New stem cell insertion method eliminates cancer risk

Inserting genes into adult stem cells can reprogram them to act like embryonic stem cells, with the potential to grow into a variety of different types of cells that can be used to create new tissue. But the retroviruses used to insert the genes needed for reprogramming cause permanent genetic damage that can trigger cancer as well as a variety of adverse reactions.

Now scientists at the Harvard Stem Cell Institute say they have found a way around that hurdle. By substituting adenoviruses in place of the retroviruses they can avoid the genetic damage and eliminate the cancer risk. At least, that process worked in mice.

"The adenovirus doesn't integrate permanently, so the cells aren't altered genetically," said Konrad Hochedlinger, a geneticist at Harvard Stem Cell Institute and lead author of the paper.

- read the story in the Wall Street Journal

Related Articles:
Stem cells dramatically reduce brain damage in study
Stem cell study improves survival of ALS animals
Stem cell summit tackles thorny research issues
ESCs provide a key to new blood supply