Stem cells used to partially repair damaged hearts
A group of German researchers have developed a method for repairing the heart using new muscle generated from stem cells. The results are promising and they have started clinical trials. The technique involves creating sheets of cells and combining them into a single patch that can be attached to the heart's exterior. In experiments, the scientists found that the added tissues integrated into the hearts functionally and immature stem cells did not form tumors. The implants weren't problem-free - some of the stem cells in the sheets appeared to be uncommitted to a mature state and one animal generated an immune response to the implanted cells.