Stem Cell Research
The dream of regenerating organs was once found only in science fiction. Brigham and Women’s Hospital is ready to make this dream a reality. Raymond Anchan, MD, PhD, a neurobiologist and gynecologist, is leading groundbreaking research on using engineered non-embryonic stem cells in hormone therapy, infertility treatments, and repairing lost function in the ovaries. His discoveries have the potential to give women new options in battling hormone loss, infertility, premature menopause, and even cancer.
Stem cells have the potential to develop into other types of cells and organs of the body—they can turn into virtually any cell of the body. Dr. Anchan’s research focuses on adult cells that can be reprogrammed genetically to assume a stem cell-like state. This type of stem cell, called pluripotent stem cells, are not from embryos. Dr. Anchan’s laboratory is pursuing the understanding of the behavior and development of pluripotent stem cells, with a specific focus on potential therapeutic applications in women’s health. Dr. Anchan has a specific interest in fertility preservation and hormone function replacement to help women who undergo chemotherapy, with a long-term goal of using stem cells to regenerate functional ovarian tissue.
The potential for stems cells goes beyond women’s health and infertility. With further research stem cell research potentially could help treat common diseases and conditions like:
- Parkinson’s
- Birth defects
- Spinal cord injuries
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Leukemia
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Brain cancer
- Brain trauma
- Deafness
- Burns
- Heart disease
- Muscular dystrophy
- Liver disease
- Macular degeneration
If you would like to help us explore the full potential of stem cell use, please consider donating to our stem cell research.
