Category Archives: Stem Cell Research

MDS hopes to stop this practice by educating the public on the importance of participating only in studies at accredited research institutions.

MILWAUKEE (PRWEB) February 09, 2021

The International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Societys Scientific Issues Committee (MDS-SIC), led by Stella Papa and Un Jung Kang, has commissioned a brief review of the current place of cell-based therapies for Parkinsons disease (PD), and ultimately encourages patients to participate only in cell therapy studies that are part of a research program affiliated with a recognized academic or clinical institution.

Theoretically, cell-based therapies, including the use of stem cells, could be used to replace or repair the cells lost or damaged in the disease process, thereby improving symptoms. While advances in cell-based research may ultimately provide potential new therapies for patients with PD, science has yet to fully establish a number of challenging aspects of stem cell therapy including specific cell type, method of administration, clinical effect and long-term safety.

Several business enterprises worldwide offer stem cell therapies for PD, making unsubstantiated claims of considerable benefit to the patient. Due to the potential for very serious side effects, the Society cautions patients to avoid any treatments carried out without adequate scientific research, and encourages patients to participate only in cell therapies affiliated with a recognized research institution.

MDS President, Claudia Trenkwalder, adds, This timely statement is an excellent scientific summary of the risks for persons with Parkinsons disease when selecting a treatment offering which is not scientifically, but purely economically driven. MDS hopes to stop this practice by educating the public on the importance of participating only in studies at accredited research institutions.

Read the full MDS statement and position paper cautioning against unproven cell-based therapies for Parkinson's disease.

About the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society: The International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society (MDS), an international society of over 10,000 clinicians, scientists, and other healthcare professionals, is dedicated to improving patient care through education and research. For more information about MDS, visit http://www.movementdisorders.org.

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The International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society (MDS) Continues to Caution Against Unproven Cell-Based Therapies for Parkinson's Disease -...

After a favorable program review in December 2020, NASA has exercised its option to renew the Houston-based Translational Research Institute for Space Health (TRISH) until 2028. TRISH works closely with NASAs Human Research Program in advancing innovations in biomedical research to protect astronauts on deep space missions.

The Institute will receive additional funding up to $134.6 million from 2022 to 2028. It will continue delivering innovative solutions that mitigate health and performance decrements anticipated for humans in deep space, while advancing terrestrial health technologies.

Led by Baylor College of Medicines Center for Space Medicine, TRISH is a consortium that includes partners California Institute of Technology and Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

NASA has received outstanding value from our bold approach to sourcing and advancing space health research and technologies, said institute director Dr. Dorit Donoviel. We are proud to be NASAs partner in its human space exploration mission and to be supporting the research necessary to create new frontiers in healthcare that will benefit all humans.

Baylor College of Medicine was awarded the cooperative agreement from the NASA Human Research Program in 2016 to form TRISH. The Institute was tasked to find and fund innovative research, educate and disseminate space health information, develop a community of high-caliber scientists and provide leadership in the field of human health in deep space.

When NASA conducted its review of the Institute at the beginning of the fifth year of operations in December 2020, TRISH had:

The NASA Review Committee identified as strengths TRISHs ability to identify and support highly innovative or game-changing projects, its strong science team and the implementation of innovative approaches to collaboration.

In the next six years, TRISH will tackle three initiatives to bring future Mars exploration missions into clearer focus. First, TRISH will build strategic partnerships, including with commercial spaceflight companies, to increase the volume of available biometric data on the impact of space travel on health and performance.

In addition, TRISH is building a digital platform to simulate the spaceflight environment, which will allow researchers to model and test new health technologies without needing to leave Earth.

Finally, the Institute recognizes that the future of space exploration must include all humans. TRISH will leverage tissue chip technology to place a variety of human cells in lunar orbit as part of NASAs Artemis research missions. These personalized avatars will expand the possibilities of tracking the effects of space radiation and microgravity on human stem-cell derived mini-organs from different individuals.

Learn more about the Translational Research Institute for space Health at bcm.edu/spacehealth.

