Copyright 2003 The Times-Picayune Publishing Company
Times-Picayune (New Orleans, LA)
June 30, 2003 Monday
SECTION: METRO - EDITORIAL; Pg. 4
LENGTH: 184 words

Researchers all over the world are trying to unlock the potential of stem cells in treating Alzheimer's disease, spinal cord injuries and other ailments, and Tulane University will play a key role in helping them.

The National Institutes of Health awarded a $4.3 million grant to the Tulane Center for Gene Therapy that will enable it to set the standard for adult stem cells, which are produced in bone marrow.

Scientists who work with stem cells have been hindered by differences in batches of cells because they yield inconsistent results. "Unless everybody starts with the same material, it's difficult to say whether the results are comparable," one researcher said.

Using a single source for adult stem cells will avoid that problem by guaranteeing a standardized method of preparation. This grant will make the Tulane Center for Gene Therapy the preferred source.

That's quite an achievement for Tulane, which is poised to become a leader in this high-tech field.

It's also good news for people who hope that stem-cell research will provide the treatment needed to make them well.