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VCU study: Bad environment augments genetic risk for drug abuse

Public release date: 5-Mar-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]

Contact: Sathya Achia Abraham sbachia@vcu.edu 804-827-0890 Virginia Commonwealth University

RICHMOND, Va. (March 5, 2012) The risk of abusing drugs is greater even for adopted children if the family environment in which they are raised is dysfunctional, according to a new study conducted by a collaborative team from Virginia Commonwealth University and Lund University in Sweden.

Previous research suggests that drug abuse is strongly influenced by a mix of genetic factors and the environment, including influences of family and peers. That research is primarily based on twin studies and typically involves families that are intact. Relatives that share genes and environment make it difficult to determine if the family dysfunction is linked to the drug abuse or if it is genetics at play. There have been no large-scale adoption studies performed to verify the findings, until now.

In the study, published online March 5 in the journal Archives of General Psychiatry, researchers examined how genetic and environmental factors contribute to the risk for drug abuse in adoptees. Using a large and representative adoption sample from Sweden, they demonstrate that genetic factors played a moderate role in the liability to drug abuse.

"For an adoptee, having a biological parent with drug abuse who did not raise you doubles your risk for drug abuse," said first author Kenneth Kendler, M.D., director of the VCU Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics.

"But we also found an important role for environmental factors. If you have an adoptive sibling - with whom you have no genetic relationship - develop drug abuse, that also doubles your risk for drug abuse,"

More importantly, according to Kendler, the team showed that the impact of your genes on risk for drug abuse is much stronger if you are raised in a high-risk rather than a low-risk environment.

"A bad environment can augment the effect of genetic risk on drug abuse," he said.

Kendler, professor of psychiatry, and human and molecular genetics in the VCU School of Medicine, and a team of researchers from Lund University led by Jan Sundquist, M.D., Ph.D., professor and director of the Center for Primary Health Care Research, and Kristina Sundquist, M.D., Ph.D., professor of family medicine at the Center for Primary Health Care Research, analyzed nine public registry data sets compiled between 1961 and 2009 of adoptees and their biological and adoptive relatives from Sweden.

See original here:
VCU study: Bad environment augments genetic risk for drug abuse

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

Radiation therapy program campaigns for marrow donors

Texas State radiation therapy students traveled to the University of Texas Pan America last weekend to collect enough bone marrow registrations to save the lives of 1,613 cancer patients.

The Kathy Soliz Texas State Radiation Therapy Outreach Program set up tables in prime locations around the campus on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. They asked passing students if they had five minutes to save a life. On the first day, the program exceeded 600 registrations, their target number for the whole trip.

Testing for a bone marrow match includes filling out a form and swabbing the inside of the cheek with a Q-tip. Donors can be called at anytime during their lives to save a life.

The program is named after Kathy Soliz, who fought leukemia for 10 years before losing her battle with cancer approximately one year ago. As a Hispanic, she only had about a one in 600,000 chance to find a bone marrow match. Soliz had two matches, but both donors declined the request for bone marrow.

Ronnie Lozano, chair of the radiation therapy program, was inspired by Solizs story and decided to help raise awareness for donating bone marrow. Texas State officials chose to partner with UTPA because the university is 89 percent Hispanic. Minorities have a lower chance of finding a match than Caucasians. A college campus also holds thousands of people who are unrelated and have younger stem cells.

Graciela Sandoval, doctoral student, said they had a good problem because they ran out of t-shirts and forms the first day from so many students registering. The student recreation center gave Texas State radiation therapy students extra t-shirts to give out.

The fact that theyre collecting them and people are registering thats hope for somebody, said Ricardo Soliz, assistant principal at San Marcos High School and father of the late Kathy Soliz.

Program officials are planning to travel to different minority schools each year for a bone marrow drive. Next spring the program plans to travel to a primarily African-American population campus.

The idea is to make a difference in the statistic numbers for all minorities, Lozano said.

The radiation therapy program has had bone marrow drives on the Texas State campus for the past four years, and there will be another in March.

Continued here:
Radiation therapy program campaigns for marrow donors

Recommendation and review posted by sam

Adult Stem Cells Can Help Cancer..Investigate Stem Cell Options – Video

27-02-2012 13:06 Free E-book /Adult Stem Cell Nutrition http://www.EJMorris.org adult stem cells help arrest Cancer as stated by Dick Van Dyke .. Adult stem cells ( ADC ) Repair damaged heart or brain following heart attack or stroke. Treatment for cardiac damage, brain damage, degenerative brain disease including potential new treatment for Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, encephalopathy, micro emboli, brain trauma. Experimental treatments to regenerate healthy brain tissue using adult stem cells -- rather than embryonic stem cells. Adult stem cells from bone marrow appear to cross the blood brain barrier to form new brain tissue. Adult stem cells from bone marrow also contribute to heart repair, stimulating new cardiac cell development, improving cardiac output. Nerve tissue, neurons, nerve fibers regrow using adult stem cells. Use of adult neural stem cells from the olfactory bulb to treat brain disease, brain injury or spinal cord injury, paralysis. Animal and human experiments to repair brain and spinal cord start to show early promise. Adult stem cells will help in the future management of heart attacks .. the Reversal of neurological damage, neurosurgery, neurology and brain studies. ADC aid in Anti ageing therapies, science and research. More Adult stem cells are needed in blood circulation as we age ... 65% of health care spending on people over 65 years old. Aging process -- physiology of aging and remedies, anti aging therapies. How to stay young. How we share ...

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Adult Stem Cells Can Help Cancer..Investigate Stem Cell Options - Video

Recommendation and review posted by sam

Abbott Molecular President Stafford O'Kelly to Deliver Opening Keynote at MDx NEXT in Boston

PETERBOROUGH, NH--(Marketwire -03/05/12)- G2 Intelligence announced today that Stafford O'Kelly, President of Abbott Molecular and Chair of the Personalized Medicine Coalition, will deliver the opening keynote address, "Putting Molecular Diagnostics to Work: What's Now and What's Next," at MDx NEXT, G2 Intelligence's seventh annual molecular diagnostics conference.

"With his depth and breadth of experience in this rapidly growing area of testing, Stafford O'Kelly is an exciting addition to our agenda," said Stephanie Murg, Managing Director of G2 Intelligence and MDx NEXT Program Chair. "Labs who want to add molecular diagnostics or optimize their current offerings will benefit enormously from Mr. O'Kelly's insights."

Mr. O'Kelly joins fellow keynote speakers Lone Frank, Ph.D., and Kenneth H. Buetow, Ph.D., who will speak on:

With a continued focus on the vibrant exchange of ideas and best practices that characterize all G2 conferences, this year's event also features a stronger emphasis on molecular diagnostic testing as a vital engine of growth for clinical laboratories of all types and sizes.

With this in mind, the new agenda showcases an exploration of key insights and opportunities around such topics as:

Distinguished faculty in attendance to include:

To find out more, or to register for MDx NEXT, go to http://www.MDxConference.com or call 1.800.401.5937. Group discounts are available for three or more people from the same organization. For group registrations, please call Jeff Watkins at 973.718.4709 to facilitate your registration, or email jwatkins@G2Intelligence.com.

