Stem Cells In Action

I haven't written anything on this blog for awhile. Since the last post, the ASSCR has become firmly established. It now has seventy members. We have organised our first Meeting, during the AHMR Congress, 17th November, Brisbane Convention Centre. At this meeting we will have our Annual General Meeting and elect members of the committee, including positions of President, Vice President, Treasurer. If you are interested, then now is the time to become actively involved in this Society.

We also have Sponsors: Stem Cell Technologies and Stem Cell Sciences and the National Centre for Adult Stem Cell Research at Griffith University.

 One of the aims of the ASSCR is to facilitate public discussion about stem cells and surrounding issues. In accordance with this, we have organised a forum called 'Stem Cells In Action' which will be part of our meeting on November 17th, Brisbane. This is to discuss where New Zealand and Australia are situated with regards to the translation of some stem cell research. This discussion may reveal what clinical trials are current and who has access to treatments. Other issues that may be addressed are:

•    Is the Australia/New Zealand stem cell community fully supportive of clinical trials?
•    Is the science ready to translate stem cells clinic?
•    What types of stem cells are currently being used in clinical trials?
•    Are the regulatory guidelines on par with the current translational research?
•    With expectations being high, are patients being adequately informed?

Participants include: Bernie Tuch (Prince of Wales Transplant Unit), Ed Baetge (Novocell, California), Ian Lewis (Hanson Institute), Alan McKay-Sim (Griffith Uni), Kerry Atkinson (Mater Medical Research Institute, Queensland), Silviu Itescu (Mesoblast), Megan Munsie (Australian Stem Cell Centre), Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration.

Although part of the AH&MR Congress, anyone who is interested can attend, to encourage discussions between scientists and the community. If you are interested in attending or want further information, email info@asscr.org.

Stem Cells In Action: Brisbane Convention Centre,
Monday 17th November 1.30 to 3 pm

More information about the ASSCR and the ASSCR Annual Meeting at www.asscr.org