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October 15, 2005
Stem Cell Research and Diabetes
The Plureon Corporation has entered into an agreement with BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) in the field of diabetes research and development using Plureon's platform stem cell technology. This is great news for individuals with diabetes because it puts the resources of a huge company behind the novel and promising technology that has shown feasibility in a number of applications.
Plureon's stem cells are obtained from placental tissues that are usually discarded as medical waste after birth. These stem cells (“Plureon Stem Cells” or “PSCs”) have been differentiated into cells of all three germ layers, including bone, skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle, liver, nerve, fat, and pancreatic cells.
Unlike human embryonic stem, PSCs are not cancer-forming and do not involve the destruction of a human embryo. Since PSCs are obtained without harm to an embryo or fetus, they do not give rise to the ethical controversies which surround embryonic stem cells and cloning. For the same reason, research and use of PSCs have not been restricted by laws limiting the funding for research of embryonic stem cells.
Under the agreement, BD will sponsor Plureon's research efforts for up to three years and will be responsible for further development of the technology. Plureon retains rights to provide future manufacturing and medical education support to BD.
Mr. Hal Eason, Chairman, President and CEO of Plureon, said, "We are extremely pleased to have BD as our partner in the field of diabetes. BD is a world leader in diabetes care, with an excellent understanding of patients, researchers and practitioners. BD also has unique technology assets to accelerate the research and development of Plureon's technology."
More Information: Plureon
Posted by Diabetologica at October 15, 2005 12:17 PM