StemCell Therapy

It seems like my dog Rios tail is always wagginghes a goofy Labrador retriever mix who sometimes even wags in his sleep. So one day when he was a few years old, I was shocked to discover his tail hanging limp like a wet noodle. He wouldnt even wag for a treat.

Panicked, my husband and I rushed Rio to his veterinarian, who asked if wed noticed him injure his tail. We hadnt. Wed been camping all weekend by a lake, where Rio spent a lot of time swimming. Then we took a long hike and he wagged his tail the entire time, sometimes so enthusiastically that I started taking video because it was so charming.

Our veterinarians diagnosis: limber tail syndrome. Basically, Rios tail-wagging muscles were overworked and had become very painful. However, we were relieved to learn limber tail isnt a permanent condition. With rest and anti-inflammatory medication, Rio was back to his happy, wagging self in a couple of days.

Joe Spoo, DVM, DACVSMR, co-owner of AAHA-accredited Best Care Pet Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and author of the GunDogDoc blog, said he tends to see an influx of patients with limber tail at the start of hunting season, when the weather starts to warm up and dogs spend more time recreating outside.

The tail either hangs limp from the base, or juts out horizontally for a few inches and then droops.

The first time anybody sees limber tail, they panic and think their dog broke their tail, he says. The tail just dangles.

Limber tailalso called swimmers tail, Lab tail, cold water tail, or pointer tailis especially common in sporting breeds, but can affect any breed with a long, active tail, Spoo says.

We can see the condition in any dog that goes from not using his tail to overusing it, whether it be swimming or playing or just being happy, he says.

While limber tail tends to occur in the first three years of a dogs life, it probably has less to do with age than the dogs muscles not yet being trained to handle a typical workload, Spoo says. Often, a dog only experiences limber tail once, but there are exceptions.

I used to say it was a one and done [condition], but well see it in a few dogs where it repeats every time the new workload starts, Spoo says. I do have a couple Labs that seem to have it once a year at the start of hunting season.

Mild cases of limber tail will resolve with rest in less than 24 hours. For more severe cases, Spoo prescribes an anti-inflammatory medication to help with the pain and recommends restricted activity to rest the tail. Dogs typically recover in two to three days.

Diagnosing limber tail is fairly easy. Other causes of a non-wagging tail, such as trauma, can be ruled out if the tail hasnt been stepped on, pulled, slammed in a door, or otherwise injured, while more serious causes, like neurological issues, would be accompanied by other signs, Spoo says.

If you suspect your dog has limber tail, do not treat him at home with over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory medications for humans like aspirin or ibuprofen. Dogs do not have the same enzymes humans do and cannot break down these medications effectively, Spoo says.

Dont think, Im going to make a self-diagnosis and I have an anti-inflammatory for me, so Ill just give it to my dog. [You] can end up in a way worse situation than a day or two of a painful tail, he says. Consult your veterinarian.

Freelance journalist Jen Reeder was moved to tears when she realized her dog developed limber tail syndrome from wagging too much on the first family camping trip after her husbands kidney transplant.

iStock.com/George Clerk

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When the wagging stops: Is it limber tail? | AAHA

Providing regular health care for your cat is essential for a longer, healthier, and more comfortable life for her. Many cats, however, dont get the regular veterinary care they need due to the amount of stress caused by simply trying to get them to the veterinary hospital. Here, a few tips to make the trip to your veterinarian less stressfulfor both your cat and you.

Happy carrier, happy catTrips to the veterinarian should not be the only time your furry friend encounters his carrier. You want your cat to associate his carrier with positive experiences. Have him enter the carrier on a regular basis so hes more comfortable in it. Leave the carrier in a room where your cat spends lots of time and give him time to become familiar with it. Placing soft bedding or clothing inside may help him feel more secure.

Getting her inTreats, toys, or catnip placed inside her carrier will help to encourage your cat to enter. It could take days, or maybe even weeks, for her to begin to trust her carrier, so be patient. Always reward your cat for the behavior you want, so if she is sitting near or exploring the carrier, give her a treat.

If your cat is not yet used to the carrier, but needs to go to the veterinarian right away, try putting her in a small room that has few hiding places with the carrier. Put a special treat in the carrier to encourage her to enter. If the treat doesnt entice her and your carrier has an opening at the top, try to gently cradle her and lower her into the carrier. If your carrier allows, remove the top half, place your cat into the lower half, and calmly replace the top.

Picking the right carrierBefore deciding which of the many cat carriers on the market is best for your cat, consider your cats size, how well he tolerates handling, and which carrier is easiest to transport. It should be safe, secure, sturdy, and easy for you to carry. Some of the best carriers are hard-sided and open from both the front and the top. An easily removable top allows a cat who is fearful, anxious, or in pain to stay in the bottom half for exams by the veterinarian.

En routeYour furry friend will be safest in the car if you secure her carrier using a seat belt. If she seems anxious, it sometimes helps to cover, either partially or completely, her carrier with a blanket or towel, although some cats would prefer to be able to see whats going on outside of the carrier. There are also products that you can spray into her carrier to help with anxiety.

Need other ideas?If your cat is particularly stressed about getting into his carrier, ask your veterinarian for more ideas on how to make your cats travel away from home, whether its to see the veterinarian or not, more calm and pleasant for everyone. For more information, visit catvets.com.

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Kitties and carriers: Getting your cat to the vet with ...

The general practitioner youve been seeing for 15 years suddenly announces his retirement. You panic. Who are you going to rely on when youre sick? Hes the only one in the world who knows your medical history and the fact that lollipops can, in fact, calm your nerves!

Logically, however, you know there are steps you can take to find another great doctor. Recommendations from friends, trial visits, and online sources that provide information about a potential practitioners qualifications and experience level will certainly help you come to a sound decision.

When seeking a new veterinarian, your pet deserves the same considerations. While the task may seem daunting, taking the time to find the right veterinarian will ensure the safety, health, and happiness of your beloved pet for years to come.

Consider the following before you commit to a new veterinary practice:

AAHA accreditation: The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), the accrediting body for companion animal hospitals in the U.S. and Canada, regularly evaluates veterinary practices on approximately 900 standards of veterinary excellence, which means they are recognized among the finest in the industry. Use AAHAs hospital locator to find an accredited practice near you.

Communication: Understanding what style of communication you prefer and asking what you can expect will help you decide if a veterinarian (or practice) is a good fit for you, says Rose Barr, DVM, of AAHA-accredited Tender Touch Animal Hospital in Denver, Colo.

One vs. many: Do you prefer to speak with only one person about your pets health, or do you prefer a practice that offers several medical experts?

Proximity and hours: How much time do you have for a veterinary visit? Take travel time into account as well as the visit itself. Do you need to get there quickly and then hurry back home or to the office after your visit? Is it easy for you to get there? Does the practice offer evening and weekend hours? Knowing how much time you have to commit to a visit will help you in choosing which practice is best for you.

Services offered: Services play a large role in choosing a veterinary hospital. Does your new practice provide what you need and want? You will find with AAHA-accredited hospitals, they are able to take X-rays and run in-house laboratory samples that will lead to getting answers faster, Barr says.

