The ability of stem cells to generate a wide range of more specialised cell types holds out the real prospect of treatments for currently intractable degenerative diseases, such as Alzhiemer’s and motor-neurone disease.

Stem cell research is a UK strength. New initiatives such as the National Stem Cell Bank and the MRC-led International Stem Cell Forum, and further development of NHS clinical trials infrastructure will help to build on the existing strong research position to keep the UK at the forefront of international activity.

The initial research priority is to gain a better understanding of the fundamental biology of stem cells and their development. Later on we can progress to translating these new insights into treatments for major diseases and disabilities.