Sponsors of this year's event include McKesson, Cleveland Clinic, XIFIN, Kellison & Company, and Quadax. Additional exhibitors at MDx NEXT will include Bioview, hc1.com, Streck, NeoGenomics, and Halfpenny Technologies. For information on sponsorship/exhibitor opportunities, please contact Patrice Hampson at 603-371-2126 or via email at phampson@G2Intelligence.com.

About G2 Intelligence

Advancing the Business of Diagnostic Medicine

Follow this link:
Abbott Molecular President Stafford O'Kelly to Deliver Opening Keynote at MDx NEXT in Boston

Recommendation and review posted by sam

The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis Supports Red Light Safety Cameras

TAMPA, FL--March 5, 2012: Joining the chorus of red light safety camera supporters, The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, the highly-respected brain and spinal cord injury research center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, recently announced their support of the National Coalition for Safer Roads. This announcement solidifies The Project's commitment and support of red light safety cameras as well as other programs and technologies that help increase road safety.

On the heels of the strong public support we are enjoying, I am confident that we are making meaningful progress in Florida.

"Our team sees the tragedy left from preventable accidents all the time, and I firmly believe that red light cameras save lives," said Marc Buoniconti, president of The Miami Project. "And, when an aggressive driver gets ticketed for running a red light and breaking the law, it is only fitting and appropriate that some of those funds go to researching the life altering injuries that they may cause."

Under the Mark Wandall Traffic Safety Act, Florida's red light safety camera program, a portion of the money generated from red light violations goes to research and emergency room trauma centers throughout the state.

Of the $158 fine paid by red light violators, $10 is distributed to local trauma centers through the Health Administrative Trust Fund, and $3 is allocated to support research through The Miami Project. Since July 2010, Florida's trauma centers have received more than $5.5 million and The Miami Project has received more than $1.7 million.

"It is a `red' letter day when an advocate of the stature of The Miami Project joins our effort," said David Kelly, president and executive director of the National Coalition of Safer Roads. "On the heels of the strong public support we are enjoying, I am confident that we are making meaningful progress in Florida."

About The Miami Project

The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis is the world's most comprehensive spinal cord injury research center, and a designated Center of Excellence at the University of Miami's Miller School of Medicine. The Miami Project's international team is housed in the Lois Pope LIFE Center and includes more than 250 scientists, researchers and clinicians who take innovative approaches to the challenges of traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries.

About the National Coalition for Safer Roads

NCSR was organized as an industry trade association with the express purpose of advocating on behalf of the traffic safety technology industry. NCSR is proud to advocate for the use of red light safety cameras in more than 600 communities across the country to change reckless driver behavior, stop red-light running and save lives. NCSR is supported by American Traffic Solutions, with coalition partners including the National Safety Council; Safe Kids USA; Child Safety Network; National Organizations for Youth Safety; America Walks; and Red Means Stop, as well as numerous police departments, medical professionals, safety advocates, industry leaders, community leaders and concerned citizens. View NCSR Partners. For more information, visit Safe Roads Save Lives.

Originally posted here:
The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis Supports Red Light Safety Cameras

Recommendation and review posted by sam

Organovo, Inc. Investor Presentation Now Available for On-Demand Viewing at RetailInvestorConferences.com

NEW YORK, March 5, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --Organovo, Inc., (OTCQB: ONVO.PK - News) the San Diego-based regenerative medicine company focused on using its breakthrough NovoGen 3D human tissue printing technology to create tissue on demand for research and medical applications, today announced that their March 1st RetailInvestorConferences.com presentation is now available for on-demand viewing.

LINK: http://www.retailinvestorconferences.com > red "register/ watch event now" button

Organovo, Inc.'s presentation will be available 24/7 for 90 days. Investors may download shareholder materials from the "virtual trade booth" for the next three weeks.

About Organovo, Inc.:

Organovo (OTCQB: ONVO.PK - News) is a three-dimensional biology company focused on delivering breakthrough bioprinting technology and creating tissue on demand for research and medical applications. The company's NovoGen three-dimensional bioprinting technology is a platform that works across all tissue and cell types. Organovo's NovoGen MMX Bioprinter was selected as one of the "Best Inventions of 2010" by TIME Magazine. Organovo is helping pharmaceutical partners develop human biological disease models in three dimensions that enable therapeutic drug discovery and development. Organovo's bioprinting technology can also be developed to create surgical tissues direct therapy. Organovo leads the way in solving complex medical research problems and building the future of medicine. For more information, please visit http://www.organovo.com.

About RetailInvestorConferences.com:

Since 2010, RetailInvestorConferences.com, created by BetterInvesting (NAIC), PR NewswireandMUNCmedia, has been the only monthly virtual investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for presenting companies to meet directly with retail investors using a graphically-enhanced online platform.

Designed to replicate the look and feel of location-based investor conferences, Retail Investor Conferences unites PR Newswire's leading-edge online conferencing and investor communications capabilities with BetterInvesting's extensive retail investor audience network and MUNCmedia's sophisticated retail investor targeting.

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Organovo, Inc. Investor Presentation Now Available for On-Demand Viewing at RetailInvestorConferences.com

Recommendation and review posted by sam

Histogen Signs License Agreement with Suneva Medical for Cell Conditioned Media-based Aesthetic Products

SAN DIEGO, March 5, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --Histogen Inc., a regenerative medicine company, and Suneva Medical, a privately-held aesthetics company, today announced that they have entered into a license agreement for physician-dispensed aesthetic products containing Histogen's proprietary multipotent cell conditioned media (CCM).

Under the terms of this license agreement, Suneva Medical has acquired exclusive U.S. licensing rights to Histogen's multipotent CCM and the ReGenica branded line of products for topical applications in the licensed market. Suneva Medical will manufacture the ReGenica product line and market it to aesthetic practitioners throughout the U.S. Histogen will receive a transfer price on the CCM, as well as royalties on future sales of ReGenica and product line extensions.

"First, let me say that, as the first step in expanding our business, we are very excited about this particular opportunity as the advent of regenerative medicine is upon us. One of our key business objectives is to find novel products that complement our rapidly growing dermal filler business. We believe Histogen's innovative technology coupled with our proven experience of developing and marketing aesthetic products is a winning combination as it enables us to offer our customers a differentiated product line," stated Nicholas Teti, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Suneva Medical.

Through Histogen's technology process, which mimics the embryonic environment including conditions of low oxygen and suspension, cells are triggered to become multipotent, and naturally produce proteins associated with skin renewal and scarless healing. The result is a soluble cell conditioned media containing cell-signaling proteins such as KGF, follistatin, stem cell factor, collagens and laminins, which support the epidermal stem cells that renew skin throughout life. In addition, factors associated with scarring, such as TGF-beta, are decreased or nonexistent.

"The applications for this proprietary multipotent CCM within the field of medical aesthetics are numerous and, based upon the way the proteins within the complex signal the body's own stem cells to rejuvenate and regenerate skin, potentially groundbreaking," said Dr. Gail K. Naughton, CEO and Chairman of the Board at Histogen. "This recognition from Suneva's expert team, with a rich background in developing and marketing aesthetics, validates Histogen's technology and supports the fact that it is different from anything currently in the market."

