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Science needs business backers

The Journal, Newcastle, 17 November 2006

Scientists in the North need the backing of businesses if leading stem cell research is to be turned into jobs and wealth for the region, it has been claimed.

Mike Nicholds, director of programme delivery at the Centre for Excellence in Life Sciences, said companies should stop focusing on the risks involved with pioneering medical research and look instead at the huge potential benefits.

Scientists working at Newcastle University and the city's Centre for Life have made world-leading discoveries in cloning and stem cell research.

But Mr Nicholds said the research would only deliver benefits for the nation's health and the region's economy if scientists got financial backing.

He said: "Stem cell research has the potential to revolutionise the world of medicine and healthcare, helping millions of people live longer and healthier lives.

"Right now, the industry needs financial support and commitment from the private sector, so that organisations like the UK Stem Cell Foundation can match this with funding from Government.

"I therefore appeal to businesses and entrepreneurs in North-East England to contact CELS, to find out how they can donate, or invest, in stem cell research.

"Their support will help our talented academics and scientists continue to break new ground and establish the region at the forefront of this exciting industry."

Researchers at the Centre for Life were the first in the world to clone a human embryo, a technique that could lead to treatments for diabetes, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

A Newcastle University scientist has grown liver tissue in the lab from stem cells.

But almost all of the funding for stem cell research at present has come from public funds.

David Macauley, chief executive of the UK Stem Cell Foundation said: "Therapeutic end points and good business are bedfellows. If we add value to one, we will add value to the other."