How to Become a Stem Cell Test Patient

Hopes are high for stem-cell-research backers, as companies hoping to test their stem cells in humans finally gained the permission they had been seeking for years from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2009. Now, hundreds of clinical trials on these base cells, which can develop into any type of cell in the body, are ongoing. Here are some tips for patients wanting to become part of those trials.

Instructions

Finding clinical trials

• 1

  Check clinicaltrials.gov. This registry of clinical trials includes both federally-and privately-funded trials in the United States and worldwide. The site offers detailed descriptions of planned studies, eligibility criteria and contact information for interested volunteers. If you find one that seems to address your concerns, discuss with your doctor the potential costs and benefits of your participation.

• 2

  Ask your doctor. Because the research area is so new, your doctor might know off-hand if any stem-cell clinical trials are ongoing for your condition. The first two studies underway were for crushed spinal injury and Stargardt's macular dystrophy, a type of degenerative blindness. Geron Corp. of California plans to use stem cells to regrow nerve tissue in patients with crushed spinal cords. Advanced Cell Technology of Massachusetts received approval from the FDA to use the stem cells to treat patients with Stargardt's macular dystrophy.

• 3

  Educate yourself. There is a wealth of new information emerging about stem cells, even as controversy about their use surrounds the research. Before you can make an informed decision to participate in any study, even one your doctor recommends, you should read up on stem cells. Check stemcells.nih.gov/info.