Midwest Stem Cell Therapy Center
In 2013, Governor Sam Brownback with the Kansas Legislature approved the formation of the Midwest Stem Cell Therapy Center (MSCTC). The center is housed within the University of Kansas Medical Center campus in Kansas City, Kansas. The MSCTC is designed to serve as a hub of adult stem cell therapy, research, and education in the State of Kansas and the adjoining region. The MSCTC faculty and staff include physicians, scientists and trainees representing the fields of adult stem cell biology, neurology, oncology, hematology, cardiac and vascular, endocrine and other sub-specialties. These individuals represent several local and regional institutions, enabling the formation of a stem cell network of knowledge and information.
Indeed, this synergy among various institutions also fosters productive collaborations that may result in faster translation of basic science discoveries into the clinic. Through the support of our donors, the MSCTC has made significant strides in the relatively short time since its inception. Indeed, the MSCTC houses an with the demonstrated capability to provide clinical grade adult stem cells for use in clinical trials. Several clinical trials with adult stem cells are in the start-up phase within KU Medical Center and external research collaborations are being discussed. In addition, cutting edge molecular stem cell research is being conducted by MSCTC scientists. These ongoing studies involve induced pluripotent stem cells, regulation of cellular differentiation, cord blood cells, as well as various transcription factors and other molecular pathways in adult stem cells.
Furthermore, it is important to equip patients and caregivers alike with the latest information on adult stem cell therapy so they may make informed decisions regarding treatment options. For patients who are interested in stem cell studies going on around the country, they have created sets of the latest studies. In addition, the MSCTC is planning to expand the training of postdoctoral fellows in basic research in adult stem cell biology, as well as clinicians in adult stem cell-related topics. was held September 14th – 15th, 2018 at the Sheraton Overland Park. Their annual conference has been well-received by a broad audience and expanded to include internationally known leaders in stem cell research. While they have made great strides since their induction, they also understand that we are a very nascent center, and as such, have a long way to go.