Report from SIR: Interventionalists assess fluorescing stem cells to treat peripheral vascular disease

March 12, 2009 Diagnostic Imaging. Report from SIR: Interventionalists assess fluorescing stem cells to treat peripheral vascular disease By H.A. Abella Using biotechnology developed from fireflies and seaweed, Johns Hopkins researchers are developing radiopaque stem cells for targeted delivery of therapy in patients with peripheral arterial disease. The technique may allow guidance and tracking of stem cell injections meant to grow new blood vessels and offer a way to confirm therapy response. About eight million people over the age of 40 in the U.S. suffer from peripheral vascular disease, according to the American Heart Association. The rate climbs to nearly 20% among those aged 65 and older. Without proper treatment, PVD can lead to more serious vascular events such as gangrene, myocardial infarction, stroke, and death.

See full article and related articles at DiagnosticImaging.com
This article was republished with permission from CMPMedica, LLC