Three research groups have reported that they were able to reprogram mature cells found in the tips of mouse tails in a way that gave them the same versatility of embryonic stem cells. The scientists turned on four genes that are active in embryos, and those cells were used to help grow new mice. If the same approach works in humans, the breakthrough will allow for the creation of new stem cell lines that can be used in research without drawing the ire of social conservatives and with the blessings--and financial support--of the federal government. Stem cell research is underway in a variety of diseases.
- read the Los Angeles Times article
ALSO: The latest news from the research front-along with California's shift of gears--has analysts excited about the prospects for rapid growth in the stem cell field. But behind the headlines, you can still expect to see plenty of slow, painstaking progress on the science front. Stem cell therapies won't jump from animal studies to human use overnight. Report
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