Month: August 2012

My ongoing Q&A with Celltex on their stem cell drug production methods

How does Texas stem cell clinic Celltex make their stem cell drug?  This is a very key question as the answers will help the stem cell field evaluate this drug’s potential safety and efficacy. I’m calling it a “drug” because the FDA called Celltex a “drug manufacturer” and by all past FDA precedent as well …

My ongoing Q&A with Celltex on their stem cell drug production methods Read More »

WSJ editorial on issue of stem cells as drugs misses the boat

Dr.-Scott-Gottlieb

Today there is an editorial piece in the WSJ about the recent court ruling giving the FDA authority to regulate stem cells grown in culture as drugs. As a stem cell scientist, I read this opinion piece with interest. Unfortunately it is behind a paywall, but I have outlined and discussed the key issues below. …

WSJ editorial on issue of stem cells as drugs misses the boat Read More »

Why a Romney victory would equal a big defeat for MS patients

What would a Romney victory mean for MS patients? Not good news I believe. As we’ve sort of, kinda gotten to know the Romney’s as potential President and First Lady, we’ve all learned some interesting things about them. I, for one, do not feel as though I know them very well still. Like many Americans, …

Why a Romney victory would equal a big defeat for MS patients Read More »

FDA crackdown on dubious stem cell clinics actually helps companies offering legitimate therapies

A while back, I did a post on the FDA audit report of Celltex and I think I made a mistake in the title of that post: Surprising FDA audit report of Celltex a blow to for-profit adult stem cell industry. What I meant was the dubious stem cell industry. The title I used was too vague …

FDA crackdown on dubious stem cell clinics actually helps companies offering legitimate therapies Read More »

Why ‘cure’ is a 4-letter word for those with cancer: thoughts from a survivor and researcher

Cancer is often referred to as the “Big C”. It’s a powerful word with many implications. Another “Big C” word is “Cure”. I believe “Cure” is also a loaded word. I am a cancer survivor and cancer scientist. You can read more about my experience here. Recently I got some more good news on the …

Why ‘cure’ is a 4-letter word for those with cancer: thoughts from a survivor and researcher Read More »

Considering a stem cell treatment? #1 thing to know is that for clinics it’s all about your money

Should I get a stem cell treatment? I regularly get contacted by patients considering dubious stem cell treatments, asking me that question. They want advice and have many questions. Most of them are seriously considering stem cell treatments because they have an illness that today’s “modern” medicine cannot help. Tens of millions of people are …

Considering a stem cell treatment? #1 thing to know is that for clinics it’s all about your money Read More »