Human embryonic stem cells were mixed with cultures of rat heart cells, and began pulsing with them. They were then injected into the walls of pigs hearts which had been intentionally damaged (in such a way that a pacemaker would be the normal solution in a human). 11 of 13 animals showed improvement, and the rhythm was sustained in both of them. The studies strongly suggest that adult stem cells would not be useable for this.
Stem cells and vision
2 separate vision-related studies have been reported recently. One was the first derivation of retinal cells from embryonic stem cells. If animal testing goes well, the researchers say they could begin testing in humans as soon as two years from now. If they do, this would be the first actual therapeutic use for stem cells and could potentially restore degraded or lost vision.
In another study, stem cells injected into mice prevented vision degeneration to the extent that it would otherwise occur. In this case, it was bone marrow stem cells, which are extracted from adults.
Biological glue
Bone marrow stem cells are being used as one ingredient in a biological 'glue' that may be used to hold hip replacements, among other things, in place. The researchers warn, however, that this is about 10 years from human use.
Restored motion Hans Keirstead has now, by injecting embryonic stem cells, restored the rats with bruised spinal cord's ability to walk.
Parkinson's This one's 'old' news (2002) but I was reading about it at the same time as the above, so I thought I'd mention it anyway. Parkinson's is marked by a decrease in dopamine levels. Scientists at the National Institute of Health have coaxed rats with Parkinson's into producing dopamine by injecting stem cells into their brains.
