Some Biotech Biz News

Some Biotech Biz News

Just a bit of info that might be interesting to those following the slings and arrows of stem cell fortunes. Nothing applicable to research.

Theravitae is starting clinical trials in Thailand to use stem cells for the treatment of peripheral artery disease. Release.

The cord-banking company Cryo-Cell gained revenue but lost profit. Article.

Stem Cell Innovations will be distributing its cells in Europe. Release.

In Case You Were Wondering…

In Case You Were Wondering…

Wisconsin is getting private money too. UPI reported that a $50 million gift from two Universitry of Wisconsin alumni will be used to do research on embryonic stem cell lines that are not eligible for federal funding. The research will take place in a new research center for biotechnology and other sciences being developed at UW-Madison.

New York Gubernatorial Race Makes Stem Cells an Issue

New York Gubernatorial Race Makes Stem Cells an Issue

An AP story on Newsday reports that Democrat Eliot Spitzer, who is running for governor of New York, would seek a ballot initiative that allows the state to borrow $1 billion in bonds over 10 years for stem cell research. The initiative would need the approval of the governor and both state houses before it could go on a ballot for voters. The paper quoted a member of a conservative group as saying they would be opposed to it even if it did not include embryonic stem cell research because of the issue of New York state’s budget deficit.

I find it difficult to imagine stem cell research not being funded in New York one way or the other. In addition to the major medical institutions in New York which would benefit from the funding, the state won’t want to be outcompeted by Connecticut in the stem cell business.