The latest good news on the stem cell front involves induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. A team of Japanese researchers say that paralyzed marmoset monkeys are walking again after iPS cells were injected into their spines. This appears to be the first time the treatment has succeeded in a primate subject and brings success in humans one step closer.

The procedure was carried out by researchers from Keio University and the Central Institute for Experimental Animals. About a month after the transplant the marmosets could both stand on their hind legs and grip things with their hands. Apparently the transplanted cells became nerve cells and regenerated the damaged spinal tissue. After three months, none of the marmosets had developed tumors. "The marmosets have dramatically recovered from their injuries to the extent that they can repeatedly jump," said researcher Hideyuki Okano.

There is a hitch. It can take 6 months or more to create iPS cells and recent accident victims need to be treated urgently. The Japanese researchers hope to set up an iPS cell bank which will make stem cells available on demand. ~ Mainichi Daily News, Dec 8