Discussion Forums > Announcements

2-day conference in Cairo (organized by Prof El Beshlawy Ped.Hematologist)

<< < (3/6) > >>

Andy Battaglia:
Thanks for the link Manal.

http://www.thescientificworld.com/headeradmin/upload/2006.01.229.pdf


--- Quote ---In conclusion, the single-dose infusion of the autologous RSC into patients with beta-thalassemia major has resulted in a reduction in blood transfusion requirement and improved red blood cell morphology, hemoglobin content, and concentration. Furthermore, the biomarker of iron overload, serum ferritin, fell to a statistically significant level at 6 months postinfusion when compared to baseline. This novel regenerative approach towards ameliorating a genetic disorder, though most probably transitory, is profound and may enhance compliance of young thalassemic patients.
--- End quote ---

At this point I would call this a treatment and not a cure, but a safe treatment that supplies one with his or her own blood, eliminating transfusion reactions of all sorts. (I also think we should not underestimate the positive psychological effect this would have on patients who finally have their own blood running through their veins). It s very promising and I find it very exciting that this will be the subject of a presentation at the Egyptian conference. It is also very nice that the conference coincides with International Thalassemia Day.  :smiley

§ãJ¡Ð ساجد:
Hi,

From what I understand, I think it reverts the grown up Stem Cells back to pre mature stage where they produced HbF. This can be helpful to some extent till they grow back and get the nasty switch to HbA production. Remember the genes will remain the same bad ones which will fail after the HbF switch; but nevertheless it will definitely reduce the Transfusion requirement.

However I am still concerned about the quantity of Stem Cells required per session of treatment; after all we were babies when HbF was enough for us while now we need more of that. Will they extract all the stem cells from our bone marrow and convert it every-time ???

Well, I sure hope that it goes well. Anything beats the fortnightly transfusions and daily desferal even if they last 6 months or so.

Take care, Peace!

Manal:
Hi


--- Quote from: §ãJ¡Ð ساجد on April 18, 2007, 06:44:41 AM ---However I am still concerned about the quantity of Stem Cells required per session of treatment; after all we were babies when HbF was enough for us while now we need more of that. Will they extract all the stem cells from our bone marrow and convert it every-time ???

--- End quote ---

I thought this happenes once and for all.  I didn't know it was sessions!!!
Anyway, i think it will be good to email them to ask for details

Manal

Sharmin:
I agree that this procedure would be wonderful, even if it had to be done periodically - thereby reducing transfusion and chelation requirements.  However, extracting marrow every 6 months (or whatever time period is required) could also be painful and complicated I would imagine.  Hopefully we will all get more information about this soon. 

Vic, I also know a young man who has sickle cell, beta thal.  He is a handsome 14 year old and doing quite well. 


Sharmin

§ãJ¡Ð ساجد:
I remember that I once posted about TriStem since my cousin's collegue is one of the doctors on the panel with the Saudi Doctors.

According to my cousin, this technology failed in Pakistani Trials and patients died thus the experiment was banned. :(

I hope they have more success in Egypt.

Take care, Peace!

Navigation

[0] Message Index

[#] Next page

[*] Previous page