Emergency care: What do you do when theres a medical emergency and your veterinary office is closed? Plan ahead! Barr says. Many of the 24-hour care facilities are AAHA-accredited. The beauty of these hospitals is that they often have specialists available should the need arise for advanced care. Be sure to know where the closest emergency care facility is and know how to get there ahead of time.

Remember that even the best research cannot replace an in-person visit. Stop by prospective practices and ask for a tour before you decide.

You have options, Barr says. If you arent getting the service you expect, its OK to try something new.

Katie Meyer is an animal advocate who enjoys fostering dogs for PawsCo, a nonprofit rescue in Denver, Colorado.

iStock.com/Daniela Jovanovska-Hristovska

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Six things to consider when choosing a new veterinarian | AAHA

Can you imagine going a day without brushing your teeth? Of course not! Yet many people dont brush their pets teeth, so most dogs and cats have evidence of dental disease by the time they are just 3 years old.

A good home dental care regimen can help your pet stay healthy and even save you money by prolonging the need for dental cleanings or tooth extractions, according to Morgen Deramus, DVM, associate veterinarian at AAHA-accredited Advanced Animal Care of Colorado in Fort Collins, Colo.

Training when theyre young and making sure youre doing it in a way that creates a positive association is the most beneficial for them, she says. With dogs, I usually recommend approaching it like any other traininglots of positive reinforcement, going slowly and stopping before that puppy gets aggravated or irritated with the process.

Deramus suggests starting with special pet toothpaste flavored like beef or poultry. Then:

Deramus says cats can be trained in a similar way, though large toothbrushes are too big for their mouths. Instead, use an infant finger brush or a gauze square to brush the teeth in a circular motion, just as you would brush your own teeth. If you have issues with your cat moving too much while brushing, you can wrap him in a towel and hold him close to you.

Beware of nonanesthetic dentistry

Some groomers, pet stores, and even nonaccredited veterinary hospitals offer nonanesthetic pet dentals, but buyer beware: This procedure is stressful for pets, does not treat any issues beneath the gum line, and can be potentially dangerous.

Be very cautious of people who offer those anesthetic-free dental cleanings, Deramus says. [Nonanesthetic dentistry] is not a safe way to clean teeth. It can often lead to secondary issues when the dog is awake and moving such as slicing gums and breaking teeth. It creates huge divots in the enamel, and doesnt protect [the pets] airways, either.

AAHA issued a mandatory dental standard in 2013 that all dental procedures in AAHA-accredited practices must be performed under anesthesia with patients intubated, and that cleaning a companion animal's teeth without general anesthesia is considered unacceptable and below the standard of care. The position was endorsed by the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC).

Cats can be trained just like dogs if you put your mind to it, Deramus says.

If, despite your best efforts, tooth brushing is still impossible and has begun to affect your bond with your pet, Deramus says many other products, like food and water additives or dental chews, can help. Just be sure to look for the Seal of Acceptance from the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) when shopping for them, she says.

Indications of dental disease include bad breath, discoloration of the teeth, and redness of the gums. AAHAs dental care guidelines recommend annual professional, anesthetized cleaningsbeginning at 1 year for cats and small dogs, and 2 years for large breedsto prevent these and other oral health problems.

According to Deramus, this includes the transfer of bacteria and infection into the bloodstream, which can affect your pets overall well-being.

When this happens, the blood then goes into the major organs of the body and can cause major damage there, she says.

Finally, abscessed teeth and other dental issues should be taken care ofor better yet, avoidedbecause they are painful. Since cats tend to be pretty silent in their disease, Deramus has seen seemingly standoffish animals who would hide from people become happy and outgoing after dental treatment.

It can really unmask the true nature of that animal when you take care of things that cause chronic pain, she says. And what do we want for our animals? More than anything else, I think we want quality of life.

Award-winning pet writer Jen Reeder brushes her dogs teeth with poultry-flavored toothpaste. He will also cooperate for vanilla.

iStock.com/karelnoppe

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How to brush your pets teeth (and why you should) | AAHA

Coffee with a calico? Tea with a tabby? Or just want to unwind with a feline?

Enter the cat caf.

Its an idea that apparently started in Asia and then spread to Europe. Now its come to the United States as an engaging way to find permanent homes for cats and kittens.

The first cat caf in the U.S. was a temporary one in New Yorka four-day collaboration that took place last April between North Shore Animal League America and Purina ONE. Cat lovers had the chance to sip complimentary "cat'achinos" while visiting with 16 cats up for adoption. Fourteen of the cats were adopted by the end of the event with the remaining 2 finding homes within the month.

Now permanent cat cafs are opening, working with health code laws by keeping food preparation areas separate from the cat areas.

The first permanent U.S. cat caf, Cat Town Caf at 2869 Broadway in Oakland, Calif., opened in October. Its an expansion of the work of Cat Town, a nonprofit cat rescue, to find homes for cats being held by Oakland Animal Services.

Adam Myatt, known as the Cat Man of West Oakland because of his feral cat calendars, opened the caf with Cat Town founder and friend Ann Dunn. Split into a caf and cat zone to work with health code laws regarding food preparation areas, Cat Town Caf allows 14 people every hour to observe and play with cats.

The limit on the number of people, says Myatt, is to prevent stressing the cats who might face up to 154 people per day, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., five days per week.

Near the end of the first month of operation, 30 cats had already found new homes, says Myatt.

[Cat Town Caf is] doing pretty well, he noted. Its been a process to see which cats are going to do best in this space. A cat caf is not for every cat. It has to be one that can handle meeting hundreds of people.

The hardest part, he says, is curbing peoples expectations. Cat activity varies, as cat lovers know, he says.

Cats sleep a lot and dont always want to play, so some people might be disappointed. But if visitors really want to interact, we recommend that they reserve a time in the morning when the cats are super playful, ready to go crazy, or around 5 or 6 p.m. when they start getting active again.

We dont have Wi-Fi or a ton of seating. Most of the space is the cat zone. Its not a caf you would try to work in or bring your laptop to. But we do have great coffee and bagels and sell T-shirts, and were really trying to make this a super-fun, magical space for cats.

In San Francisco, cat enthusiasts Courtney Hatt, David Braginksy, and Benjamin Stingle are getting ready to open KitTea, part gourmet tea house, part cat and human oasis, at 96 Gough Street in late March.

Its been a lot of work after starting with a complete blank slate. There was a lot of construction and customization to cover, as well as permits, the cost of San Francisco, very busy contractors in a fast-growing city, and trying to dot all of the i's and cross all of the t's, says Hatt.

How will it work when it opens?

You will enter KitTea through a vestibule that keeps the tea and cats separate and be greeted by a friendly host/hostess who will take your order. From there you will walk into the cat/human oasis and be alerted once your tea and/or snacks are available for pickup at the hostess desk.Due to strict health regulations, no employee of KitTea can serve you tea or snacks in the space due to the risk of cross contamination in the two spaces.

