Stem cells – gateway to 21st century medicine
Useful Sites
Stem cell channel (Australian Stem Cell Centre)
Clearly covers a range of issues in stem cell research using video. Fact sheets are also provided on topics including the ethics of stem cell research, types of stem cells and Australian research.
Stem cells in the spotlight (Genetic Science Learning Center, USA)
A clearly presented coverage of stem cells. 'What is a stem cell?' uses a humorous animation to introduce stem cells. Other topics include 'What are some different types of stem cells?'; 'Stem cell therapies: What is the recipe for success?' and 'Creating stem cells for research'.
National Institutes of Health, USA
Stem cell information: Stem cell basics
More in-depth information about stem cells, presented as a series of questions and answers.
Stem cell reports: Regenerative medicine
Explores cutting edge research involving stem cells.
Stem cells: The all round athletes (University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA)
An educational video that highlights stem cell research, challenges and applications.
Human stem cell research (Australian Academy of Science)
A report reviewing scientific and regulatory developments in human stem cell research during 2000-2001.
Molecular mechanisms of stem-cell identity and fate (Nature.com, UK)
A poster showing the origin of embryonic and adult stem cells.
Stem cells and the future of regenerative medicine (National Academies Press, USA)
A 2002 report summarises the findings of a workshop sponsored by the National Academies.
Australian Broadcasting Corporation (transcripts)
Stem cells special (Catalyst, 25 June 2009)
Includes a video on the science and use of stem cells as well as interviews with stem cell scientists.
Therapeutic cloning (Ask an Expert)
Provides answers to ten common questions about therapeutic cloning.
From my father's fridge (Australian Story, 25 April 2005)
The story of medical scientist, Professor Robert Tindle, who made a discovery that led to the use of stem cells to save thousands of lives around the world, including his own daughter.
End of embryo ban a boon for scientists (The Lab, 5 April 2005)
Australian scientists have a wider pool of human embryos to use for research from today with the lifting of a ban on using recently created embryos.
Why stem cells make for risky business (The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering)
Explains that there are many difficulties separating scientific hope from technical reality.
Ethics
Stem cell therapies: a tale of caution (Medical Journal of Australia, 4 August 2003)
Explains that much work remains to be done to turn stem cell therapy into a practical reality for degenerative diseases affecting the nervous system.
Page updated August 2009.