coming years.

Request a Discount on Standard Prices of this Premium Report @ https://www.infiniumglobalresearch.com/reports/request-discount/12810

Stem Cell Therapy is Expected to Hold Maximum Share in the Cell Therapy Market

The global cell therapy market is segmented on the basis of type, therapy, application, and end-user. Types are further segmented into stem cells and differentiated cells. Stem cell therapy is expected to hold maximum share in the cell therapy market. Stem cell therapies having several advantages like regenerating the body organisms and other cells, which contributes to the growth of the stem cell therapies market.

By therapy, the cell therapy market is segmented into allogeneic therapies and autologous therapies. On the basis of application, the market is further divided into autoimmune diseases, oncology, dermatology, musculoskeletal therapies, and other applications. Based on end-users, the market is hospitals and clinics, biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, and Research Institutes.

North America is Leading the Market Share in the Cell Therapy Market

The cell therapy market is segmented regionally into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World. North America is leading the market share in the cell therapy market due to the high rate of cancer and blood-related disorders coupled with high investments in the research and development of novel technologies. North America has a firm healthcare organization that acts as an added advantage for the growth of the market in this region.

Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to stimulate the growth of the cell therapy market due to a large number of surgeries performed in this region. Rising awareness about advanced medicinal therapies contributes to the growth of the market in the Asia-Pacific region.

Browse Detailed TOC and Description of this Exclusive Report@ https://www.infiniumglobalresearch.com/healthcare-medical-devices/global-cell-therapy-market

Cell Therapy Market: Competitive Analysis

The leading players in the cell therapy market are NuVasive, Inc., Kolon TissueGene, Inc., JCR Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Osiris Therapeutics, Inc., Stemedica Cell Technologies, Inc., MEDIPOST, Stemedica Cell Technologies, Inc., Celgene Corporation, ANTEROGEN.CO., LTD, Vericel Corporation. These companies are adopting strategic partnerships to enhance their product portfolio.

Reasons to Buy this Report:

=> Comprehensive analysis of global as well as regional markets of the cell therapy.

=> Complete coverage of all the product type and application segments to analyze the trends, developments, and forecast of market size up to 2025.

=> Comprehensive analysis of the companies operating in this market. The company profile includes analysis of product portfolio, revenue, SWOT analysis and the latest developments of the company.

=> Infinium Global Research- Growth Matrix presents an analysis of the product segments and geographies that market players should focus to invest, consolidate, expand and/or diversify.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/automation-in-cell-therapy-manufacturing-is-driving-the-growth-of-the-cell-therapy-market-over-the-forecast-period-2019-2025-1267918.htm

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Automation in Cell Therapy Manufacturing Is Driving the Growth of the Cell Therapy Market over the Forecast Period (2019-2025) - Press Release -...

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on Automation in Cell Therapy Manufacturing Is Driving the Growth of the Cell Therapy Market over the Forecast Period (2019-2025) – Press Release -… | December 14th, 2019

Co-founded by World-Renowned Stem Cell Scientist Jeanne F. Loring, Ph.D. and Andres Bratt-Leal, Ph.D.

Led by Chief Executive Officer Howard Federoff, M.D., Ph.D., Former Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs and Chief Executive Officer of the University of California Irvine Health System

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 12, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Aspen Neuroscience, Inc. today announced its launch following a $6.5 million seed round led by Domain Associates and Axon Ventures and including Alexandria Venture Investments,Arch Venture Partners,OrbiMedand Section 32 to develop the first autologous cell therapies for Parkinson's disease. Aspen's proprietary approach was developed by the company's co-founders, Jeanne F. Loring, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus and founding director of the Center for Regenerative Medicine at The Scripps Research Institute, and Andres Bratt-Leal, Ph.D., a former post-doctoral researcher in Dr. Loring's lab. The company was initially supported by Summit for Stem Cell, a founding partner and non-profit organization which provides a variety of services for people with Parkinson's disease. Aspen is led by industry veteran Howard J. Federoff, M.D., Ph.D., as Chief Executive Officer.

Aspen Neuroscience Inc. is a development stage, private biotechnology company that uses innovative genomic approaches combined with stem cell biology to deliver patient-specific, restorative cell therapies that modify the course of Parkinsons disease. Aspens therapies are based upon the scientific work of world-renowned stem cell scientist, Dr. Jeanne Loring, who has developed a novel method for autologous neuron replacement.

