This Is AWESOME

Next Step for Stem Cells

Geron Corporation just got permission from the FDA to start human trials of a new medication based on human embryonic stem cells, according to an article on the CellNews blog.  This will be the first clinical trial of a stem cell based therapy in humans.  The new therapy is designed to treat acute spinal cord injuries, and hopes to restore function to the damaged tissues.  Translation, to make people who are currently paralyzed walk again.

I know there are a lot of concerns and controversies over stem cell research, but as someone with a friend who has spinal damage, this makes me smile.