If you choose to only come to KitTea for the tea, says Hatt, you can take a seat in our tea space. There you can view all the happenings in the cat area through a glass partition while you relax and learn about Japanese tea service.

KitTea is working with Give Me Shelter Cat Rescue, providing a space where the rescue can house its adoptable cats and thus make more room for rescuing other cats in California and across the U.S.

How do these operations help adopt cats?

At shelters, Hatt explains, cats who are scared will often come off as aggressive, aloof, and, in general, completely different from who they really are.

In these cafs, she says, the cats are going to be far less stressed than they would be in a shelter situation.

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I'll take my coffee with a cat | AAHA

When exploring medical privacy issues, it's very useful to have an overview of the laws that affect control and privacy of medical information. We encourage you to read our legal overview.

GINA, HIPAA, and genetic information privacy

Genetics is the new frontier of medicine and genomic data is the raw material of some of the most advanced medical research now underway. Genetic testing is the current paradigm for diagnosis and treatment of many diseases. Its likely that within 10 years genetic tests for disease markerssuch as presymptomatic testing for the risk of developing adult-onset cancers, Alzheimer's, or chronic diseasesand possibly even whole-genome sequencing will be as routine as urinalysis is now. And the greater availability of population-wide genetic information is happening alongside its digitization in a given individual's electronic health record (EHR).

Genetic data can be obtained from cells we routinely shed, is easily shared, and is in high demand for cutting-edge medical research. Genetic data might be used to develop cures for cancer, paranoid schizophrenia, common tooth decay, and far moremultifarious areas of research that can seem irresistibly compelling. So what can protect the privacy of genetic data in such a world?

Not much, actually. Some laws limit how the information can be used, but none truly protects privacy. And that may not even be possible, because genetic information is unique to every individual. It cannot be de-identified; even if separated from obvious identifiers like name and Social Security number, it is still forever linked to only one person in the world. The de-identification checklist safe harbor from the Healthinsurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) doesnt include genetic information.

Genetic nondiscrimination laws

The federal laws that deal with genetic information are GINA (the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008) and, more recently, HIPAA. GINA is essentially an anti-discrimination law that has nothing to do with privacy. It prevents group health and Medicare supplemental plansbut not life, disability, or long-term care plansfrom using genetic information to discriminate against you when it comes to insurance.

Title II of GINA prohibits the use of genetic information to discriminate in employment decisions, such as hiring, firing, and promoting. It also restricts employers from asking for or buying genetic information. GINA does not apply, however, unless the employer has more than 15 employees. An Executive Order that accompanies GINA prohibits federal government agencies from obtaining genetic information from employees or job applicants and from using it in hiring and promotion decisions.

The federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) investigates and enforces GINA claims. One EEOC lawsuit filed in 2013 alleged that a company violated GINA by requesting and requiring job applicants to indicate whether or not they had a family medical history for a variety of diseases and disorders as part of its post-offer, pre-employment medical examination; it was settled for $50,000. A week later the EEOC filed a similar lawsuit against the Founders Pavillion nursing and rehab center in Corning, NY. As of late July 2013, the EEOC "is sifting through about 170 claims filed by workers, applicants and former employees who say companies unlawfully asked for genetic information or used it to discriminate."

In 2013, the HIPAA Omnibus Rule amended HIPAA regulations to include genetic information in the definition of Protected Health Information (PHI). It also prevents use of the data in underwriting for all other types of health insurance plans, but still not for life, disability, or long-term care insurance. Excluding long-term care insurance guarantees that anyone with a tested genetic predisposition to Alzheimers, for example, will be uninsurable. According to the definition, genetic information includes your genetic tests and a family members, your or a family members fetus or embryo, and evidence of a disease in a family member. It does not include your age or gender.

Californias broader genetic anti-discrimination law, known as CalGINA, not only prohibits genetic discrimination in employment (GINAs scope), but also in housing, provision of emergency services, education, mortgage lending and elections. CalGINA amends the Unruh Civil Rights Act to add genetic information to the list of Californians civil rights that entitle them "to full and equal accommodations, advantages, facilities, privileges, or services in all business establishments of every kind whatsoever." The Government Code contains the employment and other membership provisions of the FEHA. Other sections can be found on the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing website.

One problem with GINA that the Omnibus Rule perpetuatesand CalGINA does not address eitheris that GINA is based on a genetics framework that is more than 20 years old. GINA only prohibits discrimination based on genetic information about someone who has not yet been diagnosed with a disease; that is, the disease is not yet "manifest." Today there are many tests for genetic markers that mayor may notbe precursors of a disease and also may mean that you could benefit from preventive treatment. If the presence of genetic markers is considered a manifestation of a disease, then neither GINA nor HIPAA applies to the information.

Protecting genetic information privacy

With genetic dataor any personal health information (PHI)its important to remember that HIPAA only applies to an organization if it is either a "covered entity" or the business associate (BA) of one. Many non-covered entities collect genetic information, such as online genetic testing companies like 23andMe and genealogy websites like Ancestry.com. At the moment, such businesses are only self-regulated, although the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently told 23andMe that its over-the-counter saliva collection kit and Personal Genome Service (PGS) was being marketed in violation of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. As the FDA put it: "if the BRCA-related risk assessment for breast or ovarian cancer reports a false positive, it could lead a patient to undergo prophylactic surgery, chemoprevention, intensive screening, or other morbidity-inducing actions, while a false negative could result in a failure to recognize an actual risk that may exist."

Obviously, existing laws that deal with genetic information fall short in many ways. One corrective approach to the limits of GINA and HIPAAand not only where genetic information is concernedwould be to apply protections to the data itself, rather than making them dependent on who has the data. This dispenses with the patchwork created by "covered entities."

Some major unaddressed issues concerning genetic information privacy

As accessing and recording genetic information progresses, it raises some serious issues.

A recurring issue in medical privacy is lawful uses of information based on overly broad compelled authorizations, such as in states where individuals must sign a release for substantially all of their health records as a condition of employment or when applying for life insurance or government benefits. In the context of widespread use of EHRsinteroperable, comprehensive, lifetime individual health records that vastly increase the amount of data that can be disclosedthese kinds of releases create significant privacy risks for all health information, including genetic information.

Newborn screening is another problem that arises with EHRs and genetic data. Tests done at birth vary from state to state, but all states must screen for at least 21 disorders by law, and some states test for 30 or more. Currently, tests are limited to conditions for which childhood medical intervention is possible and may be beneficial.

What if that practice changes to includeor mandatetests for adult-onset disorders that cannot be treated in childhoodor for which there is no known treatment, such as ALS, Huntingtons disease, or Alzheimers? The privacy implications of starting a lifetime EHR that includes information about genetic diseases are enormous, and become even greater if the record comes to include evidence of a genetic propensity toward future, as yet incurable, diseases (not to mention the emotional impact on those designated at birth to succumb to a tragic and incurable disease). A great deal of thoughtful analysis and decisionmaking is required to protect this dataand the individuals connected to itfrom exposure, while at the same time not excluding this data from important research.

