Stem cell research is a relatively new area of investigation, believed by many to have the potential to treat many diseases and conditions which are characterized by severe damage to certain cells and tissues.
For people with PSP, its potential lies in the possibility that it could lead to ways of producing limitless supplies of new neurons to replace those lost in the brain through the PSP disease process.
Whilst tremendously exciting, stem cell research is still in its infancy and there is a very long way to go before treatments are available. It is important that this is recognized as all too often stem cell research is overhyped and misrepresented in the media giving false hope to people who find themselves in very desperate situations.
There are important ethical issues that must be taken into account when considering stem cell research, in particular where the research involves the use of stem cells derived from early human embryos (pre 14 days old). The PSP Association takes the ethical issues involved very seriously and believes it is important that there is continuing open and informed public debate about stem cell research.
To date The PSP Association has funded no research involving embryos or stem cells and will only fund research involving human embryos where no viable alternative exists. Research must be carried out under the rigorous regulatory framework provided by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority.
The PSP Association endorses the AMRC Statement on Human Embryo and Stem Cell Research.