CIRM Training Program in Translational Regenerative Medicine

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Grant Award Details

Grant Type:
Research Training Grant
Grant Number:
EDUC4-12751
Investigator(s):
Name:
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center Wafa Tawackoli
Institution:
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Type:
PI

Award Value:
$5,373,075
Status:
Active

Progress Reports

Reporting Period:
Year 1
Reporting Period:
Year 2
Reporting Period:
Year 3
Reporting Period:
Year 4

Grant Application Details

Application Title:

CIRM Training Program in Translational Regenerative Medicine

Public Abstract:
We propose a CIRM Scholars Training Program in stem cells and translational regenerative medicine for 4 PhD student, 8 postdoctoral (PhD) scientist and 8 clinical (MD) physician trainees. Training the next generation of scientists and clinicians is vital for the lasting success of stem cell research and the translation of lab discoveries into clinical therapies to repair and regenerate damaged and diseased tissues. Cedars-Sinai’s Regenerative Medicine Institute (RMI) is a world-renowned center for stem cell research and an ideal training environment. The proposed CIRM Scholars Training Program combines the unique strengths of faculty, scientists and clinicians with expertise in key areas of stem cell and regenerative medicine research to facilitate bench-to-bedside advances. Our stem cell and clinical biomanufacturing facilities provide cutting-edge resources to enhance the training environment. The Program offers formal training in: 1) the use of stem cells in regenerative medicine, 2) innovative techniques to study stem cells and model human diseases in the lab, and steps necessary before stem cell products can be manufactured for clinical use and evaluated in clinical trials, and 3) ethical, legal and social implications of stem cell research and regenerative medicine. The training experience is further enriched by partnerships with clinicians through the Cedars-Sinai Clinical Buddies Program, an annual RMI retreat to facilitate collaboration, and community outreach opportunities to educate and inform high school students, patients and other members of the broader community. Our proven track record of blending research excellence with experimental medicine and clinical practice demonstrates that we are uniquely positioned to offer such training.
Statement of Benefit to California:
This CIRM Scholar Training Program will benefit the state of California and its citizens by: 1) training scientists and clinicians, including those from underrepresented backgrounds, to perform stem cell research and develop novel regenerative medicine therapies, 2) preparing scientists and clinicians to be the next generation of leaders in the regenerative medicine field, 3) translating lab-based discoveries into therapeutic products that will benefit patients with a variety of diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, ALS, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory bowel disease, organ dysfunction, osteoporosis and cancer, 4) providing outreach opportunities to educate high school students about stem cells and careers in regenerative medicine, and 5) sharing information about advances in regenerative medicine research and ethical and social issues related to stem cell research with patients and the general public to help them make healthcare decisions and more informed choices at the ballot box.

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