Researchers derive animal-free stem cells

MADISON, Wis., Jan. 2 (UPI) -- University of Wisconsin-Madison scientists Monday were reported moving stem cell technology closer to potential therapeutic use than ever before.

James Thomson, the UW researcher who pioneered the field of human embryonic stem cell research, and a team of researchers say they have created two new lines of stem cells grown entirely without the influence of animal proteins.

The lines were derived from donated frozen embryos and showed, the researchers said, that human embryonic stem cells could be derived and grown on cell cultures not contaminated by animal proteins.

Being animal-free, they say, the find brings the application of stem cell transplants closer to reality than ever before, the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel said.

However, the lines created are not intended for clinical use. They were created as purely proof-of-principle lines, Thomson said.