Parkinson's disease is characterized by the loss of specific brain cells that make the chemical dopamine. Without dopamine, nerve cells cannot communicate with muscles and people are left with debilitating motor problems. Aspen is focusing on human pluripotent stem cells, cultured cells that can become any cell type in the human body. The company's research is specific to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which it develops by taking a skin biopsy from a person with Parkinson's disease and turning the tissue into pluripotent stem cells using genetic engineering. Aspen then differentiates the pluripotent stem cells into dopamine-releasing neurons that can be transplanted into that same person (autologous), thereby restoring the types of neurons lost in Parkinson's disease.

As an autologous cell therapy for Parkinson's disease, Aspen's treatment would eliminate the need for immunosuppression because the neurons are transplanted back into the same patient from which they were generated. The use of immunosuppression is necessary with currently available cell therapies for Parkinson's disease and when transplanting cells from one patient to another (allogeneic) to prevent rejection but can pre-dispose the patient to life-threatening complications including infection and add cost to the patient and health system. Aspen is the only company in the world offering an autologous neuron replacement therapy for Parkinson's disease.

Aspen encompasses a powerful executive leadership team including Dr. Federoff who, in addition to his leadership roles at the UC Irvine Health System, was the Executive Vice President for Health Sciences and the Executive Dean of Medicine at Georgetown University. Dr. Federoff also has significant biotech industry experience including co-founding MedGenesis Therapeutix and Brain Neurotherapy Bio, as well as leading the U.S. Parkinson's Disease Gene Therapy Study Group. The company is also proud to announce the addition of several experienced and well-known members to its leadership team including Edward Wirth, M.D., Ph.D., as Chief Medical Officer.

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Dr. Wirth currently serves as the Chief Medical Ofcer for Lineage Cell Therapeutics where he oversees clinical development of its two therapeutic programs for spinal cord injuries and lung cancer. He received his M.D. and Ph.D. from the University of Florida in 1994 and remained to conduct postdoctoral research including leading the University of Florida team that performed the rst human embryonic spinal cord transplant in the U.S. Dr. Wirth went on to serve as the Medical Director for Regenerative Medicine at Geron Corporation where the world's rst clinical trial of human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived product occurred which demonstrated initial clinical safety.

Drs. Federoff and Wirth are joined by Dr. Loring, as Chief Scientific Officer; Jay Sial, as Chief Financial Officer; Andres Bratt-Leal, Ph.D., as Vice President of Research and Development; Thorsten Gorba, Ph.D., as Senior Director of Manufacturing and Naveen M. Krishnan, M.D., M.Phil., as Senior Director of Corporate Development.

"Aspen is developing a restorative, disease modifying autologous neuron therapy for people suffering from Parkinson's disease," said Dr. Federoff. "We are fortunate to have such a high-caliber scientific and medical leadership team to make our treatments a reality. Our cell replacement therapy, which originated in the laboratory of Dr. Jeanne Loring and was later supported by Summit for Stem Cell and its President, Ms. Jenifer Raub, has the potential to release dopamine and reconstruct neural networks where no disease-modifying therapies exist."

Aspen's lead product (ANPD001) is currently undergoing investigational new drug (IND)-enabling studies for the treatment of sporadic Parkinson's disease. Aspen is also developing a gene-edited autologous neuron therapy (ANPD002) that is in the research stage and targeted toward familial forms of Parkinson's disease beginning with the most common genetic variant in the gene encoding glucocerebrosidase (GBA). Aspen leverages proprietary machine-learning tools and artificial intelligence to ensure quality control during manufacturing and to deliver a safe and reproducible product for each cell line.

"Aspen's financial backing, combined with its experienced and proven leadership team, positions it well for future success," said Kim P. Kamdar, Ph.D., Partner at Domain Associates, one of Aspen's seed investors. "Domain prides itself on investing in companies that can translate scientific research into innovative medicines and therapies that make a difference in people's lives. We clearly see Aspen as fitting into that category, as it is the only company using a patient's own cells for replacement therapy in Parkinson's disease."

