Once the astrocyte precursors are tested for efficacy and safety to minimize the possibility of tumorigenesis, the next step will be to move forward with human clinical trials after approval by the FDA, says Pfaff.

"This team grant is a natural fit for San Diego because it capitalizes on the strength of neuromuscular disease research from the local scientific community," says Pfaff. "The standard has been set very high on this project because we are aiming to grow a safe population of astrocytes that can be introduced into patients. Our success will be measured by whether it will help extend the lives of patients suffering from ALS."

CIRM President Alan Trounson said the pace of the Disease Team projects stands in contrast to the decade or more that's usually required to reach clinical trials. "Scientists have talked for years about the need to find ways to speed the pace of discovery," he said. "By encouraging applicants to form teams composed of the best researchers from around the world we think CIRM will set a new standard for how translational research should be funded."

SOURCE The Salk Institute for Biological Studies