Stem cells to help injured footy players
To stem cell applications of a different kind – Australian biotechnology company Mesoblast are looking at using locally developed cutting edge technology to treat sports injuries. Two years ago, AFL star Nathan Brown suffered a horrific injury, breaking both the bones of his lower right leg. It ended his 2005 season and complications from the injury saw him ruled out of the first half of this season. Even at the time of his injury, stem cells were being trialled as a means of treating other serious health problems, but it has taken time for scientists to refine the technology. Now the multi-million dollar sporting industry looks set to adopt the treatment so players can get back on the field sooner, using cells from adult donors. Chief medical officer at Mesoblast Silviu Itescu discusses the benefits and applications of this emerging technology.