About Histogen Histogen, launched in 2007, seeks to redefine regenerative medicine by developing a series of high value products that do not contain embryonic stem cells or animal components. Through Histogen's proprietary bioreactors that mimic the embryonic environment, including low oxygen and suspension, newborn cells are encouraged to naturally produce the vital proteins and growth factors from which the Company has developed its rich product portfolio. Histogen has two product families a proprietary cell conditioned media, and a human Extracellular Matrix (ECM) material. For more information, please visit http://www.histogen.com.

About Suneva Medical Suneva Medical, Inc. is a privately-held aesthetics company focused on developing, manufacturing and commercializing novel, differentiated products for the dermatology, plastic and cosmetic surgery markets. The Company's long-lasting injectable product is marketed as Artefill in the U.S. and Bellafill in Canada to correct facial wrinkles. For more information visit http://www.sunevamedical.com.

Contacts:

For Histogen Inc.:

Eileen Brandt Phone: (858) 200-9520 ebrandt@histogeninc.com

More:
Histogen Signs License Agreement with Suneva Medical for Cell Conditioned Media-based Aesthetic Products

Recommendation and review posted by sam

The Alliance for Regenerative Medicine Statement on Use of Cell Therapies Not Approved by the Federal Drug …

WASHINGTON, DC--(Marketwire -03/05/12)- The Alliance for Regenerative Medicine issued the following statement today: "An article about stem cell treatments taking place in Texas published by Nature last week is extremely troubling. The article suggests that patients are being administered stem cell treatments that have not been systematically demonstrated to be safe and effective therapies through the established FDA regulatory process.

"Cell therapy treatments, including those using adult stem cells, hold the promise of providing patients with treatments and cures for numerous diseases and disabilities. However, FDA regulation is key to ensuring that the treatments available to patients are safe and effective.

"The Alliance for Regenerative Medicine (ARM), a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote increased funding and development of regenerative medicine products, believes cell therapy and regenerative medicine products, including autologous cell therapy products, must go through the rigorous safety testing that is part of the FDA regulatory process before they can be marketed to the public. These regulations are designed to promote safe collection, manufacture, storage, and use of human cells, and cellular and tissue based products. ARM members comply with these rules because they know that FDA oversight helps to prevent patients from exposure to potentially unsafe products.

"We urge all companies developing stem cell treatments to follow FDA rules governing research and product development. ARM remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that safe and effective products reach patients as soon as possible."

About The Alliance for Regenerative Medicine (ARM) The Alliance for Regenerative Medicine (ARM) is a Washington, DC-based non-profit organization that promotes legislative, regulatory, reimbursement, and financing initiatives necessary to facilitate access to life-giving advances in regenerative medicine. ARM also works to increase public understanding of the field and its potential to transform human healthcare, and provides services to support the growth of its member companies and organizations. To learn more about ARM or to become a member, visit http://www.alliancerm.org.

Read more:
The Alliance for Regenerative Medicine Statement on Use of Cell Therapies Not Approved by the Federal Drug ...

Recommendation and review posted by sam

New Stem Cell Research Shows Promising Results — Advanced Cell Tech and NeoStem Poised to Benefit

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -03/05/12)- February was a challenging month for stem cell stocks. TickerSpy's Stem Cell Stocks Index (RXSTM) has slipped nearly 13 percent over the last month -- underperforming the S&P 500 by close to 17 percent over that time frame. Despite the drop in investor optimism, new research continues to propel the industry forward. Five Star Equities examines the outlook for companies in the Biotechnology industry and provides equity research on Advanced Cell Technology, Inc. (OTC.BB: ACTC.OB - News) and NeoStem, Inc. (AMEX: NBS - News). Access to the full company reports can be found at:

http://www.fivestarequities.com/ACTC

http://www.fivestarequities.com/NBS

A new study at Johns Hopkins University has shown that stem cells from patients' own cardiac tissue can be used to heal scarred tissue after a heart attack. "This has never been accomplished before, despite a decade of cell therapy trials for patients with heart attacks. Now we have done it," Eduardo Marban, director of the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute and one of the study's co-authors, said in a statement. "The effects are substantial."

In another study, researchers led by Jonathan Tilly, director of the Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology at Massachusetts General Hospital, argue they've discovered the ovaries of young women harbor very rare stem cells capable of producing new eggs.

Five Star Equities releases regular market updates on the biotechnology industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.fivestarequities.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Advanced Cell Technology, Inc., a biotechnology company, focuses on the development and commercialization of human embryonic and adult stem cell technology in the field of regenerative medicine. The Company recently issued a press release stating that it utilized $13.6 million in cash for operations during 2011, compared to $8.8 million in the year-earlier period. The increase in cash utilization resulted primarily from ACT's ongoing clinical activities in the US and Europe.

NeoStem, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, engages in the development and manufacture of cellular therapies for oncology, immunology, and regenerative medicines in the United States and China. In January, Amorcyte, LLC, a NeoStem, Inc. company, announced the enrollment of the first patient in the Amorcyte PreSERVE Phase 2 trial for acute myocardial infarction.

Five Star Equities provides Market Research focused on equities that offer growth opportunities, value, and strong potential return. We strive to provide the most up-to-date market activities. We constantly create research reports and newsletters for our members. Five Star Equities has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned companies. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.fivestarequities.com/disclaimer

Continued here:
New Stem Cell Research Shows Promising Results -- Advanced Cell Tech and NeoStem Poised to Benefit

Recommendation and review posted by simmons

Histogen Signs License Agreement with Suneva Medical for Cell Conditioned Media-based Aesthetic Products

SAN DIEGO, March 5, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --Histogen Inc., a regenerative medicine company, and Suneva Medical, a privately-held aesthetics company, today announced that they have entered into a license agreement for physician-dispensed aesthetic products containing Histogen's proprietary multipotent cell conditioned media (CCM).

Under the terms of this license agreement, Suneva Medical has acquired exclusive U.S. licensing rights to Histogen's multipotent CCM and the ReGenica branded line of products for topical applications in the licensed market. Suneva Medical will manufacture the ReGenica product line and market it to aesthetic practitioners throughout the U.S. Histogen will receive a transfer price on the CCM, as well as royalties on future sales of ReGenica and product line extensions.

"First, let me say that, as the first step in expanding our business, we are very excited about this particular opportunity as the advent of regenerative medicine is upon us. One of our key business objectives is to find novel products that complement our rapidly growing dermal filler business. We believe Histogen's innovative technology coupled with our proven experience of developing and marketing aesthetic products is a winning combination as it enables us to offer our customers a differentiated product line," stated Nicholas Teti, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Suneva Medical.

Through Histogen's technology process, which mimics the embryonic environment including conditions of low oxygen and suspension, cells are triggered to become multipotent, and naturally produce proteins associated with skin renewal and scarless healing. The result is a soluble cell conditioned media containing cell-signaling proteins such as KGF, follistatin, stem cell factor, collagens and laminins, which support the epidermal stem cells that renew skin throughout life. In addition, factors associated with scarring, such as TGF-beta, are decreased or nonexistent.

"The applications for this proprietary multipotent CCM within the field of medical aesthetics are numerous and, based upon the way the proteins within the complex signal the body's own stem cells to rejuvenate and regenerate skin, potentially groundbreaking," said Dr. Gail K. Naughton, CEO and Chairman of the Board at Histogen. "This recognition from Suneva's expert team, with a rich background in developing and marketing aesthetics, validates Histogen's technology and supports the fact that it is different from anything currently in the market."

About Histogen Histogen, launched in 2007, seeks to redefine regenerative medicine by developing a series of high value products that do not contain embryonic stem cells or animal components. Through Histogen's proprietary bioreactors that mimic the embryonic environment, including low oxygen and suspension, newborn cells are encouraged to naturally produce the vital proteins and growth factors from which the Company has developed its rich product portfolio. Histogen has two product families a proprietary cell conditioned media, and a human Extracellular Matrix (ECM) material. For more information, please visit http://www.histogen.com.

About Suneva Medical Suneva Medical, Inc. is a privately-held aesthetics company focused on developing, manufacturing and commercializing novel, differentiated products for the dermatology, plastic and cosmetic surgery markets. The Company's long-lasting injectable product is marketed as Artefill in the U.S. and Bellafill in Canada to correct facial wrinkles. For more information visit http://www.sunevamedical.com.

Contacts:

For Histogen Inc.:

Eileen Brandt Phone: (858) 200-9520 ebrandt@histogeninc.com

Read more from the original source:
Histogen Signs License Agreement with Suneva Medical for Cell Conditioned Media-based Aesthetic Products

Recommendation and review posted by simmons

BioTime and Aastrom Biosciences — Stem Cell Research Making Breakthroughs

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -03/05/12)- February was a challenging month for stem cell stocks. TickerSpy's Stem Cell Stocks Index (RXSTM) has slipped nearly 13 percent over the last month -- underperforming the S&P 500 by close to 17 percent over that time frame. Despite the drop in investor optimism, new and promising research continues to propel the industry forward. Five Star Equities examines the outlook for companies in the Biotechnology industry and provides equity research on BioTime, Inc. (AMEX: BTX - News) and Aastrom Biosciences, Inc. (NASDAQ: ASTM - News). Access to the full company reports can be found at:

http://www.fivestarequities.com/BTX

http://www.fivestarequities.com/ASTM

A new study at Johns Hopkins University has shown that stem cells from patients' own cardiac tissue can be used to heal scarred tissue after a heart attack. "This has never been accomplished before, despite a decade of cell therapy trials for patients with heart attacks. Now we have done it," Eduardo Marban, director of the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute and one of the study's co-authors, said in a statement. "The effects are substantial."

In another study, researchers led by Jonathan Tilly, director of the Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology at Massachusetts General Hospital, argue they've discovered the ovaries of young women harbor very rare stem cells capable of producing new eggs.

Five Star Equities releases regular market updates on the biotechnology industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.fivestarequities.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Aastrom Biosciences, Inc., a regenerative medicine company, engages in developing autologous cell therapies for the treatment of severe and chronic cardiovascular diseases.

BioTime, Inc. primarily focuses on regenerative medicine, which refers to therapies based on human embryonic stem (hES) cell and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell technology designed to rebuild cell and tissue function lost due to degenerative disease or injury. The company recently elected to market progenitors of muscle stem cells bearing hereditary diseases. BioTime will produce the products from five human embryonic stem (hES) cell lines from Reproductive Genetics Institute (RGI) of Chicago, Illinois.

Five Star Equities provides Market Research focused on equities that offer growth opportunities, value, and strong potential return. We strive to provide the most up-to-date market activities. We constantly create research reports and newsletters for our members. Five Star Equities has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned companies. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.fivestarequities.com/disclaimer

Link:
BioTime and Aastrom Biosciences -- Stem Cell Research Making Breakthroughs

Recommendation and review posted by simmons

The Alliance for Regenerative Medicine Statement on Use of Cell Therapies Not Approved by the Federal Drug …

WASHINGTON, DC--(Marketwire -03/05/12)- The Alliance for Regenerative Medicine issued the following statement today: "An article about stem cell treatments taking place in Texas published by Nature last week is extremely troubling. The article suggests that patients are being administered stem cell treatments that have not been systematically demonstrated to be safe and effective therapies through the established FDA regulatory process.

"Cell therapy treatments, including those using adult stem cells, hold the promise of providing patients with treatments and cures for numerous diseases and disabilities. However, FDA regulation is key to ensuring that the treatments available to patients are safe and effective.

"The Alliance for Regenerative Medicine (ARM), a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote increased funding and development of regenerative medicine products, believes cell therapy and regenerative medicine products, including autologous cell therapy products, must go through the rigorous safety testing that is part of the FDA regulatory process before they can be marketed to the public. These regulations are designed to promote safe collection, manufacture, storage, and use of human cells, and cellular and tissue based products. ARM members comply with these rules because they know that FDA oversight helps to prevent patients from exposure to potentially unsafe products.

"We urge all companies developing stem cell treatments to follow FDA rules governing research and product development. ARM remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that safe and effective products reach patients as soon as possible."

About The Alliance for Regenerative Medicine (ARM) The Alliance for Regenerative Medicine (ARM) is a Washington, DC-based non-profit organization that promotes legislative, regulatory, reimbursement, and financing initiatives necessary to facilitate access to life-giving advances in regenerative medicine. ARM also works to increase public understanding of the field and its potential to transform human healthcare, and provides services to support the growth of its member companies and organizations. To learn more about ARM or to become a member, visit http://www.alliancerm.org.

Read more:
The Alliance for Regenerative Medicine Statement on Use of Cell Therapies Not Approved by the Federal Drug ...

Recommendation and review posted by simmons

New Stem Cell Research Shows Promising Results — Advanced Cell Tech and NeoStem Poised to Benefit

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -03/05/12)- February was a challenging month for stem cell stocks. TickerSpy's Stem Cell Stocks Index (RXSTM) has slipped nearly 13 percent over the last month -- underperforming the S&P 500 by close to 17 percent over that time frame. Despite the drop in investor optimism, new research continues to propel the industry forward. Five Star Equities examines the outlook for companies in the Biotechnology industry and provides equity research on Advanced Cell Technology, Inc. (OTC.BB: ACTC.OB - News) and NeoStem, Inc. (AMEX: NBS - News). Access to the full company reports can be found at:

http://www.fivestarequities.com/ACTC

http://www.fivestarequities.com/NBS

A new study at Johns Hopkins University has shown that stem cells from patients' own cardiac tissue can be used to heal scarred tissue after a heart attack. "This has never been accomplished before, despite a decade of cell therapy trials for patients with heart attacks. Now we have done it," Eduardo Marban, director of the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute and one of the study's co-authors, said in a statement. "The effects are substantial."

In another study, researchers led by Jonathan Tilly, director of the Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology at Massachusetts General Hospital, argue they've discovered the ovaries of young women harbor very rare stem cells capable of producing new eggs.

