News

Boost for stem cell technology research

(2 December 2005)

Durham University work on stem cells is a key part of a new regional institute that aims to become one of the world's top 10 stem cell research centres, and take full advantage of the new investment in such work following today's publication of the Pattison Report. (2 December)

A funding package of nearly '25million has been put together by Durham and Newcastle universities and the regional development agency One NorthEast, to establish the Institute of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (ISCBRM) which will be a major contributor to the development of the future regional economy. It will allow the North East to compete on the world stage and is yet further evidence of the region's worldwide reputation as a leader in this rapidly growing industry. And following the report of the UK Stem Cell Initiative (UKSCI) set up by the Chancellor, Gordon Brown, and chaired by Sir John Pattison, the government has said it accepted the report's recommendations, and pledged an extra '50m funding up to 2007. Prof Michael Whitaker, of Newcastle University, Chair of the ISCBRM, said: "We welcome the recommendations made in this report, in particular the call for more funding for stem cell research. It is clear that a sustained programme of funding over several years is crucial if the UK is to maintain its position as world leader in this pioneering area of science. There has been considerable recent investment in California, Korea, Spain, Israel and elsewhere in stem cell research. Sir John's report is intended to ensure that the UK keeps its competitive edge." Durham Vice-Chancellor, Sir Kenneth Calman, .added: 'Durham is making a very significant contribution to this important work, and we will aim to build on the new direction and encouragement marked by Sir John Pattison's report. Durham stem cell research is likely to have an impact on real patients' lives, through the creation of new drugs, diagnostic tools and new spin out companies, within a three to five year period." Investment in the ISCBRM will create 25 jobs comprising mainly scientists and technicians to complement existing staff across the region who will assist the conversion of the region's excellence in stem cell research and technologies into cost-effective, ethically-robust 21st century health solutions to improve degenerative diseases, the effects of ageing and serious injury. In particular, new facilities at Durham University will provide a high-level service to stem cell scientists across the region in proteomics, imaging and polymer chemistry. New technical support facilities in fluorescent cell sorting and microscopy among others will also be available to scientists all over the North East contributing to the provision of state-of-the-art facilities for the region.