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NASA grants renewal and funding for deep space health protections - Baylor College of Medicine News

Regenerative medicine contributed to patient care in 2020 more than ever before, bolstered by synergies in research, practice and education. Mayo Clinics Center for Regenerative Medicine is at the forefront of a biotherapy revolution in which health care advances from treating disease to restoring health.

The centrality of the body to regenerate itself is paving the way for new horizons in regenerative care. The triad of protecting against disease, preventing disease progression and promoting healing is at the core of the regenerative vision, says Andre Terzic, M.D., Ph.D., director of Mayo Clinics Center for Regenerative Medicine. To this end, the regenerative toolkit has grown more robust over the past year with new technologies now available to boost the bodys ability to repair and restore health of an organ and importantly of the patient as a whole.

The convergence of research, practice and education, empowered by strong innovation and advanced biomanufacturing, is creating an increased level of readiness for applying validated regenerative science to new areas of health care, Dr. Terzic says.

Practice advancement

A deeper understanding of the biology of health and disease is driving the ongoing regenerative medicine evolution.

The remarkable progress in science that is advancing our fundamental comprehension of both health and disease has guided the informed and responsible development of patient-ready curative strategies, says Dr. Terzic.

New discoveries at Mayo Clinic that may shape future practice include:

Validating safety and efficacy of

stem cell therapy for heart failure. The largest regenerative medicine clinical trial to date for heart failure, spanning 39 medical centers and 315 patients from 10 countries, validated the long-term safety of stem cell therapy. The late-stage research found stem cell therapy shows particular benefit for patients with advanced left ventricular enlargement. This Mayo Clinic-led study offers guidance on which patients are most likely

to respond to stem cell therapy for heart failure.

Uncovering stem cell activation of healing. Mayo Clinic researchers uncovered stem cell-activated molecular mechanisms of healing after a heart attack. Stem cells restored the makeup of failing cardiac muscle back to its condition before the heart attack, providing an intimate blueprint of how they may work to heal diseased tissue. This research offers utility to delineate and interpret complex regenerative outcomes.

Discovering a molecular light switch. Mayo Clinic research discovered a molecular switch that turns on a substance that repairs neurological damage. This early research could bolster a therapy approved by the Food and Drug Administration, and that could lead to new strategies for treating diseases of the central nervous system such as multiple sclerosis.

The federal regulatory environment is making it possible to more seamlessly integrate new discoveries into the practice. The 21st Century Cures Act, for example, seeks to create an accelerated path to market for safe, validated procedures that could provide new therapies for patients with serious conditions.

To read the rest of this article on the Center for Regenerative Medicine blog, visit http://www.regenerativemedicineblog.mayoclinic.org.

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Regenerative medicine is advancing health care in diverse ways - Hometown Focus

New York, Jan. 18, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Increased investment in advanced technologies for treatment of genetic and chronic diseases is driving growth of the regenerative medicine market.Market Size USD 7.34 Billion in 2019, Market Growth - CAGR of 15.6%, Market TrendsApplications in COVID-19 vaccine.

The global regenerative medicine market is forecast to reach a market size of USD 23.57 Billion by 2027, and register a robustly incline revenue growth, according to a new report by Reports and Data. Primary factors driving demand for regenerative medicines are advancements in surgical technology and monitoring devices, and major increase in prevalence of complex and degenerative diseases. Upsurge in incidence of cancers has been resulting in increasing research into stem cell therapy. Growth in research and development activities in emerging countries and rising focus on stem cell research is resulting in significant growth in the global revenue of regenerative medicine market.

Stem cell technology is growing rapidly and continues to play a crucial role in regenerative medicine and the related field. This technology opens up the possibility of treating Parkinsons Disease, arthritis, and spinal cord injury. Increase in demand for stem cell technology is a major factor driving growth of the regenerative medicine market.

Request free sample of this research report at: https://www.reportsanddata.com/sample-enquiry-form/3735

Recent developments in regenerative medicine for 3D bioprinting, stem cell treatment for heart repair, and vision loss has created demand for additional investments in the R&D of the technology to help with other diseases.

