The University of Glasgow will share in a £20M cross-research council investment in stem cell research, announced today, 27 May 2004.

In one of the most exciting areas of science, this significant research investment promises to speed the development of new treatments and cures from the laboratory to the clinic. In total, 57 multidisciplinary research grants have been awarded as part of the new monies allocated via the 2002 Government Spending Review.

Stem cells have the unique ability, when appropriately stimulated, to renew themselves and give rise to other specialised cell types. This gives them the revolutionary potential to repair or replace tissues and organs damaged by disease or disability, offering new hope of treatments and cures for many common diseases including diabetes, cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. But a huge amount of research is needed to understand how stem cells work and how their potential could be harnessed.

Dr Sue Barnett of the University of Glasgow's Division of Clinical Neuroscience has been awarded over £300 000 to further her research into the use of stem cells for central nervous system (CNS) repair.

She said: "It is a great opportunity for us to continue our studies on transplant-mediated repair for spinal cord injury using the cells from the uniquely regenerative tissue of the olfactory system."

The strategic grants will ensure that the UK is at the forefront of the international research community working on stem cells, and is in a position to lead on the considerable health and economic implications the field promises for the future.

Media Relations Office (media@gla.ac.uk)

Research grants have been awarded by the Medical Research Council (MRC), the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)*, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Council for the Central Laboratory of the Research Council?s (CCLRC).

For more information please contact Mike Findlay in the University press office on 0141 330-8593 or email: m.findlay@admin.gla.ac.uk.

First published: 27 May 2004