Researchers at Wake Forest University and Harvard University reported the stem cells they drew from amniotic fluid donated by pregnant women hold much the same promise as embryonic stem cells.
They reported they were able to extract the stem cells without harm to mother or fetus and turn their discovery into several different tissue cell types, including brain, liver and bone.
"Our hope is that these cells will provide a valuable resource for tissue repair and for engineered organs as well," said Dr. Anthony Atala, head of Wake Forest's regenerative medicine institute and senior researcher on the project.
It took 'em seven years to figure out how to extract the cells, but it sounds promising.
1
Bad news for politicians? Nah... we can afford to start engineering organs.
We can get the Scarecrow her brain, the Tinman his heart... and maybe the cowardly lion a set of balls.
Posted by: Sniper One at January 08, 2007 11:44 AM (K/uDH)
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You have to be more specific. Too many politicians fit those descriptions.
If they are like embryonic stem cells, we've just found an easier way to make tumors. About time!
Posted by: Darrell at January 08, 2007 01:56 PM (Xk/uB)
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It will be bad for liberal politicians, who back embryonic stem cells simply because it helps with their abortion on demand agenda.
Posted by: William Teach at January 08, 2007 06:18 PM (doAuV)
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I'm not so sure about that: the embryos that get used for stem cell research are a drop in the bucket, compared to how many we destroy every year.
I don't see a real link, there. Abortion is driven by a cultural imperative.
Posted by: Attila Girl at January 08, 2007 06:45 PM (0CbUL)
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True. Perhaps it is a bit too much of the talking points, but I just have to wonder why the Liberals have latched on to ESC's, while ignoring Adult and placental.
Hopefully, amniotic SC's will provide the promise that ESC's have, without the massive, prevelant tumors.
Posted by: William Teach at January 10, 2007 07:32 AM (doAuV)
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They've latched on to ESCs in order to defeat Bush. The MSM has been conducting a disinformation campaign designed to paint Bush as an uncaring boob--one without compassion for the sick and suffering. Ever notice how they omit the word "adult" when they discuss stem cell successes? Know how many human trials with ESCs are in progress, or how many are awaiting launch? Zero. Do we need an endless supply of embryos if we are going to pursue ESC research. No. Any cell can be cultured indefinitely. If there were problems with how some SC lines were preserved, those lines could be discarded and others chosen to take their place. The only reason for unrestrained procurement is for patent purposes. It's easy to keep track of DNA if you are concerned about others staling your ideas. Are the Dems protecting Big Pharmaceuticals? Hardly. Just anti-Bush. And it's working! Funny how having the Press in your pocket can work wonders for propaganda purposes!
Excess body fat can be a source of adult stem cells. Any takers? Anyone see a plan coming together?
Posted by: Darrell at January 10, 2007 08:34 PM (KReVz)
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