The COVID-19 impact:

Demand for regenerative medicine has witnessed increased demand during the COVID-19 pandemic. Regenerative medicine helps in understanding a mechanism of infection and to develop ways to prevent the spread of the virus. It is also being used to create advanced treatments to treat persons infected by the COVID-19 virus. Private companies are also using it to develop an effective vaccine for COVID-19.

Regenerative Medicine Market Size, Share & Industry Demand By Product (Tissue-Engineered Products, Cell Therapies, Gene Therapies, Progenitor & Stem Cell Therapies), By Application (Musculoskeletal Disorders, Oncology, Wound Care, By Material), and Region, Segment Forecast to 2027, To identify the key trends in the industry, click on the link below: https://www.reportsanddata.com/report-detail/regenerative-medicine-market

Further key findings from the report suggest

List of Key Companies Identified in the Regenerative Medicine Market Report:

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For the purpose of this report, Reports and Data has segmented into the global regenerative medicine market on the basis of product, application, material, and region:

Browse similar research reports:Cell Therapy Market By Therapy Type (Allogeneic Stem Cell Therapy, Autologous Stem Cell Therapy), By Therapeutic Area (Malignancies, Autoimmune Disorders, Musculoskeletal Disorders), By Cell Type, And By End User, Forecasts To 2027

Tissue Engineering Market Size, Growth & Analysis, By Material, By Application (Cancer, Urology, Neurology, Dental, Cell Banking & Cord Blood, Gynecology, Integumentary/Skin, Spine, Musculoskeletal, & Orthopedics, Vascular & Cardiology), And Region, Segment Forecasts To 2027

Gene Expression Market By Product And Services (Equipment, Consumables, And Services), By Capacity (Low- To Mid- Plex Gene Expression Analysis And High-Plex Gene Expression Analysis), By Application (Diagnostic, Drug Discovery, Research), And Segment Forecasts To 2027

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Regenerative Medicine Market Size Worth $23.57 Bn By 2027; High demand for 3D bioprinting of tissues and organs to better understand their mechanism...

Assistant Professor in Stem Cell Biology or RegenerativeBiology

Applications are invited for a tenure-track faculty position at thelevel of Assistant Professor in the Department of Developmental andCell Biology. We seek candidates with an interest in stem cell orregeneration biology, broadly defined. Applicants should pursueresearch in the major areas of interest of the department,including, but not limited to developmental biology, stem celland/or niche biology, regeneration and cancer stem cells. Prioritywill be given to candidates whose research will benefit frominterdisciplinary collaborations, interactions with members of thedepartment (http://devcell.bio.uci.edu), andfrom affiliation with campus centers and institutes.

The successful applicant is expected to conduct a vibrant researchprogram, contribute to the teaching and service missions of theUniversity of California, and share our commitment to diversity,equity and inclusion. Please send a curriculum vitae, 3-pagesummary of research accomplishments and goals, 1-page statement ofteaching and mentoring experience and philosophy, 1-page statementhighlighting past and/or potential contributions to diversity,equity and inclusion, and at least three letters of reference viathe online recruitment URL: https://recruit.ap.uci.edu/apply/JPF06561. Evaluation criteria for the research, teaching, and diversitystatements are provided at the online recruitment URL. Applicationscompleted by March 7, 2021 will be granted full consideration. Anyquestions about the suitability of an applicant for thisopportunity can be directed to the search chair, Peter Donovanpdonovan@uci.edu.

The UCI School of Biological Sciences is recognized as a nationalleader in the development of programs designed to increase theparticipation of underrepresented groups in the biomedical sciencesand is firmly committed to the ideals of equity, diversity, andinclusion (https://port.bio.uci.edu/about/,https://equity.bio.uci.edu). UCIis an Hispanic-Serving Institution, an Asian American and NativeAmerican Pacific Islander Serving Institution, and a chartermember of the AAAS SEA Change initiative that supportsinstitutional efforts to increase access and success for students,faculty and staff from groups marginalized in STEMM (https://www.aaas.org/news/four-new-charter-members-join-sea-change).Programs are available to meet the needs of dual-career academicpartners. Faculty are eligible for subsidized housing and aMortgage Origination Program. UC Irvine (https://uci.edu) is located 10 minutes fromthe coast (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82ARz3B60pU),is consistently ranked among the nations top 10 publicuniversities, and has recently been designated the #1 universitydoing the most for the American dream. The city of Irvine is hometo excellent parks, schools, entertainment opportunities, and adiverse citizenry.

