Monday August 9, 2010
This is a great initiative. The International Society for Stem Cell Research has recently started a a the ISSCR Task Force on Unproven Stem Cell Treatments to investigate individual clinics that claim to be providing stem cell treatments and cures. Called "A Closer Look at Stem Cell Treatments," their website gives people the opportunity to submit the name of clinics for review. From what I understand, the Society is not going to look at patient outcome data, but really wants to make sure that patients' rights are protected and that the clinics are being supervised by regulatory bodies in their countries or regions.
Before anyone jumps to the conclusion that this organization is comprised of a bunch of nay-sayers or people who are against embryonic stem cell research and trying to shut down such efforts, let me reassure you that this group is interested in the integrity of stem cell science and medicine because they believe in it. These are people working in the field who want to keep stem cell science clean and free of scandal and charlatans. As their website states:
"The International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR; http://www.isscr.org/) is an independent, nonprofit organization established to promote and foster the exchange and dissemination of information and ideas relating to stem cells, to encourage the general field of research involving stem cells and to promote professional and public education in all areas of stem cell research and application. Members are admitted on the basis of their professional credentials as scientists or clinicians working in the field of stem cell research."
The website also offers great resources for anyone interested in stem cell approaches, such as The Patient Handbook on Stem Cell Therapies and articles explaining the current state of stem cell research and treatment.
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