Aristotle At CIRM we are always happy to highlight success stories, particularly when they involve research we are funding. But we are also mindful of the need not to overstate a finding. To quote the Greek philosopher Aristotle (who doesn’t often make an appearance on this blog), “one swallow does not a summer make”. In … Continue reading Promising start to CIRM-funded trial for life-threatening blood disorder
genetic mutation
Stanford scientists devise an algorithm that identifies gene pairs associated with cancer
Using data from human tumor samples, Stanford scientists have developed a new computer algorithm to identify pairs of genes that cause cancer. Their research aims to identify alternative ways to target cancer-causing mutations that have thus far evaded effective clinical treatment. The study, which was published this week in Nature Communications, was led by senior … Continue reading Stanford scientists devise an algorithm that identifies gene pairs associated with cancer
New study says stem cells derived from older people may have more problems than we thought.
Ever since 2006 when Japanese researcher Shinya Yamanaka showed that you could take an adult cell, such as those in your skin, and reprogram it to act like an embryonic stem cell, the scientific world has looked at these induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells as a potential game changer. They had the ability to convert … Continue reading New study says stem cells derived from older people may have more problems than we thought.
Unlocking the brain’s secrets: scientists find over 100 unique mutations in brain cells
Your brain is made up of approximately 100 billion neurons. These are the cells that process information and pass along electrical and chemical signals to their other neuron buddies throughout the body to coordinate thoughts, movement, and many other functions. It’s no small task to create the intricate neuronal network that is the backbone of … Continue reading Unlocking the brain’s secrets: scientists find over 100 unique mutations in brain cells
CIRM-funded study suggests methods to make pluripotent stem cells are safe
We live in an era where stem cell treatments are already being tested in human clinical trials for eye disease, spinal cord injury, and type 1 diabetes. The hope is that transplanting stem cells or their cell derivatives will replace diseased tissue, restore function, and cure patients – all while being safe and without causing … Continue reading CIRM-funded study suggests methods to make pluripotent stem cells are safe
Stem cells could offer hope for deadly childhood muscle wasting disease
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a particularly nasty rare and fatal disease. It predominantly affects boys, slowly robbing them of their ability to control their muscles. By 10 years of age, boys with DMD start to lose the ability to walk; by 12, most need a wheelchair to get around. Eventually they become paralyzed, and … Continue reading Stem cells could offer hope for deadly childhood muscle wasting disease
The Stem Cellar 