Five Star Equities releases regular market updates on the biotechnology industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.fivestarequities.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Advanced Cell Technology, Inc., a biotechnology company, focuses on the development and commercialization of human embryonic and adult stem cell technology in the field of regenerative medicine. The Company recently issued a press release stating that it utilized $13.6 million in cash for operations during 2011, compared to $8.8 million in the year-earlier period. The increase in cash utilization resulted primarily from ACT's ongoing clinical activities in the US and Europe.

NeoStem, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, engages in the development and manufacture of cellular therapies for oncology, immunology, and regenerative medicines in the United States and China. In January, Amorcyte, LLC, a NeoStem, Inc. company, announced the enrollment of the first patient in the Amorcyte PreSERVE Phase 2 trial for acute myocardial infarction.

Five Star Equities provides Market Research focused on equities that offer growth opportunities, value, and strong potential return. We strive to provide the most up-to-date market activities. We constantly create research reports and newsletters for our members. Five Star Equities has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned companies. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.fivestarequities.com/disclaimer

Original post:
New Stem Cell Research Shows Promising Results -- Advanced Cell Tech and NeoStem Poised to Benefit

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

BioTime and Aastrom Biosciences — Stem Cell Research Making Breakthroughs

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -03/05/12)- February was a challenging month for stem cell stocks. TickerSpy's Stem Cell Stocks Index (RXSTM) has slipped nearly 13 percent over the last month -- underperforming the S&P 500 by close to 17 percent over that time frame. Despite the drop in investor optimism, new and promising research continues to propel the industry forward. Five Star Equities examines the outlook for companies in the Biotechnology industry and provides equity research on BioTime, Inc. (AMEX: BTX - News) and Aastrom Biosciences, Inc. (NASDAQ: ASTM - News). Access to the full company reports can be found at:

http://www.fivestarequities.com/BTX

http://www.fivestarequities.com/ASTM

A new study at Johns Hopkins University has shown that stem cells from patients' own cardiac tissue can be used to heal scarred tissue after a heart attack. "This has never been accomplished before, despite a decade of cell therapy trials for patients with heart attacks. Now we have done it," Eduardo Marban, director of the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute and one of the study's co-authors, said in a statement. "The effects are substantial."

In another study, researchers led by Jonathan Tilly, director of the Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology at Massachusetts General Hospital, argue they've discovered the ovaries of young women harbor very rare stem cells capable of producing new eggs.

Five Star Equities releases regular market updates on the biotechnology industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.fivestarequities.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Aastrom Biosciences, Inc., a regenerative medicine company, engages in developing autologous cell therapies for the treatment of severe and chronic cardiovascular diseases.

BioTime, Inc. primarily focuses on regenerative medicine, which refers to therapies based on human embryonic stem (hES) cell and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell technology designed to rebuild cell and tissue function lost due to degenerative disease or injury. The company recently elected to market progenitors of muscle stem cells bearing hereditary diseases. BioTime will produce the products from five human embryonic stem (hES) cell lines from Reproductive Genetics Institute (RGI) of Chicago, Illinois.

Five Star Equities provides Market Research focused on equities that offer growth opportunities, value, and strong potential return. We strive to provide the most up-to-date market activities. We constantly create research reports and newsletters for our members. Five Star Equities has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned companies. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.fivestarequities.com/disclaimer

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BioTime and Aastrom Biosciences -- Stem Cell Research Making Breakthroughs

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

Gartner to Present at the 14th Annual Credit Suisse Global Services Conference

STAMFORD, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Gartner, Inc. (NYSE: IT - News), the leading provider of research and analysis on the global information technology industry, today announced that Gene Hall, the Company's Chief Executive Officer, Chris Lafond, the Companys Chief Financial Officer, and Brian Shipman, the Companys Group Vice President of Investor Relations will participate in the 14th Annual Credit Suisse Global Services Conference. The Company's presentation is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. eastern time on Tuesday, March 13, 2012. A link to the live webcast of the presentation will be available via the Company's website at http://investor.gartner.com. A replay of the webcast will be available for approximately 30 days following the call.

About Gartner:

Gartner, Inc. (NYSE: IT - News) is the world's leading information technology research and advisory company. Gartner delivers the technology-related insight necessary for its clients to make the right decisions, every day. From CIOs and senior IT leaders in corporations and government agencies, to business leaders in high-tech and telecom enterprises and professional services firms, to technology investors, Gartner is the valuable partner to 60,000 clients in 11,000 distinct organizations. Through the resources of Gartner Research, Gartner Executive Programs, Gartner Consulting and Gartner Events, Gartner works with every client to research, analyze and interpret the business of IT within the context of their individual role. Founded in 1979, Gartner is headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, U.S.A., and has 4,400 associates, including 1,200 research analysts and consultants, and clients in 85 countries. For more information, visit http://www.gartner.com.

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Gartner to Present at the 14th Annual Credit Suisse Global Services Conference

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

Museum of Engineered Organisms Opens In Pittsburgh

Join Log In Submit Story Jobs Newsletter Library 29990019 story Posted by samzenpus on Sunday March 04, @01:15PM from the it's-alive-alive dept. qeorqe writes "The Center for PostNatural History is a museum and research library about organisms that have been created either by genetic engineering or selective breeding. Included in the collection are Sea Monkeys and GloFish. From the article: 'One of the cool things about natural history museums is that they show you how nature has changed over time, adapting to volatile conditions and extreme challenges. And nothing is more volatile, extreme, or challenging than the human race, so it makes sense that there would be a museum to chronicle just how much weve messed with plants, animals, the climate, and in general the world around us. The Center for PostNatural History, opening this week in Pittsburgh, is that museum.'" Related Links Post

Soap and education are not as sudden as a massacre, but they are more deadly in the long run. -- Mark Twain

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Museum of Engineered Organisms Opens In Pittsburgh

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

31 Teams Grapple In STEM Competition

Dozens of high school and middle school girls spent Saturday, Feb. 18 engineering brick walls, mixing chemical solutions, solving genetic and forensic quandaries, and conquering tricky logic problems at Foxcroft Schools K2M Expedition: The STEM Summit. Foxcroft School in Middleburg and Norwood School in Bethesda, MD, captured the competitions high school and middle school titles, respectively.

It was an outstanding day for all involved, Foxcroft Head of School Mary Louise Leipheimer stated. What these girls can do with math, science and technology is amazing. I dont know when Ive been so proud of our school.

The STEM Summit attracted a number of talented students from Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC, with girls from 19 high schools and 12 middle schools competing. Working in teams of 3 or 4, students solved problems that draw on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) skills. Challenges included engineering a brick wall with the longest possible overhang, mixing chemical solutions to identify each element, solving a genetics problem called Whos Your Daddy? and conquering tricky logic problems. The middle school competition also included a forensics exercise that involved analyzing fingerprints and fiber samples.

The event was sponsored by K2M, Inc., a Leesburg firm that develops technological innovations for surgeons to treat complex spinal disorders. Two of the companys young engineers conducted one of the STEM Summit events, and CEO Eric Major came to watch.

