judith richards wrote:
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Nancy S.
> Date: Saturday, October 30, 1999 9:41 AM
> Subject: Article about new brain implant therapy
>
> >>Today's Chicago Tribune had a small article (datelined New York) which
> read as follows:
> NEW PARKINSON'S IMPLANT THERAPY BUOYS RESEARCHERS
> The cell product is called Spheramine. Have any of you heard anything
> about this?<<
>
> Company Press Release
snip Thanks Judith for the updated info.
Two other articles on Spheramine have been posted to the list by Judith
Richards.
Here is info from one -- company release -- 7/99
> Spheramine consists of human retinal pigmented epithelial cells (RPE
> cells), attached to microscopic beads, which enhance survival of the
> cells. RPE cells secrete dopamine and can therefore help replace the
> function of dopamine producing cells which are lost in Parkinson's
> disease through cell degeneration. RPE cells can also be produced in
> large numbers using cell culture production methods, offering the
> potential for a standardized, readily available supply for therapeutic
> use.
>
These folks look like they know what they are doing (at least in providing
lots of (not too controversial) cells for implantation in a million of us
(at least until "something better" comes along).
"Something better" -- what could that be? That is coming too...but,
that is probably the subject of another thread, if anyone wants to pick
it up...just our opinions.
Microscopic, "spherical", glass (or plastic) beads are used in a method
of tissue culture for growing large quantities of cells. The beads
and cells are tumbled slowly in a vat of an appropriate growth media,
which is held at an optimum and exact temperature, humidity,
oxygen and carbon dioxide levels. In this sort of situation, the strictest
sterile techniques must be used. This involves some very expensive
and high maintenance equipment, and environmental clean rooms.
"Manufacturing" the cells would be by individual order and
would have to be shipped FedEx or faster to ensure maximum
freshness and viability.
I wonder what the price tag will be.
Anybody buying stock in this company or Amgen?
............................................................................................
Ray Strand
mailto:[log in to unmask]
............................................................................................
...on the edge of the prairie abyss ......................
