Stem cells are, potentially, one of the most important emerging biotherapeutic medicines. The use of stem cells holds out hope for a treatment for a range of health problems including spinal trauma, diabetes, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

The key to the success of this new technology is that consistent, quality-assured and defined cell lines can be provided to accredited researchers. This is especially important as there is a considerable potential for profit and thus a potential for misuse of these new medicines. A dedicated and independent cell bank is essential if stem cells are to achieve their potential as a biological medicine of the future.

In order to further this new and exciting area of medicine, the UK government has made a commitment to UK research and development in this area and money was made available through the research councils for a cell banking facility, entirely dedicated to holding stem cells, for both research and, eventually, therapeutic use.

To visit the UK Stem Cell Bank website please click on the link below.

www.ukstemcellbank.org.uk.