http://topnews.us/content/245182-experts-claim-identify-genetic-changes-stem-cells

After concluding the findings of a latest research, a team of researchers at the University of Melbourne has claimed to acknowledge almost identical genetic changes in the stem cells when compared with that of human cancers.

During the study course, the expert analyzed more than 127 human embryonic stem cell lines. Afterwards, they persuaded 11 pluripotent stem cell lines and identified acquired strengthening of a specific region in chromosome 20, in around 20% of the cell lines. They were observed with potential to transform to any cell type in the body.

It has been reported that the five-year research that is expected to account around $6.7-million aims to develop treatments for an array of health complications such as sickle cell anemia as well as other life-threatening genetic disorders that occur in the blood.

"This project offers a possibility of curing both newborn and adult patients with their own cells that have been reprogrammed, corrected and converted to cells that will regenerate all of their blood cells", explained renowned UCSF scientist, Y. W. Kan, the lead research author.

Experts have expressed confidence that the findings will surely play a significant role to improve the conditions of people living with Common Genetic Diseases such as Sickle Cell Disease and Beta Thalassemia. Initially, it will be targeting the sickle-cell anemia and beta thalassemia , severe genetic conditions triggered by defective single gene, the gene for beta globin which is a part of hemoglobin. It affects the natural mechanism that incorporates iron to grasp the oxygen in lungs.

At present, any individual with this health condition needs to appear for a bone marrow or cord blood transplant, that too from compatible donors. In majority of cases people fail to avail most suited donors.

 TopNews United States, 14-12-2011