Stem Cell Research

Stem Cell Research

Embryonic stem cells have the ability to become any of the body's cell types, and so offer tremendous promise for treating many degenerative diseases and nervous system injuries. In the case of spinal cord injury, embryonic stem cells could eventually be used to replace nerve cells.

In the early days of stem cell research, RIRC scientists collaborated with biotech companies to develop techniques to differentiate human stem cells into cell types that would be useful for transplantation and then tested their effectiveness in improving function in rodent models of SCI. These early studies were the foundation for the world’s first FDA-approved clinical trial of a therapy based on human embryonic stem cells and the world’s first clinical trial of stem cell therapy for chronic spinal cord injury. Both these trials are ongoing.

Now, RIRC scientists are testing approaches that use stem cells to create bridges across injury sites and re-establish function in the injured spinal cord to reverse paralysis.

Oswald Steward, Ph.D.

Dr. Steward's Lab

Oswald Steward is known for his research on molecular mechanisms of nerve cell regeneration in the injured spinal cord. His approach combines interventions to modify gene expression with the use of stem cell transplants to restore connections that were damaged by injury.

Oswald Steward, Ph.D.
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