About Aspen Neuroscience

Aspen Neuroscience Inc. is a development stage, private biotechnology company that uses innovative genomic approaches combined with stem cell biology to deliver patient-specific, restorative cell therapies that modify the course of Parkinson's disease. Aspen's therapies are based upon the scientific work of world-renowned stem cell scientist, Dr. Jeanne Loring, who has developed a novel method for autologous neuron replacement. For more information and important updates, please visithttp://www.aspenneuroscience.com.

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Aspen Neuroscience Launches With $6.5 Million Seed Funding to Advance First-of-its-Kind Personalized Cell Therapy for Parkinson's Disease - Yahoo...

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JavaScript is disabled on your browser. Please enable JavaScript to use all the features on this page.Highlights

Transplantation of iPSC-derived neural precursor cells (NPCs) shows beneficial effects for spinal cord injury (SCI).

Because unsafe iPSC-NPC lines can form tumors after grafting, provisions to attenuate this risk are substantially important.

Clinical application for SCI patients using iPSCs will be conducted in the near future.

For the past few decades, spinal cord injury (SCI) has been believed to be an incurable traumatic condition, but with recent developments in stem cell biology, the field of regenerative medicine has gained hopeful momentum in the development of a treatment for this challenging pathology. Among the treatment candidates, transplantation of neural precursor cells has gained remarkable attention as a reasonable therapeutic intervention to replace the damaged central nervous system cells and promote functional recovery. Here, we highlight transplantation therapy techniques using induced pluripotent stem cells to treat SCI and review the recent research giving consideration to future clinical applications.

Spinal cord injury

Neural precursor cells

Induced pluripotent stem cells

Clinical application

neural precursor cells

induced pluripotent stem cells

high mobility group box-1

swine leukocyte antigen

mixed lymphocyte reaction

human leukocyte antigen

peripheral blood mononuclear cells

directly reprogrammed neural precursor cells

-secretase inhibitor

herpes simplex virus type I thymidine kinase

oligodendrocyte progenitor cells

the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application

American Spinal Injury Association

chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans

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2019 The Japanese Society for Regenerative Medicine. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V.

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ESPCs derived from pig provide important implications for developmental biology, organ transplantation, regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and screening for drugs.

FREMONT, CA: Stem cell therapy, usually applied to humans, is now extended to animals too. It is a regenerative treatment applied to cats, dogs, pigs, and other animals. It includes removing cells from bone marrow, blood or fat, umbilical cords, and the cell can grow into any kind of cell and can repair damaged tissues. The regenerative therapy has been successful in animals. It can be used mainly for the treatment of spinal cord and bone injuries along with the problems with tendons, ligaments, and joints. One of the breakthroughs is the embryonic stem cell lines obtained from the pig.

Scientists have derived Expanded Potential Stem Cells (EPSCs) from pig embryos for the first time. They offer the groundbreaking potential to study embryonic development and produce translational research in genomics and regenerative medicine. Embryonic stem cells (ESC) are derived from the inner cells of early embryos called blastocysts. They are pluripotent cells as they can develop into various cell types of the body in the culture dish. The newly derived porcine EPSCs isolated from pig embryos are the first well-characterized cell lines worldwide. Their pluripotent ability provides important implications for developmental biology, organ transplantation, regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and screening for drugs.

The stem cells can renew themselves, showing that they can be kept in culture indefinitely while showing the typical morphology and gene expression patterns of embryonic stem cells. Because somatic cells have a limited lifespan, they cannot be used for such applications, and therefore the new stem cells are better suited for the lengthy selection process. These porcine stem cell lines can easily be edited with new genome editing techniques like CRISPR/Cas, and are currently the simplest, most versatile and precise method of genetic manipulation.

The EPSCs have a greater capacity to develop into numerous cell types of the organism as well as into extraembryonic tissue, the trophoblasts, rending them very unique and, thus, their name. This capacity is valuable for the future promising organoid technology where organ-like small cell aggregations are grown in 3D aggregates and used for research into early embryo development, various disease models, and testing of new drugs in Petri dishes. Also, they offer a unique possibility to investigate functions or diseases of the placenta in vitro.

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How Will Animals Get Benefitted by Stem Cell Therapy? - Medical Tech Outlook

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Parkinsons disease is characterized by the loss of specific brain cells that make the chemical dopamine. Without dopamine, nerve cells cannot communicate with muscles and people are left with debilitating motor problems. Aspen is focusing on human pluripotent stem cells, cultured cells that can become any cell type in the human body. Many health technology startups are on the raise to cure this disease. At the forefront is Aspen Neuroscience, a healthtech startup developing first-of-its-kind personalized cell therapy for Parkinsons disease.

