Stem Cell Network Launched

Stem Cell Network Launched

A Stem Cell and Regenerative Technologies (SCaRT) Network has been launched by NZBio, the national biotech industry body.

The NZBio/SCaRT Network provides a forum for groups and individuals across divergent sectors with an interest in research and development relating to tissue and organ regeneration. The emphasis is on research using stem cells (adult, foetal or embryonic) including basic stem cell biology and function.

Up-to-date research news and current international progress in the field posted to the NZBio/SCaRT web site will ensure ongoing awareness of scientists, the interested public and students from all stages of education. NZBio/SCaRT also aims to provide information on research opportunities for expatriate scientists returning to New Zealand, as well as a window to the world on what is happening within New Zealand, with the hope of encouraging international collaboration.

The NZBio/SCaRT Network is supported by Professor Sir Martin Evans, whom recently received the joint Nobel Prize in Medicine for his significant contribution to stem cell research.

The development of stem cell based regenerative therapies would not be possible without Sir Martin's ground breaking research. He was jointly responsible for the discovery of embryonic stem cells in the 1980s and contributed significantly to the development of stem cell gene targeting technology that has revolutionised research studying mammalian biology.

Sir Martin offers his congratulations on the formation of the NZBio/SCaRT Network and has agreed to act as International Advisor. As a key founder of the UK National Stem Cell Network, Sir Martin will encourage interaction, collaboration and potentially, cross posting.

The NZBio/SCaRT Network is not restricted to medical research, but spans cell-based therapies, stem cell biology (adult, foetal or embryonic), human therapies, animal therapeutic medicine, agricultural research and industrial applications.

The upcoming NZBio Conference 2008 (www.nzbio.org.nz/conference2008/) will also host meetings for the NZBio/SCaRT Network and provide a valuable opportunity for seminars on relevant topics.

Established with the support of the Ministry of Research, Science and Technology (MoRST), the NZBio/SCaRT Network owes its origins to a Stem Cell Networking meeting held by MoRST in July of 2006 in response to recommendations made in a report commissioned in 2005 on the state of stem cell research within New Zealand.

"I thank the groups whom have been instrumental in bringing this Network to fruition, and look forward to its growth and development in the coming years," NZBio/SCaRT Chairperson Dr Garry Udy says.

Visit the NZBio/SCaRT web site at: http://www.nzbio.org.nz/RegTechs/

ENDS

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