We were so impressed with the energy, enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity of the Foxcroft girls who visited our lab last spring, stated Major, referring to a field trip by the Schools Engineering and AP Biology classes to learn about K2Ms engineering. So we thought partnering with Foxcroft to sponsor this event made a lot of sense.

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31 Teams Grapple In STEM Competition

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

Global Genetic Engineering Industry

NEW YORK, March 5, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Reportlinker.com announces that a new market research report is available in its catalogue:

Global Genetic Engineering Industry

http://www.reportlinker.com/p0152432/Global-Genetic-Engineering-Industry.html#utm_source=prnewswire&utm_medium=pr&utm_campaign=Genetical

The global outlook series on Genetic Engineering provides a collection of market briefs and concise summaries of research findings. The report offers an aerial view of the industry, highlights latest developments, and discusses demand drivers, issues and concerns, and regulatory environment. Discussion on the industry's most noteworthy regional market, the US, is amply detailed with unbiased research commentary to provide the reader a rudimentary understanding of the prevailing market climate. Market discussions in the report are punctuated with fact-rich market data tables. Regional markets elaborated upon include United States, Canada, India, China, and South Africa among others. Also included is an indexed, easy-to-refer, fact-finder directory listing the addresses, and contact details of 153 companies active in the market.

1. INDUSTRY OVERVIEW 1Genetic Engineering: A Prelude 1Genetic Engineering: Not the Same As Biotechnology 1The Evolution and Progress of GM Crops 2M Crops Gain Global Acceptance 2GM Cultivation Gains Prominence in Developing Nations 2Rising Prices, Food Shortage Make Biotech Grains Attractive 2Socio-Economic Impacts of Biotech Crops 3Impact of GM Crops on Biodiversity 3Challenges to GM Crops Adoption 3Biotech Regulatory Measures Hinder Crop Domestication 4Genetic Modification of Forest Trees and Associated Issues 4Biosafety: a Key Criterion Associated 4Governments Not to Give Up on GM Hope 4US - The Largest Producer of GM Crops 5Leading Countries by Biotech Crop Area (2009) 5Table 1: Current and Future Analysis of the Global BiotechCrops Market By Geographic Region for the US, Canada,Asia-Pacific, Latin America and Rest of World IndependentlyAnalyzed with Annual Sales Figures in US$ Million for 2010through 2015 6Major Market Participants 7

2. MARKET DYNAMICS 8

Global Food Demand to Drive Need for GM Crops 8

Developing Countries: Major Share Holders for Biotech Crop

Production 8

Status of Biotech Rice in the World 8

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Global Genetic Engineering Industry

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

The Genetics of Glee or, what makes us sing in groups?

Ok, this isnt really about the genetics of Glee. What it is really about is the genetic similarities of a group of choral singers.

Why do people sing in groups? Why do some sing in choirs and others not? What makes some people more inclined to participate in group music? After all, singing in a choir is far more than singing by yourself. You have to be willing to work at the pace of the group, be willing to modulate your own music to the needs of the group, and of courseyou have to be able to sing.

Is it possible theres something genetic? Thats what this study set out to find out. And they took their results, and made MUSIC. Read on and see!

Morley et al. AVPR1A and SLC6A4 Polymorphisms in Choral Singers and Non-Musicians: A Gene Association Study PLoS ONE, 2012.

(Source)

So we know that participation in a choir, at least, a good choir that you have to audition for (and Scis been in a few of those), requires a certain amount of musical talent, including the ability to carry a tune, read music, sight read music (be able to sing it on sight without playing it out on a piano first), and modulate your own voice volume, pitch, and tone to blend in with a group or stand out as required. While many of these characteristics are associated with all musicians (violins may not use your voice, but they do need to match pitch and tone when necessary), there are other qualities here associated specifically with GROUP music. Working at the pace of the group, responding to the people around you and the conductor, choral music is a very group oriented activity.

So in this study, the authors wanted to take some of the genes that have been previously associated with musical ability, and see how many of them applied specifically to people who sing in groups. Two specific genes were involved. First is the AVPR1A gene, which codes for the vasopressin receptor. The vasopressin receptor is best known for its role in regulation of the water balance in your body, but it is also present in various areas of the brain, where it has roles in behavior (such as in the monogamous behavior of voles). Changes in the promoter region of this gene (which helps control how much of the gene is expressed) have been correlated with test scores for music ability.

The second is the SLC6A4 gene, which codes for the serotonin transporter. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter which has various functions in the body, but which is best known for its role in psychiatric disorders such as depression. Some polymorphisms in the serotonin transporter gene have been associated with scores in music tests, as well as participation in things like creative dance.

What is a polymorphism? This is a case where two or more genotypes for the same region of a gene exist. One person might be A/A, while another is G/G, and another is halfway in between at A/G. There can also be bigger changes in things like repeating sequences of a gene, where the number of repeats varies as a function of genotype. All of these changes can affect how the gene is expressed, in turn affecting various aspects of function and behavior.

The authors wanted to see whether polymorphisms in either of these genes might associate with choral participation. They recruited a bunch of singers (They specified white, why only white?! Probably due to trying to reduce the complexity of the statistics, but I really wish they could have included more ethnicities in the study) from relatively good volunteer choirs, ones you have to really audition for. They recruited the rest of their volunteers from various people at the hospital where the study was being done, specifying only that they have NO participation in music of any kind other than listening to it. They got around 250 in each group with roughly equal gender representation (though a very wide age range), and genotyped them all for different polymorphisms in the vasopressin 1A receptor gene and the serotonin transporter gene.

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The Genetics of Glee or, what makes us sing in groups?

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

Atossa Genetics' National Reference Laboratory for Breast Health Receives CLIA Certification

SEATTLE, WA--(Marketwire -03/05/12)- Atossa Genetics, Inc., a private healthcare company focused on the prevention of breast cancer through the commercialization of diagnostic tests that can detect precursors to breast cancer, and through the research, development, and ultimate commercialization of treatments for pre-cancerous lesions, today announced certification from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) of 1988 for its breast health reference laboratory, the National Reference Laboratory for Breast Health. This certification follows a comprehensive inspection of its facilities, processes, and personnel, including review of the validation and clinical reports from its Laboratory Developed Tests (LDT) and the ForeCYTE Breast Health Test and ArgusCYTE Breast Health Test.

"Atossa Genetics has been dedicated to exceptional standards of operational performance from day one, and that commitment to quality was evident in our clinical laboratory certification process," said Shu-Chih Chen, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer, Atossa Genetics, and Supervisor, The National Reference Laboratory for Breast Health. "The objective of the CLIA program is to ensure quality laboratory testing and this certification is a critical step that follows the December 2011 launch of our two LDTs, the ForeCYTE and ArgusCYTE Breast Health Tests."

Atossa Genetics and The National Reference Laboratory for Breast Health, its wholly owned subsidiary, achieved CLIA-registration and California and Washington State licensing during 2011, enabling the Company to begin processing clinical samples from most states.

Mandated by the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR 42 Part 493.2), the CMS manage and conduct inspections of CLIA laboratories. The regulation was enacted to ensure consistent, accurate, and reliable clinical test results reporting from laboratories across the country used for the diagnosis, treatment, and/or prognosis of disease in human subjects. CLIA applies to all clinical laboratories operating in the U.S. and its territories and encompasses more than 200,000 clinical testing sites.