The University of California, Irvine is an EqualOpportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusiveexcellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration foremployment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexualorientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age,protected veteran status, or other protectedcategories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy. A recipientof an NSF ADVANCE award for gender equity, UCI is responsive to theneeds of dual career couples, supports work-life balance through anarray of family-friendly policies, and is dedicated to broadeningparticipation in higher education.

The University of California is committed to creating andmaintaining a community dedicated to the advancement, application,and transmission of knowledge and creative endeavors throughacademic excellence, where all individuals who participate inUniversity programs and activities can work and learn together in asafe and secure environment, free of violence, harassment,discrimination, exploitation, or intimidation. With thiscommitment, as well as a commitment to addressing all forms ofacademic misconduct, UC Irvine conducts institutional referencechecks for candidate finalists to whom the department or otherhiring unit would like to extend a formal offer of appointment intoLadder Rank Professor or Professor of Teaching series, at all ranks(i.e., assistant, associate, and full). The institutional referencechecks involve contacting the administration of the applicantsprevious institution(s) to ask whether there have beensubstantiated findings of misconduct that would violate theUniversitys Faculty Code of Conduct. To implement this process, UCIrvine requires all candidates of Ladder Rank Professor orProfessor of Teaching series, at all ranks (i.e., assistant,associate, and full) to complete, sign, and upload the formentitled Authorization to Release Information into AP RECRUIT aspart of their application. If the candidate does not include thesigned authorization to release information with the applicationmaterials, the application will be considered incomplete. As withany incomplete application, the application will not receivefurther consideration. Although all applicants for facultyrecruitments must complete the entire application, only finalists(i.e., those to whom the department or other hiring unit would liketo extend a formal offer) considered for Ladder Rank Professor orProfessor of Teaching series, at all ranks (i.e., assistant,associate, and full) positions will be subject to institutionalreference checks.

REQUIREMENTS Curriculum Vitae Cover Letter Three letters of Reference Statement of Research Three pages.1. One page describing the significance and impact of your graduateand postdoctoral research.2. Two pages providing a plan for your future independent researchprogram that indicates how your research program will synergizewith the research environment at UCI (see e.g., https://www.bio.uci.edu/centers-institutes) Statement of Teaching One page.1. Describe any experience teaching/lecturing toundergraduates/graduate students or other populations and mentoringothers.2. Explain your teaching philosophy and describe how you willengage in teaching strategies that are effective in diversepopulations. Statement of Contributions to Diversity(http://www.uci.edu/diversity) One page.1. Indicate how you have demonstrated awareness of the issues facedby historically underrepresented or economically disadvantagedgroups and the benefits of a diverse and inclusive faculty.2. Provide evidence (if any) of your track record and success inactivities aimed at reducing barriers in education or research forunderrepresented or disadvantaged groups.3. Detail your specific plans (if any) to contribute through campusprograms, new activities, or through national or off-campusorganizations.

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Assistant Professor in Stem Cell Biology or Regenerative Biology job with University of California, Irvine | 312638 - The Chronicle of Higher...

TUESDAY, Jan. 19, 2021 (HealthDay News) -- A promising step toward using retinal cell transplants to treat blindness is reported in a new study.

Adult retinal stem cells from deceased human donors survived when they were transplanted into the eyes of non-human primates, according to the researchers.

The cells were taken from the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). It is a layer of cells that supports and nourishes the retina, the light-sensitive tissue that lines the back of the eye. It helps maintain normal vision.

RPE dysfunction can result in disorders such as macular degeneration and can cause blindness, which affects about 200 million people worldwide.

"The results of this study suggest human adult donor RPE is safe to transplant, strengthening the argument for human clinical trials for treating retina disease," said co-lead investigator Timothy Blenkinsop. He's an assistant professor of cell, developmental and regenerative biology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, in New York City.

