Stem cell technology has great potential to cure diseases and improve medical treatments, according to a leading Irish researcher in the field.
And while researchers are optimistic about stem cell use, it will still take many years before these treatments come on stream.
The Institute of Technology Sligo last night hosted a talk by a top stem cell researcher and director of NUI Galway's Remedi Institute, Prof Frank Barry.
The event was held as part of Science Week Ireland which runs until next weekend.
"A stem cell is a cell which is isolated from human tissue and easily grown in the lab and can change itself into different cell types," Prof Barry explained before last night's lecture in Sligo.
He and fellow researchers are studying adult stem cells, which could be useful in the treatment of cardiovascular disease, arthritis and spinal cord injury. "Here we are building a significant activity in adult stem cell research," he said. "Ireland is making a name for itself."
Animal studies have delivered very promising results for these diseases, he said. "I think to be very honest we are seeing a really strong accumulation of data that stem cells will lessen the impact of these diseases."
Stem cells can be grown in the laboratory to make a plentiful supply. Researchers have learned how to culture them and then cause them to change into a target cell type using growth factors and other biochemical signalling proteins.
"It is still research and what works in rats doesn't always translate to man," he cautioned, but added, "As a scientist working in the field I think it is pretty optimistic."
Prof Barry's lecture is one of 350 events planned across the State during Science Week Ireland.
Minister for Children Brian Lenihan, yesterday used Science Week as a launch pad for the Primary Science Fair 2006, part of the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition that takes place at the RDS in Dublin during January next year.
He presented a special leaflet encouraging children in 4th, 5th and 6th class to take part in the fair.
"The leaflet was developed by the National Children's Office with the help of 15 primary school pupils who were involved in choosing the content and design of the leaflet," Mr Lenihan said at yesterday's launch at the Ark, Temple Bar, Dublin.
Information about how to participate in the Primary Science Fair can be found at www.btyoungscientist.ie
Details about other Science Week events during the coming week are available on the internet at www.science.ie