About Atossa Genetics, Inc.

Atossa Genetics, Inc. is a privately held health care company based in Seattle, Washington, that provides a comprehensive set of innovative breast health evaluation products and services that provide accurate and actionable results for personalized cancer prevention and breast health. Atossa has established the National Reference Laboratory for Breast Health, a specially equipped, CLIA-certified laboratory located in Seattle that provides comprehensive test results to guide personalized breast cancer prevention and treatment solutions.

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Atossa Genetics' National Reference Laboratory for Breast Health Receives CLIA Certification

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

Seattle Genetics: A Cancer Niche Too Small

SEATTLE (TheStreet) --Let's examine the short thesis on Seattle Genetics(SGEN), which also perfectly illustrates an important point about short selling, generally. Last August, Seattle Genetics received FDA approval for Adcetris -- an anti-CD30 monoclonal antibody linked to the anti-cancer drug monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) -- for the treatment of relapsed or refractory Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) and systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (sALCL). Adcetris is a good treatment option for patients within the labeled indication and management deserves applause for getting the drug to market. Unfortunately, there's a problem: Adcetris sales estimates are too high. HL and sALCL are rare cancers with extremely effective initial therapeutic options, leaving few patients for the Seattle Genetics to treat. Usually, when a drug misses Wall Street estimates, the stock price of the company selling the drug falls. I believe Adcetris sales will fall short of Wall Street estimates, causing Seattle Genetics' stock price to tumble as well. Before I dig deeper into Seattle Genetics, I want to focus on that shadowy coalition with nefarious intentions which secretly controls global markets -- otherwise known as the shorts. [Insert sarcastic sneer here.] For the unfamiliar, short selling -- or "shorting" -- is a way to bet that a company (or nearly any other asset) is overvalued. An investor borrows and sells shares, promising to "return" those shares at a later date (the details are more complex, but that's the gist.) If the share price declines, the investor covers (buys and returns the borrowed shares) and pockets the difference for a profit. Missteps can be costly; a short has a maximum profit of 100% (an asset's value can only decline to zero), but unlimited downside. Unlike a long position, a short that moves in the wrong direction also becomes larger, thereby compounding the pain. As yet another perk, short sellers are often ostracized for daring to question management's vision. To be clear, those who illegally manipulate stock prices in either direction -- whether at a hedge fund, bank, mutual fund, or elsewhere -- should be caught and punished. Rather than focus on this tiny subgroup of criminals, doe-eyed optimists blame the shorts for nearly any unwanted outcome. Sadly, this practice isn't new. In the 17th century, the Netherlands banned short selling when an investor's bet against the Dutch East India Company went awry. Regulation would have been the better answer. Napoleon Bonaparte linked shorting with treason, banned the practice, and imprisoned offenders. A few years ago, prominent U.S. politicians lambasted short sellers for causing the financial crisis. (Global overleverage, mispriced assets, and governmental policies that encouraged bad decisions were legitimate targets apparently too nebulous.) This long-standing demonization of short selling ignores reality. Even quality assets like the cancer drug Adcetris can be undervalued, fairly valued, or overvalued at any given point in time. Admiring Seattle Genetics' regulatory accomplishment shouldn't require loving the stock too, however. Some executives obsessively assail short sellers publicly, which is often a red flag indicating shorts sellers are onto something. The best management teams don't worry about shorts. They focus on their business with the confidence and understanding that in today's extremely liquid markets, even massive short positions have little impact on a company's long-term prospects. Over time, fundamentals are what make or break a stock. In fact, CEOs should actively seek to meet with the shorts; convince a skeptic and you've created a new shareholder. I've had my say in defense of short selling. I also realize that most people's negative view of short selling isn't going to change. Shorts are, and likely always will be, vilified unfairly. I do feel a little better with that off my chest. Back to Seattle Genetics and Adcetris: Every year, 8,800 Americans develop and 1,300 die from Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL), according the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database. HL is very sensitive to traditional chemotherapy, so front-line treatment produces objective responses (tumor shrinkage) in roughly 80-90% of patients; most patients do not require further therapy for years, if ever. Patients that relapse usually receive high-dose chemotherapy combined with autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT), a procedure that replaces unhealthy cells with healthy ones. This combination yields durable responses in many patients, with three-year progression free survival rates of 50-60%. Adcetris employs a neat drug-delivery technology to kill cancer. The antibody portion of Adcetris attaches to receptors found on the cancer cell. Once attached, Adcetris' toxic drug payload is cleaved off inside the tumor cell where it can maximize efficacy and limit toxicity. In relapsed HL, the Adcetris data are encouraging and clearly warranted FDA accelerated approval. Nearly a third of Adcetris-treated HL patients experienced a complete response (CR) and another 40% had partial tumor shrinkage (a partial response, or PR). Results in sALCL were even better: 59% of patients had a CR and 27% qualified as a PR. Seattle Genetics must still prove Adcetris' clinical benefit in a confirmatory Phase III trial, which the company will start later this year.

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Seattle Genetics: A Cancer Niche Too Small

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

Nuvilex Announces Major Breakthrough in Stem Cell Research

SILVER SPRING, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Nuvilex, Inc. (OTCQB:NVLX), an emerging biotechnology provider of cell and gene therapy solutions, released information today about the companys cell encapsulation technology and the breakthrough in stem cell research which overcomes specific fundamental challenges faced in stem cell therapyhost rejection and migration of implanted cells away from the target site.

Stem cell therapy is believed by many medical researchers as holding a key to treating cancer, Type 1 diabetes mellitus, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Celiac Disease, cardiac failure, muscle damage, neurological disorders, and other chronic, debilitating diseases. There are presently >1,400 registered trials using stem cells that are recruiting patients (ClinicalTrials.gov). The encapsulation technology being advanced allows live stem cells to be implanted into robust, flexible and permeable capsules where they can replicate inside the capsules at the target site free from attack by the bodys immune system and free to undergo natural changes to become the appropriate cell type needed.

The Goldman Small Cap Research report, issued February 29, 2012, noted some inherent difficulties encountered in stem cell treatments, such as keeping stem cells alive for significant periods of time, potential rejection of the cells and subsequent destruction by the recipients immune system, and the migration of the stem cells away from the critical treatment site, while making a distinction that the Companys cell encapsulation technology overcomes these concerns.

The report also accurately recognized, Cells encapsulated in SG Austrias porous beads remain alive for long periods of time in humans, surviving intact for at least two years. Once encapsulated, cells are protected from the bodys immune system. Furthermore, encapsulated cells remain within the beads and do not migrate out of the beads to other sites in the body.

In assessing the overall importance of this technology to Nuvilexs overall business model, Goldman pointed out, The Companys acquisition of the Cell-in-a-Box approach along with the expertise of SG Austria could significantly advance the implementation and utilization of stem cells for a host of debilitating diseases and conditions, in addition to being used to target cancer cells, thus making it a uniquely valuable commodity. We believe that by partnering with leading players in the field, Nuvilex could find that companies with deep pockets would be happy to collaborate or license the delivery system and engage in further research which could result in meaningful development and licensing revenue.