For the study, his team transplanted cell-derived patches under the primates' maculas. The transplants remained stable and integrated for at least three months with no serious side effects, such as being attacked by the immune system or light sensitivity, according to the report published Jan. 14 in the journal Stem Cell Reports.

The stem cell-derived RPE assumed some of the function of the original RPE, and also supported a photoreceptor that helps with functions such as light and water absorption, the findings showed.

"We have demonstrated human cadaver donor-derived RPE at least partially replaces function in the macula of a non-human primate," Blenkinsop said in a Mount Sinai news release.

Results of animal studies, however, often differ in humans.

The study authors said RPE stem cell transplantation is a possible treatment for macular degeneration, but further research is needed to confirm that.

Future studies should assess whether such transplants can restore vision in people and diseased eyes in non-human primates, the researchers said.

More information

The U.S. National Eye Institute has more on age-related macular degeneration.

SOURCE: Mount Sinai Hospital, news release, Jan. 14, 2021

Link:
Promising Steps Toward Retinal Cell Transplants to Fight Blindness - HealthDay News

Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - January 22, 2021) - .Hemostemix Inc (TSXV: HEM) (OTC: HMTXD) ("Hemostemix" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has signed the Building Relationships Entrepreneurs & Dealmakers (BREAD) contract with the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development. An initiative to assist high-potential, biotech focused Canadian Small and Medium Enterprise (SMEs), the program is designed to accelerate the growth of Hemostemix and other Canadian biotechnology companies.

"We are actively working with the Trade Commissioner Service of CANADA in the USA, Japan and South Korea to source qualified partners to go to market with," stated Thomas Smeenk, CEO. "The BREAD agreement marks our Company's starting point to out-license ACP-01, and it generates our sponsorship into BioCom."

ABOUT THE TRADE COMMISSIONER SERVICE OF CANADA

The Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) plays an active role in helping Canadian companies achieve their goals of growth into international markets. Its services focus on helping companies prepare for international markets, assessing market potential, finding qualified contacts and partners and resolving problems.

ABOUT HEMOSTEMIX

Hemostemix is a publicly traded autologous stem cell therapy company, founded in 2003. A winner of the World Economic Forum Technology Pioneer Award, the Company developed and is commercializing its lead product ACP-01 for the treatment of CLI, PAD, Angina, Ischemic Cardiomyopathy, Dilated Cardiomyopathy and other conditions of ischemia. ACP-01 has been used to treat over 300 patients, and it is the subject of a randomized, placebo-controlled, double blind trial of its safety and efficacy in patients with advanced critical limb ischemia who have exhausted all other options to save their limb from amputation.

On October 21, 2019, the Company announced the results from its Phase II CLI trial abstract presentation entitled "Autologous Stem Cell Treatment for CLI Patients with No Revascularization Options: An Update of the Hemostemix ACP-01 Trial With 4.5 Year Follow-up", which noted healing of ulcers and resolution of ischemic rest pain occurred in 83% of patients, with outcomes maintained for up to 4.5 years.

The Company owns 91 patents across five patent families titled: Regulating Stem Cells, In Vitro Techniques for use with Stem Cells, Production from Blood of Cells of Neural Lineage, and Automated Cell Therapy. For more information, please visitwww.hemostemix.com.

For further information, please contact:

Thomas Smeenk, President, CEO & Co-FounderSuite 1150, 707 - 7thAvenue S.W., Calgary, Alberta T2P 3H6Phone: 905-580-4170

