A new network to coordinate and promote the UK's stem cell science effort has been launched today. The UK National Stem Cell Network (UKNSCN) aims to bring new coordination and coherence to national and regional stem cell research efforts. By improving the coordination of research across the various disciplines of UK stem cell research, and by acting as a focus and a voice for the UK stem cell research community, the UKNSCN aims to enhance basic research and to help speed its translation into clinical applications.
Malcolm Wicks, Minister for Science, will say at a launch event in London later today: "Stem cell research is an area which offers the potential to provide cures for some of our most debilitating diseases, which affect so many families. The UKNSCN offers a great chance for experts to work together, sharing knowledge and technology across the research community. I'm sure it will help us as we strive to maintain the UK's place as a world leader in this area of science."
In addition to coordinating the UK's numerous national and regional stem cell research initiatives, the UKNSCN will help to bring together and improve communication between the various sub-disciplines of stem cell science. The Network aims to become the focal point for communication about stem cell research to the public and industry. It also aims to become the national voice of stem cell science to policy makers and act as the main initial point of contact for overseas researchers and promoting the uptake and use of stem cells by scientific, business and medical communities.
Lord Naren Patel of Dunkeld is the first chair of the UKNSCN Steering Committee. He comments: "The UK is one of the world's leading nations for stem cell science but we have to ensure that as we move closer to real applications to help patients that all our scientists are pulling together in a coordinated effort. The UK National Stem Cell Network will give focus and a unified voice to st
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Contact: Matt Goode
ukpo@uknscn.org
1-793-413-299
Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council
18-Apr-2007