There is the growing practice, at all levels of law enforcement, of collecting genetic data from suspects when they are arrested and storing the information in a database for later reference. The Supreme Court held in Maryland v. King that such DNA collection, while subject to the Fourth Amendment (using a buccal swab on the inner tissues of a persons cheek in order to obtain DNA samples is a search), does not require a warrant: when there is already probable cause for a valid arrest for a serious offense, collecting a DNA sample is analogous to taking fingerprints or a photo. (See EFFs blog posts on Maryland v. King.)

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, en banc, recently upheld a controversial California law that requires people who are arrested for a felony to provide DNA samples that will be stored in a criminal database accessible to local, state, national, and international law enforcement agencies. The requirement is not limited to serious or violent offenses. The plaintiff in the case, Haskell v. Harris, was arrested for protesting the Iraq war, but was never charged or convicted. The Court compared the California law to the Maryland law upheld by the Supreme Court and found no difference and no Fourth Amendment violation.

The United States has the worlds largest database of DNA profiles. As of November 2013, the FBIs National DNA Index (NDIS) contains over 12 million profiles, and it is still growing. These are primarily from criminals and criminal suspects, but the database also includes parolees, probationers, and people who were simply arrested. It is bound to grow as more states expand the categories of people compelled to give DNA samples for law enforcement. Law enforcement is also known to collect DNA surreptitiously from suspects cigarette butts and coffee cups.

Responding to the difficulty in making an exact DNA match from crime scene evidence, in 2008 California became the first state to authorize familial or kinship matches, which are by design less precise.

Another area of concern in law enforcement DNA collection is the current trend for predictive modeling or behavioral genomics. It raises questions about the potential use of DNA databases to reveal the genetic tendencies of individuals toward certain types of criminal behavior, like violence. Could this lead to practices like preventive detention or protective custody of individuals believed to have a genetic disposition toward crime or anti-social behavior?

Finally, there is a complex ethical issue around the consent for disclosure of genetic information or biospecimens that contain DNA, for research purposes and otherwise. Were used to thinking of consent as individual, which makes sense when the health information is mainly about that person. Genetic information is different: analysis of an individuals DNA is highly informative about his or her offspring, siblings, and parents. The Supreme Court of Iceland, for instance, found in 2003 that a woman had a right to opt out of her fathers genetic information being retained in Icelands national DNA database. Genetic information also bears on demographic categorization, as many genetic predispositions toward specific diseases or conditions are strongly associated with specific ethnic or racial groups. Is individual consent appropriate when DNA analysis can reveal significant information about other peopleas we now see for familial DNA searches?

For a critique of existing genetic information non-discrimination laws, see Are Genetic Discrimination Laws Up to the Task?, an interview with Mark Rothstein in Medscape Today. Rothstein holds the Herbert F. Boehl Chair of Law and Medicine and is the Founding Director of theInstitute for Bioethics, Health Policy and Law at the University of Louisville School of Medicine.

Read more:
Genetic Information Privacy | Electronic Frontier Foundation

Regenerative medicine seeks to replace tissue or organs that have been damaged by disease, trauma, or congenital issues, vs. the current clinical strategy that focuses primarily on treating the symptoms. The tools used to realize these outcomes are tissue engineering, cellular therapies, and medical devices and artificial organs.

Combinations of these approaches can amplify our natural healing process in the places it is needed most, or take over the function of a permanently damaged organ. Regenerative medicine is a relatively new field that brings together experts in biology, chemistry, computer science, engineering, genetics, medicine, robotics, and other fields to find solutions to some of the most challenging medical problems faced by humankind.

When injured or invaded by disease, our bodies have the innate response to heal and defend. What if it was possible to harness the power of the body to heal and then accelerate it in a clinically relevant way? What if we could help the body heal better?

The promising field of Regenerative Medicine is working to restore structure and function of damaged tissues and organs. It is also working to create solutions for organs that become permanently damaged. The goal of this approach is to find a way to cure previously untreatable injuries and diseases.

1. Tissue Engineering and BiomaterialsTissue engineering is a strategy where biologically compatible scaffolds are implanted in the body at the site where new tissue is to be formed. If the scaffold is in the geometric shape of the tissue that needs to be generated, and the scaffold attracts cells the outcome is new tissue in the shape desired. If the newly forming tissue is subjected to exercise as it forms, the outcome can be new functional engineered issue.

Millions of patients have been treated with some form of tissue engineered devices, yet the field is in its infancy. The primary success stories have been with soft tissue regeneration. To learn more about some of the promising studies and clinical trials involving tissue engineering,click here.

2. Cellular TherapiesMany millions of adult stem cells are found in every human. Our body uses stem cells as one way of repairing itself. Studies have illustrated that if adult stem cells are harvested and then injected at the site of diseased or damaged tissue, reconstruction of the tissue is feasible under the right circumstances. These cells can be collected from blood, fat, bone marrow, dental pulp, skeletal muscle and other sources. Cord blood provides yet another source of adult stem cells. Scientists and clinicians are developing and refining their ability to prepare harvested stem cells to be injected into patients to repair diseased or damaged tissue.

To learn more about some of the promising studies and clinical trials involving cellular therapies,click here.

3. Medical Devices and Artificial OrgansIn cases where an organ fails, the predominant clinical strategy is to transplant a replacement organ from a donor. The principal challenges are the availability of donor organs, and the requirement that the donor take immunosuppression drugswhich have side effects. Further, there are many instances where the time to find a suitable donor organ requires an interim strategy to support or supplement the function of the failing organ until a transplantable organ is found. Using circulatory support as an example, there are technologies in various stages of maturity, initially using ventricular assist devices (VADs) as a bridge to a heart transplant, and now there are VADs that are used for long-term circulatory support (destination therapy).

Scientists and clinicians around the world are developing and evaluation devices to supplement or to replace the function of many organ systems including the heart, lung, liver and kidney.

To learn more about some of the promising studies and clinical trials involving medical devices and artificial organs, click here.

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What Is Regenerative Medicine? | Regenerative Medicine at the ...

CONST RICA CONTACTORS and DEVELOPERSConstructing and developing buildings can be an intimidating and frustrating process in Costa Rica. Rven when you are in your own culture you sorta know what to expect and plan for. In a foreign country, the same processes can be downright crazy.

In a new setting, you have to learn how to go about doing things. Materials are more expensive, but labor is lower, and don't expect anything fast-tracked. Time is considered, "whenever it gets done." Weather, plays an important roll. For example, I have a friend who has been trying to put a road into his property for a year now, and has been delay by an unusually raining season (2007-2008); mud slides have been a major problem, forcing his budget to triple for the road. Invest some time in 'learning how the system works" to protect your investment by who is legally and ethically responsible for the construction. Research your building team by getting references. It helps if you have an Costa Rica Architect and Engineer who knows the ins and outs of the local building department laws.

It is not difficult to find contractors capable of working up to American standards. Remember, you pay for what you get. Low bid on some local builders have the whenever habit of missing deadlines, running over budget, producing shabby work and refusing to take responsibility for their mistakes that end up costing you more.