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined under the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Forward-Looking Information: This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking information. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking information in relation to: the commercialization of ACP-01. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking information will prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. This forward-looking information reflects Hemostemix's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to Hemostemix and on assumptions Hemostemix believes are reasonable. These assumptions include, but are not limited to: the underlying value of Hemostemix and its common shares; the successful resolution of the litigation that Hemostemix is pursuing or defending (the "Litigation"); the results of ACP-01 research, trials studies and analysis, including the midpoint analysis, being equivalent to or better than previous research, trials or studies as well as management's expectations of anticipated results; Hemostemix's general and administrative costs remaining constant; the receipt of all required regulatory approvals for research, trials or studies; the level of activity, market acceptance and market trends in the healthcare sector; the economy generally; consumer interest in Hemostemix's services and products; competition and Hemostemix's competitive advantages; and Hemostemix obtaining satisfactory financing to fund Hemostemix's operations including any research, trials or studies, and the Litigation. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Hemostemix to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks and other factors may include, but are not limited to: the ability of Hemostemix to complete its current CLI clinical trial, complete a satisfactory futility analysis and the results of such and future clinical trials; litigation and potential litigation that Hemostemix may face; general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; general capital market conditions and market prices for securities; delay or failure to receive board or regulatory approvals; the actual results of future operations including the actual results of future research, trials or studies; competition; changes in legislation affecting Hemostemix; the timing and availability of external financing on acceptable terms; long-term capital requirements and future developments in Hemostemix's markets and the markets in which it expects to compete; lack of qualified, skilled labour or loss of key individuals; and risks related to the COVID-19 pandemic including various recommendations, orders and measures of governmental authorities to try to limit the pandemic, including travel restrictions, border closures, non-essential business closures, service disruptions, quarantines, self-isolations, shelters-in-place and social distancing, disruptions to markets, disruptions to economic activity and financings, disruptions to supply chains and sales channels, and a deterioration of general economic conditions including a possible national or global recession or depression; the potential impact that the COVID-19 pandemic may have on Hemostemix may include a decreased demand for the services that Hemostemix offers; and a deterioration of financial markets that could limit Hemostemix's ability to obtain external financing. A description of additional risk factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking information can be found in Hemostemix's disclosure documents on the SEDAR website atwww.sedar.com. Although Hemostemix has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the expectations of Hemostemix as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, it is subject to change after such date. However, Hemostemix expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visithttps://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/72606

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Hemostemix Announces the Bread Contract with the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade & Development Canada - BioSpace

In an award-winning study, researchers from The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) discovered a gene signaling pathway linked to a higher risk for developing schizophrenia by observing human-induced pluripotent stem cells created from blood samples of a single family. The pathway, phosphoinositide 3-kinase/glycogen synthase kinase 3 (PI3K/GSK3), contains differentially expressed genes, including serum-glucocorticoid kinase 1 (SGK1). This is an inhibitor of GSK3 beta and has been associated with schizophrenia.1

We believe this has direct implications for the treatment of patients, senior author Consuelo Walss-Bass, PhD, MD, said to the press. There is a new antipsychotic that just received approval from the Food and Drug Administration that directly targets the pathway we identified as dysregulated in neurons from the patients, and several other antipsychotics also target this pathway. This could help pinpoint who may respond better to treatments.2

Walss-Bass, the first author, and postdoctoral research fellow Laura Stertz, PhD, took blood samples from members of a large Costa Rican family with multiple individuals with schizophrenia. The blood cells were changed into stem cells using human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) technology. These cells were then redirected to become brain neurons. This allowed them to be studied in a virtual biopsy and compared to neurons from family members who did not have schizophrenia.

In the biopsies, researchers saw 5 schizophrenia candidate genes previously identified by genome association studies. Alterations caused by gene SGK1, which inhibits GSK3 activity, are linked to whether a person has a higher risk of schizophrenia.

Walss-Bass had this to say on the discovery: Mental health research has lagged behind because we don't know what is happening biologically. We are diagnosing people based on what they are telling us. Even postmortem, the brain tissue in mental health disorders looks perfectly fine. In Alzheimer disease, you can see a difference compared to controls. But not in psychiatric disorders. Now by studying virtual brain biopsies, we can tell what is happening biologically.2

Walss-Bass also said that identifying patients with specific biological pathway markers could identify them as the best candidates for medications. This pre-emptive, personal pharmacology may be what is needed to best treat psychiatric disorders.

We were able to find significant, meaningful differences with a small control group, Walss-Bass said. Neurons of patients with schizophrenia had alterations in the signaling pathway. This research may help to understand how or why some antipsychotics targeting GSK3 work and also to develop other target-specific medications.2

References

1. Stertz L, Di Re J, Pei G, Fries G, et al. Convergent genomic and pharmacological evidence of PI3K/GSK3 signaling alterations in neurons from schizophrenia patients. Neuropsychopharmacol. 2020;46:673682.

