On the recordSeptember 29, 2010
Next week, scientists, researchers, industry leaders and advocates from around the world will gather in Detroit, MI, for the sixth annual World Stem Cell Summit. By bringing together experts in medicine, genetics, business, and economic development, the summit will give a boost to global efforts aimed at finding cures for debilitating and deadly diseases, as well as bringing the important economic benefits of bioscience. By choosing Detroit as the site of this year's summit, the organizers have made a powerful statement about Michigan's commitment to this vital area of scientific exploration. In 2008, Michigan voters approved a referendum protecting the ability of Michigan researchers to engage in research involving stem cells. This wise decision has already paid significant dividends. Researchers at the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, Wayne State University, and other Michigan institutions have made significant progress even in that short time. UM has established a consortium to aid the search for treatments and cures, and a UM researcher, Dr. Eva Feldman, last year obtained FDA approval for the first ever clinical trials on a stem cell therapy for ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease.





