Life Knowledge Park
In August 2004, scientists based at LKP created headlines around the world when they were granted the first European licence to carry out somatic cell nuclear transfers ('therapeutic cloning'). Intense focus on this work has continued and exciting progress is being made.
The Institute of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (ISCBRM) is growing in the North East of England through a wide collaboration between partners.
The Institute draws together the Durham and Newcastle Universities, the Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals Trust and South Tees NHS Trusts, the International Centre for Life and the Regional Development Agency (One NorthEast). This unique interdisciplinary collaboration aims to convert stem cell research and technologies into cost-effective, ethically-robust 21st century health solutions to ameliorate degenerative diseases, the effects of ageing and serious injury. To achieve this goal, the Institute will train a new generation of basic science and health professionals, host stem cell researchers from outside the UK as part of an international consortium for stem cell research, foster the emergence of new healthcare companies in the North East of England and provide transparent access for education and public engagement in the ethical debate surrounding the use of human stem cell technologies.