For Immediate Release
July 17, 2007

PREMIER MCGUINTY CONGRATULATES MCMASTER RESEARCHERS

Discovery Critical For Future Stem Cell Therapies

TORONTO –A team of researchers at McMaster University led by Dr. Mick Bhatia are to be congratulated for their breakthrough stem cell discovery, Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty said today.

“The promise of embryonic stem cell research to regenerate damaged human tissue for diseases such as Parkinson’s has taken a major step forward,” said Premier McGuinty.  “As a science graduate from McMaster, I take special pride in recognizing the team for their contributions to this significant area of health-care research.  I want to thank everyone involved for this discovery, and to wish them continued success.”

The researchers found that human embryonic stem cells have the unique ability to generate niche cells.  By manipulating these niche cells, it may be possible to modify their behaviour.

Scientists hope stem cells might one day be used to treat a host of diseases and ailments.  For instance, they could regenerate the damaged tissue of paraplegics, switch off cancerous tumour growths and introduce insulin-producing cells into a diabetic pancreas.

“Since the discovery of the existence of stem cells more than 40 years ago by Ontario scientists, researchers in this province have shown what innovative thinking can achieve in the field of medical science,” said Premier McGuinty.  “By continuing to support their work, we are helping Ontario families lead healthier lives.”

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