Costa Rica is also a member of the World Green Building Council for those that want green building.

See related articles - Building Green in Costa Rica and Eco-friendly Home in Costa Rica

Excerpt from:
Contractors & Developers in Costa Rica. Home Commercial ...

Integrative Health specialists at UW Health in Madison, Wisconsin, offer services that draw from both conventional and complementary medicine. Dedicated to helping you achieve your highest potential for wellness, we have a healing-oriented philosophy that focuses on less invasive therapies to help remove barriers that may be blocking the body's ability to heal. For more information about our programs, call (608) 262-WELL (262-9355).

UW Health Integrative Health specialists provide medical consultations for individuals who want recommendations for disease prevention, wellness or life enhancement, and individuals with complex medical conditions.

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Mindfulness meditation is the art of paying attention, of listening to your heart. Rather than withdrawing from the world, mindfulness can help you enjoy it more fully, effectively and peacefully.

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We have a healing-oriented philosophy that focuses on less invasive therapies to help remove barriers that may be blocking the body's ability to heal, recognizing each individual's unique balance of mind, body and spirit.

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Whether you are trying new ways to enjoy physical activity, restore balance to your life, manage stress better or eat healthier, the UW Health Center for Wellness at UW Health at The American Center can support you on your journey to better health.

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Integrative Medicine | UW Health | Madison, WI

Fact Checked

This Dr. Axe content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure factually accurate information.

With strict editorial sourcing guidelines, we only link to academic research institutions, reputable media sites and, when research is available, medically peer-reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) are clickable links to these studies.

The information in our articles is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.

This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by our trained editorial staff. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) are clickable links to medically peer-reviewed studies.

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By Annie Price, CHHC

June 26, 2017

Did you know theres a new typeofdentalfilling that actually triggers your teeth to repair and regenerate themselves? Its true. Researchers from Harvard University and the University of Nottingham recently developed a procedureknown asstem cell fillings. In essence, its aregenerative dental filling that prompts the stem cells inside a personsown tooth to heal itself. This is a revolutionary dental health discovery thatcould make the dreaded root canal a dental procedureof the past.

Its a very common belief that existing tooth decay andcavities cannot be reversed, but thats never actually been true. The practice of drilling a tooth and fillingit with a synthetic material is not the only or thebest way to address cavities. Similarly, a root canal is not necessarily a must; there are natural ways to avoid this intense dental procedure.

One of the newest and best ways might just be stem cell fillings. This new approach couldimpact the lives of millions of dental patients and heal teeth when they are injured from dental disease or dental surgery, two very common health concerns.

Adam Celiz, PhD, research fellow at the University of Nottingham, explains:

Existing dental fillings are toxic to cells and are therefore incompatible with pulp tissue inside the tooth.We have designed synthetic biomaterials that can be used similarly to dental fillings but can be placed in direct contact with pulp tissue to stimulate the native stem cell population for repair and regeneration of pulp tissue and the surrounding dentin. (1)

In short, the biomaterial filling would allow the tooth to heal itself.

Typically, the pulp of the tooth and the nerve are removed during a root canal. I know, it doesnt sound too enjoyable. And unfortunately, it can often be quite painful.The good news is that if stem cell fillings become the norm, then fillings made of synthetic biomaterials would be inserted that stimulate dental stem cells to repair and regenerate dentin. Dentin is the bony tissue that forms the majorityof the tooth under the enamel.

The researchers believe that if stem cell fillings are used in a damaged tooth, then the tooths own stem cells willrepair the disease and damage that typically requires a root canal by todays common dental standards. This could also help dental patients avoid other dangerous chemicals typically found in composite dental fillings and sealants. BPAand related estrogenicchemicals often used in fillings can break down in the mouth, exposing patients to hormone-disrupting chemicals and even the carcinogen formaldehyde. (2)

By reversingcavities naturally, youre not only avoiding fillings, you can also avoid root canals.The common reasons that you might need a root canal include having a deep cavity, having acracked tooth, repeated dental treatment to the tooth or trauma. Want to avoidthe need for a painful root canal? Then you must eliminate tooth decay through good nutrition and proper oral hygiene.

While it may take some time for the stem cell fillings technology to hit your dentists office, there are things you can do now toavoid root canals and cavities.

Stem cells are defined as cells that have the ability to divide and develop into many different cell types in the body during early life and growth. Stem cells canalso help repair the body, or in this case a dental disease or injury, by dividing to replenish cells that are damaged by disease, injury, or normal wear. (4)

The research is looking very promising for the use of tooth stem cells in dental patients. So promising in fact that itearned second place in the materials category at the Royal Society of Chemistrys Emerging Technologies Competition 2016.

Hopefully, this type of treatment might be an optionto the public in the very near future. Imaginebeing able to regenerate components of your own teeth. Were potentially looking at a much brighter future of dentistry where damaged teeth could actually heal themselves, lower filling failure rates andthe need for mostroot canals could even be eliminated all together.

Read Next: Home Remedies for Toothaches

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Stem Cell Fillings: A Revolutionary Dental Discovery - Dr. Axe

Actus Therapeutics Inc.

Actus Therapeutics develops gene therapies for rare diseases including Pompe disease and epilepsy.

Adrenas Therapeutics is developing a gene therapy for the treatment of a monogenic disease that presents in childhood.

Asklepios BioPharmaceutical (AskBio) develops protein- and cell-based therapies using a proprietary technology platform called Biological Nano Particles (BNP).

The Division of Therapeutic Research and Development at Atrium Health conducts clinical studies, patient-focused translational research and outcomes research.

AveXis develops and commercializes gene therapy products for neurological genetic diseases. The Durham site is AveXis' manufacturing operations.

Couragen Biopharmaceutics develops gene and protein therapy products for preclinical and clinical use for the treatment of genetic and chronic diseases. Couragen also provides custom adeno-associated virus vectors as a tool for laboratory research.

Elo Life Systems develops Precision Biosciences' technology, called Directed Nuclease Editor, to site-specifically insert or remove traits at a user-defined location in the genome of row crops, biofuel feedstocks and other plants.

Enzerna Biosciences is developing molecular tools for reversible, precise manipulation of gene expression, using technologies that create sequence-specific RNA binding proteins. Enzerna also offers mitochondrial toxicity models and testing.

Falcon Therapeutics is developing personalized neural stem cell therapies to treat cancers.

Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies provides biologics contract development and manufacturing. Services include cell line development, process and analytical development, clinical and commercial manufacturing and bioprocess research and development.

Gene Facelift develops a cosmetic gene therapy in a topical cream formulation to reduce wrinkles, regenerate collagen and restore aging skin. The delivery platform will be used to develop wound healing drugs.

Gyrus Pharmaceuticals is developing treatments for serious diseases of the central nervous system using proprietary therapeutic agents and nanoparticles for noninvasive delivery to the CNS.

NanoCor Therapeutics develops an intracellular genetic protein therapy for the treatment of chronic heart failure.

