Safer Way Found to Make Stem Cells From Skin

Marks major step in stem-cell treatment of diseases
By Ambreen Ali,  Newser Staff
Posted Mar 2, 2009 5:05 AM CST
Safer Way Found to Make Stem Cells From Skin
The new technique uses a DNA thread instead of a virus to transport the cell-transforming genes.   (Shutter stock)

Scientists have found a safer way to make stem cells from ordinary human skin cells, a discovery that could render obsolete the debate on using embryonic cells for research on Parkinson's, diabetes, cancer and spinal injury treatments, Reuters reports. The new technique uses a DNA thread instead of a virus—which can cause mutations, even cancer—to inject the cell-reprogramming genes.
(More stem cell research stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X