Cell Research Projects

Human stem cells have the potential to develop into many different types of specialist cells when they divide, including all varieties of brain cell. Although there has been a great deal of controversy over stem cell research, particularly the idea of cloning embryos to use in research projects, scientists around the world are working on cell research projects that will hopefully enable them to learn more about a variety of diseases, and find new ways of treating them.

The Institute for Stem Cell Research, University of Edinburgh

• This institute conducts research that provides a basic knowledge and understanding of stem cells, and their potential usage in regenerative therapies for the treatment of human diseases and injuries. Scientists are studying issues such as embryonic patterning, stem cell genetics, developmental immunology, genome engineering and embryonic development.

Cell Research in Dementia

• There is currently no cure for dementia. The condition causes brain cells to become irreversibly damaged or destroyed, which leads to a deterioration in brain function. By studying the brain cells of dementia sufferers, scientists can learn more about the genetics and biochemistry of the disease. Some research facilities, including the University of Central Florida, are also investigating the possibility that damaged cells can be replaced with new stem cells, although this research is still at a very early stage. At University College, London, Professor Bill Richardson is conducting research on immature brain cells known as OLPs (oligodendrocyte progenitor cells), which can continually divide and create new cells, as an alternative to using stem cells for reversing brain damage caused by dementia.

Cell Research in Parkinson's Disease

• Parkinson's disease is a progressive disorder of the central neural system. Our bodies require a substance called dopamine to transmit the electrical signals that control normal movement. Parkinson's sufferers do not produce sufficient quantities of dopamine, which results in abnormal movement. Current university research programs, financed by the Parkinson's Society, are primarily aimed at identifying the genes associated with the disease, and finding an effective method of growing or transplanting new dopamine-producing cells. This research is still experimental, but scientists believe that it is definitely a realistic possibility.

Cell Research in Heart Disease

• According to a 2007 report published by the American Heart Association Statistics Committee, ischemic heart disease is a primary cause of death in all developed nations. Research institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania are investigating whether stem cell transplantation therapy could be an effective method of treating cardiac disease. The theory is that, by replacing damaged myocytes, cardiac function would improve. Experimental treatments, including intracoronary and intravenous delivery of stem cells to the heart, are currently being tested and compared.