The NCSU Technology Incubator at Centennial Campus offers a program and facilities specifically designed for tech start-ups with high-impact potential.

Ocis Biotechnology develops implantable custom hydrogel medical devices for surgical implantation and injection that produce time-released biologics for tissue regeneration.

Pfizer's Bamboo Therapeutics develops gene therapies to treat rare genetic central nervous system (CNS) and neuromuscular diseases, including Giant Axonal Neuropathy (GAN), Canavan Disease, Friedreich's Ataxia and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD).

Precision BioSciences utilizes a proprietary genome editing method called ARCUS to treat cancers and genetic diseases, and enable the development of safer, more productive food sources.

Rescindo Therapeutics discovers novel therapeutic targets and drugs for human genetic disorders based on humanized zebrafish in vivo modeling.

StrideBio develops engineered viral vectors for gene therapy for the treatment of rare diseases. StrideBio's technology engine utilizes structure-inspired design to engineer AAV vectors which can escape pre-existing neutralizing antibodies (NAbs).

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Gene Therapy | North Carolina Biotech Center

02/18/2019

AveXis, a leading gene therapy company developing treatments for rare and life-threatening neurological diseases, has announced it will launch a 200-job expansion of the manufacturing center it located in Durham County less than a year ago.

AveXis will invest an additional $60 million in the expansion of its facility.In May 2018, the Illinois-based company announced it was locating its new manufacturing center in Research Triangle Park, with plans to create 200 jobs and invest $55 million. The expansion announced today doubles that planned headcount.

Continued investment in our infrastructure in North Carolina will allow us to manufacture multiple gene therapies simultaneously, helping us reach more patients, faster, said Andy Stober, Avexis senior vice president of technical operations and chief technical officer. Gene therapy manufacturing requires a highly skilled team, and Research Triangle Park is an ideal location for our continued expansion as it enables us to recruit top talent, including through partnership with local schools and colleges.

A Novartis company headquartered in Bannockburn, Illinois, AveXis initial product candidate, AVXS-101, now known as Zolgensma, is an investigational gene replacement therapy for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) Type 1. Zolgensma is designed to address the genetic root cause of SMA Type 1, a deadly neuromuscular disease with limited treatment options.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has designated Zolgensma a breakthrough therapy, which allows expedited review by the FDA. Regulatory action is anticipated in May 2019.

Our primary focus is to bring gene therapies to patients suffering from devastating rare neurological genetic diseases, such as SMA, genetic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Rett syndrome, Stober said.

Gov. Roy Cooper said pioneering companies like AveXis keep our state at the forefront of promising new approaches like gene therapy, which opens up new ways for us to tackle tough diseases.

Im pleased to see a growing number of gene therapy companies join North Carolinas established industry cluster,said North Carolina Commerce Secretary Anthony M. Copeland, taking advantage of the world-class talent and educational resources available here.

The state Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina led the states support for the companys expansion.

AveXis expansion will create a variety of positions in Durham County, including scientists, engineers, analysts, manufacturing and operations personnel.Salaries for the new positions will average $72,952, which is higher than the current Durham County average wage of $68,731.

The expansion will be supported, in part, by a Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) of up to $1,447,500, spread over 12 years. Over the course of the 12-year term of this grant, the project will grow the states economy by an estimated $1.3 billion.

The grant uses a formula that takes into account the new tax revenues generated by the new jobs. State payments only occur after the company has met its incremental job creation and investment targets. AveXis must also remain in full compliance with its May 2018 JDIG in order to receive payments from todays grant.

Because AveXis chose to expand in Durham County, classified by the states economic tier system as Tier 3, the companys JDIG agreement for the expansion also calls for moving as much as $483,000 into the states Industrial Development Fund Utility Account.The Utility Account helps rural communities finance necessary infrastructure upgrades to attract future business.

The North Carolina Biotechnology Center provided technical due diligence for this project, one of several recent projects that adds depth to the states biotech industry cluster in the emerging area of gene therapy.

Partnering with Commerce and the EDPNC on this project were the North Carolina General Assembly, the NorthCarolina Community College System, the North Carolina Biotechnology Center, Durham County, and the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce.

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Gene Therapy Innovator AveXis Plans 200-Job Expansion at ...

Welcome Message From Vancouver Mayor

>||Past Conferences Keynote Speakers ||<

We thank all ourHonorableKeynote Speakersfor their valuable presence, namely

Regenerative medicine 2019 includes 16 Tracks/Sessions and 80+ Sub-Tracks which covers all the aspects starting from Tissue engineering, Regenerative medicine research to Post marketing following are the list of scientific sessions.

For Abstract list of sessions and abstract submission, visit:https://regenerative.conferenceseries.com/abstract-submission.php

Regenerative Medicine 2019offers the scientific community a platform to share their knowledge in the field of Tissue engineering. This conference offers a comprehensive agenda presented through two plenary sessions and panel discussions for the benefit of professionals in the field of Tissue science,Biomedical engineering,regenerative medicine,tissue engineering, stem cell , and others, who are engaged in biomedical field.

We gratefully thank all our wonderfulKeynote Speakers, Speakers, Delegates, Students, Organizing Committee Members, Associations, Sponsors, ExhibitorsandMedia Partnersfor making our Past Regenerative medicine 2019 Conferences (during 2016 & 2017 in USA Region) the best ever!

////****////Mark your calendars for the upcoming conference, we are hoping to see you soon!////****////

Bio Bank 2019

Regenerative Medicine 2019 Conference is a multidisciplinary program with broad participation with members from around the globe focused on learning about Tissue engineering, Regenerative medicine research and its advances. This is your best opportunity to reach the largest assemblage of participants from Tissue engineering, Regenerative medicine from academia, clinical research entities, medical groups, related associations, societies and also from government agencies, pharmaceutical, biomedical and medical device industries.

Regenerative Medicine 2019 will discuss various disciplines involved in the pre-clinical research, conduct of Regenerative medicine; it will educate health care researchers about design, operation, organizing, research computing, regulatory aspects and reporting of Regenerative medicine. It promotes better understanding by the general public about the importance of Regenerative medicine in prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease. This conference conduct presentations, distribute information, meet with current and potential scientists, make a splash with new Tissue engineering, Regenerative medicine research developments, and receive name recognition at this 2-days event. World renowned speakers and the most recent techniques, developments, the newest updates in Tissue engineering, Regenerative medicine Research are hallmarks of this conference.

We cordially welcome all the interested participants to our upcoming 14th International Conference on Regenerative Medicine ,Tissue Science And Engineering which is going to be held during April 22-23, 2019 at Vancouver, Canada. This includes a wide range of Keynote presentations, plenary talks, Symposia, Workshops, Exhibitions, Poster presentations and Career development programs

>|| Past Conferences Chairs/Co-Chairs ||<

We extend our appreciation towards our Chairs and Co-Chairs of the sessions, namely

>|| Past Conferences Moderators ||<

Conference series LLC Ltdexpresses its gratitude to the conferences Moderators, for taking up the responsibility to coordinate during the sessions, we are indebted to your support, namely

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Regenerative Medicine Conferences 2019 | Tissue Science ...

