"Stem:-ing the Falsehoods.

• Author: Sherwood, Sarah
• Position: Medicine & Health - Stem cell science

"Industry has a valid stake in stem cell science, but we need to make sure qualified researchers are behind the outcome. [Patients] should always ask themselves, 'Has the FDA cleared this? Is it backed by peer reviewed science?' Their life may depend on it."

SINCE THE DISCOVERY of stem cells nearly 40 years ago, the fascination around them has been everywhere, with predictions of a cure-all in everything from Alzheimer's to diabetes--but because there often are unscrupulous providers along with well-meaning researchers, it often is difficult to differentiate promising science from hype. Making the decision about which doctor or which therapy is critical, because there are clinics offering stem cell products that are both unapproved and unproven--and potentially dangerous.

Travel to other countries, as an attempt to secure a less-expensive procedure, also can be dangerous. Too many patients are unaware that there are tools available, cleared by the Food and Drug Administration--created by medical societies and university medical centers--that can help people sort fact from fiction when it comes to stem cell research and treatment.

In 1994, physicians Robert E. Marx and Arun Garg discovered the effects of molecules that hold bone material together--the concentration of platelet content. Until then, the scientific community knew that platelets controlled the initial step of healing by getting to the healing site first, but what Marx and Garg found was that the role of platelets initiating healing--a critical second step--would be important for wound repair. The cells actually released a series of growth factors at the area of injury. Marx and Garg increased the numbers of platelets and found that healing was amplified in both speed and quality. This was called platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment.

Out of this research grew many surgical applications that quickly spread from oral and maxillofacial to orthopedic surgery, sports, and even veterinary medicine (especially for injured racehorses). Surgeons began using the new therapy and it became a popular adjunct treatment for professional athletes.

Contradictory information, though, continued to be a concern, so Marx and Garg decided to publish teaching materials and provide continuing education courses. "Once we stopped teaching, misinformation took over," says Marx, chief of oral and maxillofacial surgery at the University of Miami's School of Medicine. "This is why I continue to travel to...