Geron initiates clinical trial of human embryonic stem cell-based therapy

13 October 2010

Less than two months after the US government lifted its clinical hold on such research, Geron Corp (Nasdaq: GERN) has announced the enrollment of the first patient in the company's clinical trial of human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, GRNOPC1.

Geron, a biotechnology company based in the "silicon valley" area of south of San Francisco, USA, has spent $170 million on developing a stem cell treatment for spinal cord injury. In animal trials, paralysed rats regained some movement. However, it is not yet known if it will offer any benefit to people with spinal cord injuries.

The primary objective of this Phase I study is to assess the safety and tolerability of GRNOPC1 in patients with complete American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale grade A thoracic spinal cord injuries. Participants in the study must be newly injured and receive GRNOPC1 within 14 days of the injury.

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