Dr. Robert Ryan, Chief Executive Officer of Nuvilex, added, There is a broad range of expanding research supporting the use of stem cells to treat a variety of human diseases and conditions. Our technology allows for precise maintenance and localization of stem cells, preventing their loss from the critical area of need, that will enable us to potentially create miniature organs at specific sites and as a result we believe greater utilization of those stem cells at the site for their intended purpose, once implanted. As stem cell treatments advance, we expect Nuvilex to be at the forefront of developing new, significant, life changing therapies.

For a detailed review of the research report and valuation methodology, investors are directed to the Goldman Research Report.

About Nuvilex

Nuvilex, Inc. (OTCQB:NVLX) is an emerging international biotechnology provider of clinically useful therapeutic live encapsulated cells and services for encapsulating live cells for the research and medical communities. Through our effort, all aspects of our corporate activities alone, and especially in concert with SG Austria, are rapidly moving toward completion, including closing our agreement. One of our planned offerings will include cancer treatments using the companys industry-leading live-cell encapsulation technology.

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Nuvilex Announces Major Breakthrough in Stem Cell Research

Recommendation and review posted by Bethany Smith

Boosting cell production could help repair damaged liver

Washington, Mar 5 (ANI): Scientists have shed light on how the liver can heal itself by increasing the production of key cells required to treat damaged liver tissue.

The study by researchers at the Medical Research Council (MRC) Centre for Regenerative Medicine at the University of Edinburgh, could help heal livers affected by diseases such as cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis.

Scientists were able to unpick the process of how different cells in the liver are formed.

When the liver is damaged it produces too many bile duct cells and not enough cells called hepatocytes, which the liver needs to repair damaged tissue.hey found they could increase the number of hepatocyte cells - which detoxify the liver - by encouraging these cells to be produced instead of bile duct cells.

Understanding how liver cells are formed could help to develop drugs to encourage the production of hepatocytes to repair liver tissue. This could eventually ease the pressure on waiting lists for liver transplants.

"Liver disease is on the increase in the UK and is one of the top five killers. Increasing numbers of patients are in need of liver transplants, but the supply of donated organs is not keeping pace with the demand," said Professor Stuart Forbes, Associate Director at the MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine at the University of Edinburgh, who is a consultant hepatologist and was the academic leader of the study.

"If we can find ways to encourage the liver to heal itself then we could ease the pressure on waiting lists for liver transplants."

The production of hepatocyte cells was increased by altering the expression of certain genes in early stage liver cells.

"This research helps us know how to increase numbers of cells that are needed for healthy liver function and could pave the way for finding drugs that help liver repair," Dr Luke Boulter, of the University of Edinburgh's MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine and first author on the paper, said.

"Understanding the process in which cells in the liver are formed is key in looking at ways to repair damaged liver tissue."

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Boosting cell production could help repair damaged liver

Recommendation and review posted by sam

Cell find boosts liver disease hope

Boosting the production of certain cells could help treat liver disease, new research has suggested.

Researchers at the Medical Research Council (MRC) Centre for Regenerative Medicine at the University of Edinburgh said they have discovered how to enhance the production of key cells needed to repair damaged liver tissue. The research could help develop treatments for diseases such as cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis.

Scientists hope their work could eventually ease the pressure on waiting lists for liver transplants. Researchers said that when the liver is damaged it produces too many bile duct cells and not enough cells called hepatocytes, which the liver needs to repair damaged tissue.

They found they could increase the number of hepatocyte cells - which detoxify the liver - by encouraging these cells to be produced instead of bile duct cells. Understanding how liver cells are formed could help to develop drugs to encourage the production of hepatocytes to repair liver tissue.

Professor Stuart Forbes, associate director at the MRC, who is a consultant hepatologist and was the academic leader of the study, said: "Liver disease is on the increase in the UK and is one of the top five killers. Increasing numbers of patients are in need of liver transplants, but the supply of donated organs is not keeping pace with the demand.

"If we can find ways to encourage the liver to heal itself then we could ease the pressure on waiting lists for liver transplants."

The production of hepatocyte cells was increased by altering the expression of certain genes in early stage liver cells. The university said that liver disease is the fifth biggest killer in the UK with almost 500 people waiting for a liver transplant, compared with just over 300 five years ago.

Dr Rob Buckle, head of regenerative medicine at the MRC, said: "Liver transplants have saved countless lives over the years, but demand will inevitably outstrip supply and in the long term we need to look beyond replacing damaged tissues to exploiting the regenerative potential of the human body.

"The MRC continues to invest heavily across the breadth of approaches that might deliver the promise of regenerative medicine, and this study opens up the possibility of applying our increasing knowledge of stem cell biology to stimulate the body's own dormant repair processes as a basis for future therapy."

The study is published in the journal Nature Medicine. It was carried out in collaboration with the University's MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, the Beatson Institute for Cancer Research in Glasgow and the KU Leuven in Belgium.

Read more:
Cell find boosts liver disease hope

Recommendation and review posted by sam

Cell find boosts liver disease hope

Boosting the production of certain cells could help treat liver disease, new research has suggested.

Researchers at the Medical Research Council (MRC) Centre for Regenerative Medicine at the University of Edinburgh said they have discovered how to enhance the production of key cells needed to repair damaged liver tissue. The research could help develop treatments for diseases such as cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis.

Scientists hope their work could eventually ease the pressure on waiting lists for liver transplants. Researchers said that when the liver is damaged it produces too many bile duct cells and not enough cells called hepatocytes, which the liver needs to repair damaged tissue.

They found they could increase the number of hepatocyte cells - which detoxify the liver - by encouraging these cells to be produced instead of bile duct cells. Understanding how liver cells are formed could help to develop drugs to encourage the production of hepatocytes to repair liver tissue.

Professor Stuart Forbes, associate director at the MRC, who is a consultant hepatologist and was the academic leader of the study, said: "Liver disease is on the increase in the UK and is one of the top five killers. Increasing numbers of patients are in need of liver transplants, but the supply of donated organs is not keeping pace with the demand.

"If we can find ways to encourage the liver to heal itself then we could ease the pressure on waiting lists for liver transplants."

The production of hepatocyte cells was increased by altering the expression of certain genes in early stage liver cells. The university said that liver disease is the fifth biggest killer in the UK with almost 500 people waiting for a liver transplant, compared with just over 300 five years ago.

Dr Rob Buckle, head of regenerative medicine at the MRC, said: "Liver transplants have saved countless lives over the years, but demand will inevitably outstrip supply and in the long term we need to look beyond replacing damaged tissues to exploiting the regenerative potential of the human body.

"The MRC continues to invest heavily across the breadth of approaches that might deliver the promise of regenerative medicine, and this study opens up the possibility of applying our increasing knowledge of stem cell biology to stimulate the body's own dormant repair processes as a basis for future therapy."

The study is published in the journal Nature Medicine. It was carried out in collaboration with the University's MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, the Beatson Institute for Cancer Research in Glasgow and the KU Leuven in Belgium.

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Cell find boosts liver disease hope

Recommendation and review posted by simmons


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