Written question asked by Lord Alton of Liverpool (Crossbench), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Truscott (Labour) on Tuesday, 26 June 2007.

Embryology

Question: asked Her Majesty's Government:Further to the Written Answer by Lord Hunt of Kings Heath on 8 June (WA 223), whether they will explain how research can be both embryonic and adult and at the same time foetal and adult.

Answer: The Medical Research Council (MRC) is the main agency through which the UK Government support medical and clinical research. Researchers do not always focus on one type of stem cell and may involve several other types. There are valid reasons; for example: the MRC-funded researchers at the University of Edinburgh are performing comparative evaluation of stem cells embryonic, foetal and adult origin, to define which stages of cell developments are best suited for particular therapeutic applications; and the University College London (UCL) researchers are studying both embryonic and adult stem cells to understand how stem cells give rise to specialised cells during normal embryonic development and in adults. This is essential for development of potential stem cells for treating neurodegenerative and other diseases.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 4312; 693 c128WA
Session: 2006-07
Related items: Health: Stem Cell Therapy
Friday, 8 June 2007
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects: Research Stem cells
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk