Stem cell therapies: a tale of caution.
One of the most exciting possibilities in human therapeutics is that stem cells (embryonic or adult) may compensate for cell loss in disease, with functional recovery. This has received considerable publicity in the lay press. Much work remains to be done to turn stem cell therapy into a practical reality for major degenerative diseases, especially those affecting the nervous system. Medical scientists and journalists should work together in ensuring that the general public has a realistic understanding of the likely time frame in which benefits from stem cell therapies will be realised.
Byrne
Edward
E
Centre for Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC. e.byrne@cns.unimelb.edu.au
Howells
David W
DW
D002493:Central Nervous System Diseases / Q000628:therapy; D018380:Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation; D006801:Humans; D020388:Muscular Dystrophy, Duchenne / Q000628:therapy; D033581:Stem Cell Transplantation