Geron and the University of Edinburgh are collaborating to conduct preclinical safety and efficacy studies with three cell types derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESC).
The cell types are hepatocytes for the treatment of liver failure and osteoblasts and chondrocytes for the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, including osteoarthritis, bone fractures and osteoporosis, said Geron officials. The studies, based at the University’s Centre for Regenerative Medicine, will be under the direction of John Iredale, Phil Newsome, Brendon Noble, and Hamish Simpson.
“We are continuing our research activity in the U.K. because we know there is a pool of knowledgeable and talented hESC scientists there,” commented David Greenwood, Geron’s executive vp and CFO. “We are now sponsoring six U.K.-based hESC R&D programs. Moreover, in addition to the scientific talent and the general receptivity in the U.K. for hESC technology, there is funding support.”