Aspen Neuroscience is a development stage, private biotechnology company that uses innovative genomic approaches combined with stem cell biology to deliver patient-specific, restorative cell therapies that modify the course of Parkinsons disease.

Today,Aspen Neuroscience announced its official launch with $6.5 million seed financingto develop the first autologous cell therapies for Parkinsons disease.The round was led by Domain Associates and Axon Ventures and including Alexandria Venture Investments, Arch Venture Partners, OrbiMed and others.

Aspens proprietary approach was developed by the companys co-founders, Jeanne F. Loring, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus and founding director of the Center for Regenerative Medicine at The Scripps Research Institute, and Andres Bratt-Leal, Ph.D., a former post-doctoral researcher in Dr. Lorings lab. The company was initially supported by Summit for Stem Cell, a founding partner and non-profit organization which provides a variety of services for people with Parkinsons disease. Aspen is led by industry veteran Howard J. Federoff, M.D., Ph.D., as Chief Executive Officer.

The companys research is specific to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which it develops by taking a skin biopsy from a person with Parkinsons disease and turning the tissue into pluripotent stem cells using genetic engineering. Aspen then differentiates the pluripotent stem cells into dopamine-releasing neurons that can be transplanted into that same person (autologous), thereby restoring the types of neurons lost in Parkinsons disease.

As an autologous cell therapy for Parkinsons disease, Aspens treatment would eliminate the need for immunosuppression because the neurons are transplanted back into the same patient from which they were generated. The use of immunosuppression is necessary with currently available cell therapies for Parkinsons disease and when transplanting cells from one patient to another (allogeneic) to prevent rejection but can pre-dispose the patient to life-threatening complications including infection and add cost to the patient and health system. Aspen is the only company in the world offering an autologous neuron replacement therapy for Parkinsons disease.

Aspen encompasses a powerful executive leadership team including Dr. Federoff who, in addition to his leadership roles at the UC Irvine Health System, was the Executive Vice President for Health Sciences and the Executive Dean of Medicine at Georgetown University. Dr. Federoff also has significant biotech industry experience including co-founding MedGenesis Therapeutix and Brain Neurotherapy Bio, as well as leading the U.S. Parkinsons Disease Gene Therapy Study Group. The company is also proud to announce the addition of several experienced and well-known members to its leadership team including Edward Wirth, M.D., Ph.D., as Chief Medical Officer.

Dr. Wirth currently serves as the Chief Medical Ofcer for Lineage Cell Therapeutics where he oversees clinical development of its two therapeutic programs for spinal cord injuries and lung cancer. He received his M.D. and Ph.D. from the University of Florida in 1994 and remained to conduct postdoctoral research including leading the University of Florida team that performed the rst human embryonic spinal cord transplant in the U.S. Dr. Wirth went on to serve as the Medical Director for Regenerative Medicine at Geron Corporation where the worlds rst clinical trial of human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived product occurred which demonstrated initial clinical safety.

Drs. Federoff and Wirth are joined by Dr. Loring, as Chief Scientific Officer; Jay Sial, as Chief Financial Officer; Andres Bratt-Leal, Ph.D., as Vice President of Research and Development; Thorsten Gorba, Ph.D., as Senior Director of Manufacturing and Naveen M. Krishnan, M.D., M.Phil., as Senior Director of Corporate Development.

Aspen is developing a restorative, disease modifying autologous neuron therapy for people suffering from Parkinsons disease, said Dr. Federoff. We are fortunate to have such a high-caliber scientific and medical leadership team to make our treatments a reality. Our cell replacement therapy, which originated in the laboratory of Dr. Jeanne Loring and was later supported by Summit for Stem Cell and its President, Ms. Jenifer Raub, has the potential to release dopamine and reconstruct neural networks where no disease-modifying therapies exist.

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Aspen Neuroscience launches with $6.5M seed funding to develop personalized and autologous cell therapy for Parkinson's disease - TechStartups.com

Spinal Cord Stem Cells Comments Off on Aspen Neuroscience launches with $6.5M seed funding to develop personalized and autologous cell therapy for Parkinson’s disease – TechStartups.com | December 12th, 2019