Stem cell collaboration for MS research

The MS Society and the UK Stem Cell Foundation (UKSCF) have formed a partnership to attract high quality research applications. Up to £1m is available for joint funding opportunities and the two organisations are calling for research grant applications.

The collaboration is a direct response to a number of international experts expressing the view that MS is a condition that could benefit greatly from an increase in targeted stem cell research investment.

Progress has been hindered by a critical gap between currently available government and private funding, and the countless promising research projects in need of financial assistance.

Dr Doug Brown, biomedical research manager at the MS Society, said the partnership would "pump prime" and speed up stem cell research. He added: "We're delighted to announce this partnership that is the first of its kind and look forward to receiving applications for research funding.

"Stem cells are showing real promise in MS, and the sooner we can take the science from the bench to the bedside, the sooner people with MS will get the answers they so desperately need."