By NameArmaghani, Sheyan J, M.D.Baker, Christopher E., M.D.Barna, Steven A., M.D.Beatty, Ellen , M.D.Bernasek, Thomas L., M.D.Donohue, David M., M.D.Echols, Jr., Eddy L., M.D.Epting, Timothy C., D.O.Frankle, Mark A., M.D.Garcia, Michael J, M.D.Garlick, Grant G, M.D.Gasser, Seth I, M.D.Grayson, Christopher W, M.D.Gustke, Kenneth A, M.D.Hess, Alfred V., M.D.Infante, Jr., Anthony F, D.O.Jackson, Howard B, M.D.Lindbloom, Benjanmin J., M.D.Lyons, Steven T, M.D.Maxson, Benjamin J, D.O.Mighell, Mark A, M.D.Mir, Hassan R, M.D., M.B.A.Miranda, Michael A, D.O.Morse, Adam C, D.O.Nydick, Jason A, D.O.Palumbo, Brian T, M.D.Pappou, Ioannis P, M.D.Ramirez, Jr., John D., D.C.Reina, David A, D.C.Saatman, Donna A, M.D.Samad, Adil A, M.D.Sanders, Roy W., M.D.Sellman, Jeff E, M.D.Shah, Anjan R, M.D.Small, John M., M.D.Stone, Jeffrey D, M.D.Tresser, Steven J., M.D.Walling, Arthur K., M.D.Watson, David T., M.D.Weinstein, Marc A., M.D.Yi, Seung Jin, M.D.Zaffer, Syed M., M.D.

By SpecialtyAll SpecialtiesArthritis & Adult Reconstruction SurgeryChiropracticElbowFoot, Ankle & Lower LegGeneral OrthopaedicsHand & WristHip & ThighInterventional SpineKnee & LegMusculoskeletal OncologyOrthopaedic TraumaPrimary Care Sports MedicineRoboticsShoulderSpineSports Medicine

By LocationsAll LocationsBloomingdaleBrandonCitrus ParkNorth Tampa - Temple TerraceNorthdalePalm HarborSouth TampaSun City CenterWesley Chapel

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Regenerative Medicine | Florida Orthopaedic Institute

Masters in Genetics Counseling The curriculum consists of 40 semester hours: 22 semester hours of didactic course work and 7 semester hours of research. Additionally, there are four 8-week clinical rotations, one 3-week laboratory rotation and one 6-week summer clinical rotation required of all students, which provide an additional 11 credit hours.

MS/MA in Genetic Counseling and Bioethics The Departments of Genetics & Genome Sciences and Bioethics offer a dual degree program between the Masters in Genetic Counseling and the Masters in Bioethics Programs. The dual degree program provides a comprehensive curriculum integrating foundational principles of genetics and ethics.

Faculty Leadership Read about the Genetic Counseling Training Program's Leadership.

How to Apply Interested in Applying? Read about how to apply to Case Western Reserve University's Masters of Genetic Counseling.

The Genetic Counseling Training Program offers two degrees: a Master of Science degree in Genetic Counseling or a Masters in Genetic Counseling and Bioethics (dual degree program).

The Master of Science degree in Genetic Counseling is a two-year academic program comprised of didactic coursework, laboratory exposure, research experience and extensive clinical training. The program, directed by Anne L. Matthews, RN, PhD, is an integral component of the teaching and research programs in the Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences at CWRU under the leadership of Dr. Anthony Wynshaw-Boris, MD/PhD, chairman of the department. Program leadership also includes Rebecca Darrah, MA, MS, PhD, Associate Director; and the program's medical director, Anna Mitchell, MD, PhD Associate Professor in the Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences and Medical Director of the Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center; and Michelle Merrill, MS, LCGC, Director for Clinical Training and genetic counselor at the Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center. The dual degree program in Genetic Counseling and Bioethics is co-directed by Drs. Matthews and Aaron Goldenberg, PhD, Associate Professor of Bioethics and Genetics & Genome Sciences.

The Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC) and graduates of the program are eligible to apply for Active Candidate Status and sit for the American Board of Genetic Counseling certification examination. We are extremely proud of our 98.7% pass rate for graduates who sat for the ABGC examination.

The mission and overall objective of the Genetic Counseling Training Program is to prepare students with the appropriate knowledge and experiences to function as competent and empathetic genetic counselors in a wide range of settings and roles. With unprecedented advances in our understanding of the genetic and molecular control of gene expression and development, and in our ability to apply this knowledge clinically, the Program strives to train students who can interface between patients, clinicians, and molecular and human geneticists. Students gain insightful and multifaceted skills that will enable them to be effective genetic counselors, aware of the many new technical advances and often-difficult ethical, legal and social issues that have surfaced in the light of the Human Genome Project. Graduates of the Program will be prepared to work in a variety of settings including both adult and pediatric genetics clinics, specialty clinics such as cancer genetics, cardiovascular genetics. and metabolic clinics, and prenatal diagnosis clinics, as well as in areas of research or commercial genetics laboratories relevant to genetic counseling and human genetics.

A unique aspect of the Genetic Counseling Training Program that it is housed within Case Western Reserve's Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences that is internationally known for both its clinical expertise and cutting edge research in molecular genetics, model organisms and human genetics. Thus, the Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences at CWRU provides an interface between human and medical genetics with basic genetics and provides an exciting atmosphere in which to learn and develop professionally. The direct access to both clinical resources and advanced technologies in human and model organisms affords students with an unparalleled environment for achievement.

The Graduate Program in Genetics in the Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences provides an interactive and collaborative environment for both pre (genetic counseling and PhD students) - and post-doctoral trainees to come together in a collegial atmosphere. By fostering interactions between pre- and post-doctoral trainees in genetic counseling, medical genetics, and basic research at an early stage of their careers, it is anticipated that graduates will be well-rounded professionals with an understanding of the importance of both clinical and basic research endeavors. Moreover, such resources as the Department of Biomedical Ethics, the Center for Genetic Research, Ethics and Law, the Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences, and the Law-Medicine Center provide for an enriched learning experience for students.

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Masters in Genetic Counseling - genetics.case.edu

American Board of Preventive Medicine111 West Jackson Blvd, Suite 1340Chicago, IL 60604(312) 939-2276www.theabpm.org

A Preventive Medicine specialist focuses on the health of individuals and defined populations in order to protect, promote and maintain health and well-being, and to prevent disease, disability and premature death. They may be a specialist in General Preventive Medicine, Public Health, Occupational Medicine or Aerospace Medicine. The distinctive components of Preventive Medicine include:

Specialty training required prior to Board Certification: Three years

Certification in one of the following subspecialties requires additional training and assessment as specified by the board.

Addiction MedicineA Preventive Medicine physician who specializes in Addition Medicine is concerned with the prevention, evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of persons with the disease of addiction, of those with substance-related health conditions, and of people who show unhealthy use of substances including nicotine, alcohol, prescription medications and other licit and illicit drugs. Physicians specializing in this field also help family members whose health and functioning are affected by a loved ones substance use or addiction.

