UCL Institute of Child Health

Stem cells found in amniotic fluid can be transformed into a more versatile state similar to embryonic stem cells, according to a study published today in the journal Molecular Therapy. Scientists from the UCL Institute of Child Health and Imperial College London succeeded in reprogramming amniotic fluid cells without having to introduce extra genes. The findings raise the possibility that stem cells derived from donated amniotic fluid could be stored in banks and used for therapies and in research, providing a viable alternative to the limited embryonic stem cells currently available.

 abuse is outlined in a paper published in this month’s issue of the British Journal of General Practice. The method was developed based on a survey of 11 GP surgeries, led by the UCL Institute of Child Health (ICH) together with the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) and the University of Surrey.