2. University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Gene pathway linked to schizophrenia identified through stem cell engineering. News release. Science Daily. December 21, 2020. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/12/201221134136.htm

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Gene Pathway Linked to Development of Schizophrenia - Psychiatric Times

Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant (AHSCT) induces a reduction in relapse rate and physical disability in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) who respond inadequately to other treatments, a small study suggests.

The study, Selective cognitive dysfunction and physical disability improvement after autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in highly active multiple sclerosis, was published in the journal Nature Scientific Reports.

AHSCT is an experimental approach to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) that is meant to rebuild a patients immune system in order to stop attacks on the brain and spinal cord.

The procedure begins with collecting a patients own (meaning autologous) healthy hematopoietic stem cells immature cells that can develop into all types of blood cells from the bone marrow. These cells are put back into the patient after a fairly non-aggressive combination of chemotherapy is given to kill the patients immune cells.

A team of researchers at the Vilnius University, in Lithuania, evaluated the effectiveness and safety of the AHSCT procedure in 24 patients (18 female, mean age 37.8 years) with highly active RRMS (mean disease duration of 8.6 years) who failed to respond to conventional therapies.

The aim of the study was to assess cognitive dysfunction and physical disability after AHSCT, to explore the potential factors influencing disability regression after the transplant, and to estimate the safety of low-dose immunosuppressive therapy in highly active relapsing MS patients.

Researchers assessed participants disability and cognition through changes in several functional measures, including the expanded disability status scale (EDSS) and the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for MS, which includes three cognitive domains measured by the symbol digit modalities test, brief visuospatial memory test revised, and California verbal learning test second edition.

Of the 24 patients, 13 (54.2%) completed a 24-month follow-up and were included in the efficacy analysis of AHSCT. From those, two (15.4%) had one relapse during the first year after AHSCT and three patients (23.1%) had one relapse during the second year after AHSCT.

The annualized relapse rate (ARR) was 2.7 one year before AHSCT and 1.9 at two years before AHSCT. After the AHSCT procedure, ARR dropped to 0.2 in the first year and to 0.3 in the second year. This represented an 89% reduction in ARR, when comparing the values at two years after AHSCT with those at two years before AHSCT.

The researchers also noted a reduction in disability progression (as measured by EDSS scores), with 84.6% of patients improving their disability score after AHSCT at month six and 76.9% at one year. Additionally, 76.9% of patients showed stable disability scores two years after the transplant.

The findings of EDSS improvement in almost 85% of the patients suggest that disability may be often at least temporarily reversible in patients with highly active [relapsing] MS if they receive suitable and well-timed treatment, the researchers wrote.

Using appropriate statistical models, researchers found that the clinical variable that explained the disability regression at months 6 and 12 after AHSCT was the disability progression over 6 months before AHSCT.

Improvements in cognition after AHSCT also were observed. Specifically, the scores of information processing speed and verbal learning, measured by the symbol digit modalities test, were significantly higher at month 12 after AHSCT (56.8) when compared to month three (48.3).

The score of brief visuospatial memory test revised that assesses visuospatial memory was slightly lower at month three (25.6) than before AHSCT (27.8), however, the difference was not significant.

The score of the California verbal learning test, which assesses verbal learning, was significantly higher at month 12 (63.6) than before AHSCT (55.2).

No new or active lesions were found on MRI after AHSCT, suggesting that all patients remained without radiological disease activity.

Furthermore, regarding safety, the incidence and severity of adverse events (side effects) after AHSCT were in the expected range and all were resolved. There were no transplant-related deaths reported.

Researchers noted several limitations to the studys findings, including the low sample size and the fact that the patientss assessment and follow-ups were provided at the same center without a comparative group.

Nonetheless, the outcomes are highly promising, as compared to conventional MS treatment, the researchers wrote. Further research is needed to replicate these findings and to assess long-term outcomes and safety of AHSCT.

Diana holds a PhD in Biomedical Sciences, with specialization in genetics, from Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal. Her work has been focused on enzyme function, human genetics and drug metabolism.

