PANEL DISCUSSION: Stem Cell Research & Diabetes: Realizing a Promise
At least 24 million American adults and children have diabetes and struggle with its many complications, including heart disease, amputation, and blindness. Scientists believe that stem cell research holds great promise in the quest for a cure for type 1 diabetes and provides a powerful tool for controlling type 2 diabetes.
In a panel discussion, leading stem cell scientists and patient advocates came together on April 29, 2009 to discuss the latest developments in stem cell research and diabetes. The discussion, organized by the New York Stem Cell Foundation (NYSCF), was open to the public and drew several hundred people to The Times Center in Manhattan.
Panelists:
Allen M. Spiegel, M.D., The Marilyn and Stanley M. Katz Dean of Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Dean Spiegel is the former director of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) at the National Institutes for Health (from 1996-2006). He is also a former vice chair (2005-2006) and member of the NIH Stem Cell Task Force (2002-2005) and has testified before the House and Senate on stem cell research. Dr. Spiegel provides an overview of the state of type 1 diabetes research from the perspective of a former NIDDK Director who helped shape the NIH research agenda.