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American Board of Preventive Medicine - abms.org

About Kidney Failure

Kidney failure (or renal failure) is a condition in which the kidneys fail to filter waste products from your blood. When your kidneys lose their filtering ability, dangerous levels of wastes may accumulate, and your blood's chemical makeup may get out of balance.

When your kidneys have failed, it typically means they have stopped working well enough for you to survive without dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Acute renal failure (ARF) is a rapidly progressive loss of renal function, characterized by oliguria, water imbalance of body fluids, a decreased urine production, and electrolyte disorders.

Chronic renal failure (CRF) is the condition that is caused by permanent damage to kidney function, secondary to any cause. Common causes of chronic kidney disease include diabetes, hypertension, and obstructive diseases of the urinary tract (such as stones, tumors, etc.). It can arise from the complication of inflammatory diseases of the kidney like chronic pyelonephritis and urinary retention, and the use of toxic drugs to the kidney (particularly some antibiotics).

When the disease is detected early, the speed with which the damage progresses can be slowed, delaying the onset of replacement therapies and giving the patient more time to prepare for such therapy.

Stem cell treatment for Kidney Failure is customized to each patients individual needs. The kidney is a very complex organ consisting of many different types of cells. To make a new kidney in the lab, all these different cells would need to be formed in a different way and in the hope that they would reconstruct a functional kidney. Treatment results may vary from patient to patient. You may notice slow or gradual improvements over time, or you may not see results at all.

Stem cell research enables the scientific community to utilize the bodys own repair mechanisms to find new treatment methods for Kidney Disease. In Acute Renal Failure, the body can often repair kidney damage itself, but it is unable to do this well enough to tackle the damage that occurs in Chronic Renal Failure. We look forward to becoming an active partner in helping you achieve a better quality of life.

To learn more about becoming a patient and receiving Stem Cell Therapy for Kidney Disease, please contact one of our Patient Advocates at +1 855 232 3303.

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Kidney Failure | Renal Disease | Stem Cell Treatment ...

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Kidney failure is the Rodney Dangerfield of diseases, it really doesnt get the respect it deserves. An estimated 660,000 Americans suffer from kidney failure and around 47,000 people die from it every year. Thats more than die from breast or prostate cancer. But now a new study has identified a promising stem cell candidate that could help in finding a way to help repair damaged kidneys.

Kidneys are the bodys waste disposal system, filtering our blood and cleaning out all the waste products. Our kidneys have a limited ability to help repair themselves but if someone suffers from chronic kidney disease then their kidneys are slowly overwhelmed and that leads to end stage renal disease. At that point the patients options are limited to dialysis or an organ transplant.

Survivors hold out hope

Italian researchers had identified some cells in the kidneys that showed a regenerative ability. These cells, which were characterized by the expression of a molecule called CD133, were able to survive injury and create different types of kidney cells.

Researchers at the University of Torino in Italy decided to take these findings further and explore precisely how CD133 worked and if they could take advantage of that and use it to help repair damaged kidneys.

In their findings, published in the journal Stem Cells Translational Medicine, the researchers began by working with a chemotherapy drug called cisplatin, which is used against a broad range of cancers but is also known to cause damage to kidneys in around one third of all patients. The team found that CD133 was an important factor in helping those damaged kidneys recover. They also found that CD133 prevents aging of kidney progenitor cells, the kind of cell needed to help create new cells to repair the kidneys in future.

Hope for further research

The finding opens up a number of possible lines of research, including exploring whether infusions of CD133 could help patients whose kidneys are no longer able to produce enough of the molecule to help repair damage.

In an interview in DD News, Dr. Anthony Atala, Director of the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine praised the research:

This is an interesting and novel finding. Because the work identifies mechanisms potentially involved in the repair of tissue after injury, it suggests the possibility of new therapies for tissue repair and regeneration.

CIRM is funding several projects targeting kidney disease including four clinical trials for kidney failure. These are all late-stage kidney failure problems so if the CD133 research lives up to its promise it might be able to help people at an earlier stage of disease.

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Stem cell study holds out promise for kidney disease | The ...

Dr. Darcy E. Brunk is an author, educator, and researcher that has specialized in natural healing protocols for nearly 25 years. He has a passion for helping others and continually striving towards wholesome therapy options for patients to alleviate or eliminate their pain since graduating Cum Laude from Logan College of Chiropractic in 1995. As a result of a near career-ending injury from a car accident causing herniations in his back and neck, Dr. Darcy tried umbilical cord stem cell therapy himself. Yielding amazing results of regeneration from the stem cell therapy, he then acquired a Medical team to deliver this life-changing therapy to his patients. Achieve Vitality has seen patients overcome all types of medical challenges from injuries to chronic conditions. Dr. Darcy is also the Clinical Director of a national stem cell company and has helped over 200 clinics deliver over 35,000 stem cell therapies across the U.S. Now, with the help of stem cell therapy, patients can finally regenerate instead of operating or medicating. Dr. Darcys mission is to empower others to achieve hope, healing, and vitality.

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Stem Cell Therapy in Rockwall, Rowlett, Garland, Dallas ...

Have you been told that steroid injections or invasive surgery are your only options to treat your knee pain? Interventional orthopedics provides a non-surgical alternative that uses your body's own stem cells or blood platelets to help repair damage.

Recent research shows that some of the most popularorthopedic kneesurgeries,including meniscectomies, have no benefit and are nomore effective than placebo or sham surgery.

Moreover, knee replacement is extremely traumatic and carries associated risks, and even successful surgeries require months of painful rehab to regain strength and mobility. Most surgeries also accelerate degeneration, which leads toosteoarthritis and exacerbates the biomechanical problems that initially led to the need for the surgery.

Patients suffering from knee injuries or degenerative conditions should consider all of their options, including regenerative stem cell and platelet injection treatments.

At Regenexx we invented a new approach to orthopedic care we call Interventional Orthopedics. This approach involves the use of image guidance (flouroscopy and ultrasound) to precisely place high-dose stem cells or platelets from your body directly where they are needed in a specific joint structure.

These cells then work in the site of your injury to grow into new, healthy tissue, a process that will only occur if the cells have been placed exactly where they need to go in order to achieve positive outcomes for the patient.

This precise approach to orthopedic care cant be replicated by a surgeon or nurse in a chiropractors office. Interventional Orthopedics requires thousands of hours of training following a standardized protocol process to become a licensed Regenexx physician.

The innovative Regenexx procedures restore knee function and mobility and decrease pain without the need for surgery by regenerating damaged tissue. During this outpatient procedure, ourexpert physiciansuseprecise image guidanceto inject custom concentrations ofyour body's natural healing agentsinto the exact areas of damage to tighten and stabilize your knee joint for better function and mobility.

This page contains an extensive library of educational resources on kneeconditions and our patented Regenexx kneeprocedures. We encourage you to research your options.

GET RELIEF. 855-330-5818

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Knee Stem Cell Therapy & Platelet Rich Plasma