The 2014 World Stem Cell Summit opens in San Antonio this week with dozens of scientists presenting their research from around the globe.
The event begins with an education event at the UT Health Science Center that is open to the public.
Research is well on its way to discovering important advances to solve complicated medical problems, but many are still hesitant and critical of regenerative medicine.
Tory Williams, co-founder of the Alabama Institute of Medicine, authored a book documenting the story of a young person’s paralyzing injury and a clinical trial to regenerate his spinal cord tissue using stem cells.
Speaking on TPR’s The Source Monday, Williams said embryonic stem cell research remains the most misunderstood.
"It is the golden standard of stem cell types. And many people don't understand that these cells come from fertility clinics. So they're not being created for research. They're actually being used when they are no longer viable for other couples to use them to create their families," she said.
The UT Health Science Center is hosting an outreach program Tuesday for any member of the public interested in finding out more about stem cell science.
For persons interested in attending the free lecture and panel discussion: http://uthscsa.edu/op/stemcell.asp
9 a.m. Keynote lecture by Dr. Elaine Fuchs – Stem Cells: their biology and promise for regenerative medicine, Pestana Lecture Hall at UTHSC
1-4 p.m. Expert panels with Q&A, Holly Auditorium at UTHSC
Enter through the 7703 Floyd Curl gate, guards will guide visitors.
