Feds press ahead with plans to expand stem cell support; Hep B vaccine at birth guards against liver cancer;

Stem Cell Research

Officials in the U.S. are pressing ahead with plans to expand the number of cell lines that qualify for federal research support. Report

The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine has struck its sixth international deal, this time clearing the way for German and U.S. scientists to work together on collaborative projects. Story

Shares of Neuralstem soared on Monday after the company announced that it had gained the FDA's approval to start the first human trial of a stem cell therapy for ALS. Story

Fluidigm will provide the latest updates for its upcoming Stem Cell Culture Chip at the World Stem Cell Summit. This specialized integrated fluidic circuit will enable a variety of cell culture applications, including allowing stem cell researchers to simplify and automate protocols for turning differentiated cells into stem cells, and later fine tuning the reprogramming of those stem cells into targeted differentiated cells. Release

Genetics

Researchers recently were able to give monkey full color sight by adding a gene for the missing red pigment. Report

Nine new genes have been linked to a higher risk of prostate cancer, adding to the targets developers now have for the disease. Story

Genes previously known to be essential to the coordinated, rhythmic electrical activity of cardiac muscle--a healthy heartbeat--have now also been found to play a key role in thyroid hormone biosynthesis, according to Weill Cornell Medical College researchers. Report

Cancer Research

Taiwanese researchers have concluded that a hepatitis B vaccine at birth can significantly reduce a person's chances of developing liver cancer later in life. Report

One group of patients with a high risk of colon cancer can guard themselves with a daily dose of aspirin. Story