ReNeuron in new deal with NHS

RENEURON, the biotechnology firm that is using a Glasgow hospital to carry out the world's first stem cell clinical trial, has signed a new contract with the National Health Service.

Under the deal, Aim-quoted ReNeuron will use the NHS blood and transplant division's manufacturing facilities to make frozen stem cells for pre-clinical trials in the laboratory.

Stem cells have the potential to be changed into any other type of cell in the human body, and so researchers are looking to use them in treatments for degenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease.

Chief executive Michael Hunt said: "We are delighted to be extending our collaboration with the NHS through these contract manufacturing arrangements."

The type of stem cells being made by the NHS facility are the same kind that are being used in ReNeuron's clinical trial with stroke patients at Glasgow's Southern General Hospital.