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Hi All - Debra raises some interesting questions about the current state of research in pig cell therapy for Parkinson's Disease. The first question is whether or not clinical trials are continuing. To the best of my knowledge no more patients will be offered a chance at this experimental procedure. The project, conducted by Genzyme/Diacrin, appears to be on (at least) a temporary hold. The basic reason is that Phase 2 studies gave "inconclusive" results. In this controlled program there was little discernible difference between the 2 groups of subjects. The 1st group receiving the cells while the 2nd received a placebo procedure. As you can imagine these findings were a huge disappointment to the developers and financiers, not to mention those of us who suffer from PD and other neurological conditions. On the other hand some of the Phase 1 patients, including yours truly, had documented, scientifically demonstrable improvements. What is interesting is that Phase 1 trials were designed mostly to test the safety (but not the efficacy) of the surgery. The fact that some of the participants obtained benefit was considered to be a nice bonus. In that first group of 12 the younger people seemed to have had the best response. At the 24 month post operative point the scientists measured a 50% improvement in my symptoms, based on standardized Parkinson's rating scales. Those who were 60+ saw little or no change. I was 47 at the time of the surgery. I am now 54. My diagnosis came at age 32. I do not know the long-term results of the others in this research project. The company has not encouraged communication between us. Following their lead I have chosen not to seek out others in the group. It is very important to note that I am not "cured." I still have PD and I still take the medications for it. But of equal significance is that this operation offers the potential for, at a minimum, great symptomatic relief. I consider myself to be very fortunate to have been a part of this exciting medical research. To learn more about my experiences with this project go to URL: <A HREF="http://www.geocities.com/jimcfinn/index.html"> http://www.geocities.com/jimcfinn/index.html</A> As always feel free to write directly if you have any questions. Jim Finn ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn