BOSTON: Australia has been chosen to host a world-first trial of revolutionary stem cell therapy for Parkinson’s disease.
The trial, by the Californian-based International Stem Cell Corporation, will be held at the Royal Melbourne Hospital.
If first phase is successful, larger trials will start in Australia, Europe and the US in the next couple of years.
Melbourne neurologist Dr Andrew Evans said phase one was approved to be held in Australia because the country has a culture of innovation and a high standard in clinical research.
“I think favourable research environment with regards to R and D [Research and Development] tax credits,” he said.
The trial involves 12 Australian Parkinson’s sufferers injected with neural stem cells.