FDA approves first human embryonic stem cell study

The FDA has approved Geron (biotechnology company) to utilize embryonic stem cells to coax them into making spinal cord tissue, heart muscle, cartilage and other organs and tissues. The injections will be made into the spine at the site of the damage of patients who have been paralyzed within 14 days of their injury. Previous studies on animals have shown that once the injected cells mature they will repair what is essentially a lack of insulation around damaged nerves, and also pump out substances that nerves need to function and grow.