Resources for finding legitimate stem cell research clinical trials

Scientists are making progress on stem cell research to treat a variety of diseases, but they are warning about clinics pushing unproven treatments.

There are "snake oil" clinics worldwide, warns Sean Morrison, a stem cell expert at the University of Michigan.

The International Society for Stem Cell Research say they are concerned about aggressive marketing of clinical treatments that may not have safeguards to ensure the safety and probable benefit.

In June, the company launched the website closerlookatstemcells.org for people interested in such clinics. The site has already attracted more than 10,000 hits.

The site offers basic information about stem cell research and suggests questions to be asked in a private clinic, such as:

• What is the scientific evidence that this new procedure could work for my illness or condition? Where is this publication?
• Is there any independent oversight or accreditation of the clinic where the treatment will be done and the premises where the cells are processed?
• What are the risks of the procedure and possible side effects, both immediate and long term?

The website also invites readers to submit the names of the clinics, which the company will contact you to obtain specific information, since it creates a public facility. The list will reveal whether these clinics have provided evidence of adequate supervision and protection of the patient.

At the U.S. government site clinicaltrials.gov patients and families can seek treatment from formal studies worldwide that are aimed at specific diseases.