Stem cell research

Stem cells are special cells that retain the potential to grow into any cell type within the body. They are also capable of dividing to produce multiple exact copies of themselves.

Since Alzheimer's and other diseases cause the gradual death of brain cells, stem cell research could lead to completely new approaches to tackling dementia focused on replacing lost brain cells.

Stem cells can be isolated from two major sources - mature adult organs and embryonic tissue. For many people, the use of stem cells from embryos is controversial because it involves the collection of cells from abortions, leftover IVF treatments, or embryos created solely for cloning whose growth is stopped after a few days of development.

The Alzheimer's Research Trust considers applications involving carefully regulated stem cell research alongside all other research applications. The charity funds research applications in accordance with the law, which are of the highest standard and which, according to the best scientific advice, are likely to offer the greatest hope of making real progress in the search for an effective method of treating or preventing Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

We are currently involved in a joint project with the Alzheimer's Society, funded by the National Lottery, which is investigating the possible use of transplanted adult stem cells to halt or reverse cognitive decline and dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease.

While we believe that projects using stem cells will accelerate progress towards treatments, the Alzheimer's Research Trust is able to restrict donations to non-stem cell research projects, or those only involving adult stem cells, on request. Supporters simply need to let us know when making a donation.

The Alzheimer's Research Trust is a member of the Association of Medical Research Charities. Further information on stem cell research can be found on its website: www.amrc.org.uk.