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Patrcia holds her PhD in Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases from the Leiden University Medical Center in Leiden, The Netherlands. She has studied Applied Biology at Universidade do Minho and was a postdoctoral research fellow at Instituto de Medicina Molecular in Lisbon, Portugal. Her work has been focused on molecular genetic traits of infectious agents such as viruses and parasites.

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Stem Cell Transplant Reduces Relapses and Disability in RRMS... - Multiple Sclerosis News Today

PHOENIX, Dec. 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ --Creative Medical Technology Holdings Inc., (OTC CELZ) announced today positive preclinical data supporting the utilization of its ImmCelz cell based immunotherapy for treatment of stroke. In an animal model of ischemia stroke, the middle cerebral artery ligation model, administration of ImmCelz resulted in 34% reduction in infarct volume, whereas control bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells reduced infarct volume by 21%. Additionally, improvements in functional recovery where observed using the Rotarod test. At 28 days after induction of stroke the animals receiving ImmCelz had superior running time (92% of non-stroke controls) compared to animals which received bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (73% of non-stroke control). Animals that received saline had a running time that was 50% of non-stroke controls.

"The regenerative potential of immune cells that have been programmed by stem cells is a fascinating and novel area of research." Said Dr. Amit Patel, coinventor of ImmCelz, and board member of the Company. "Conceptual advantages of using reprogrammed T cells include higher migratory ability due to smaller size, as well as ability to replicate and potentially form "regenerative memory cells."

"This data, which is covered by our previous filed patents, such as no. 15/987739, Generation of autologous immune modulatory cells for treatment of neurological conditions, demonstrate that immune modulation via this stem cell based method may be a novel and superior way of addressing the $30 billion dollar market for stroke therapeutics1." Said Dr. Thomas Ichim, coinventor of the patent and Chief Scientific Officer of the Company. "The fact that this technology, which has priority back to 2017, is demonstrating such stunning results, motivates us to consider filing an Investigational New Drug Application for use in stroke."

Creative Medical Technology Holdings possesses numerous issued patents in the area of cellular therapy including patent no. 10,842,815 covering use of T regulatory cells for spinal disc regeneration, patent no. 9,598,673 covering stem cell therapy for disc regeneration, patent no. 10,792,310 covering regeneration of ovaries using endothelial progenitor cells and mesenchymal stem cells, patent no. 8,372,797 covering use of stem cells for erectile dysfunction, and patent no. 7,569,385 licensed from the University of California covering a novel stem cell type.

"While stroke historically has been a major area of unmet medical need, the rise in stroke cases , as well as the fact that younger people are increasingly falling victim to stroke, strongly motivates us to accelerate our developmental programs and to continue to explore participation of Big Pharma in this space." Said Timothy Warbington, President and CEO of the Company. "We are eager to replicate the existing experiments start compiling the dossier needed to take ImmCelz into humans using the Investigational New Drug Application (IND) route through the FDA."

About Creative Medical Technology Holdings

Creative Medical Technology Holdings, Inc. is a commercial stage biotechnology company specializing in stem cell technology in the fields of urology, neurology and orthopedics and trades on the OTC under the ticker symbol CELZ. For further information about the company, please visitwww.creativemedicaltechnology.com.

Forward Looking Statements

OTC Markets has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain forward-looking statements including but not limited to comments regarding the timing and content of upcoming clinical trials and laboratory results, marketing efforts, funding, etc. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and, therefore, involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements. See the periodic and other reports filed by Creative Medical Technology Holdings, Inc. with the Securities and Exchange Commission and available on the Commission's website atwww.sec.gov.

Timothy Warbington, CEO[emailprotected] CreativeMedicalHealth.com

Creativemedicaltechnology.comwww.StemSpine.comwww.Caverstem.comwww.Femcelz.com

1 Stroke Management Market Size Forecasts 2026 | Statistics Report (gminsights.com)

SOURCE Creative Medical Technology Holdings, Inc.

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Creative Medical Technology Holdings Announces Successful Application of ImmCelz Immunotherapy for Treatment of Stroke - PRNewswire