Sunday, October 11, 2009

Recent scientific breakthroughs-2008

“Cellular reprogramming”

Cellular reprogramming is a technique that allows stem cells to be created without the need to destroy embryos. It is a recent scientific breakthrough (year 2008) because-
This technique involves turning back the clock on adult tissue and "reprogramming" it with the properties of stem cells, could lead to new treatments for diseases including Parkinson's and diabetes.
The process allows for a potentially limitless numbers of "Induced Pluripotent Stem" (IPS) cells to be made to order from a sick patient's cells, meaning they do not risk rejection from the immune system when transplanted.
The technique does not require stem calls to be harvested from embryos, making it more acceptable to religious groups.

                                                                                                   Ref. Science Magazine