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Stem cell technologies are creating unique opportunities for genetic engineering. Stem cells can be differentiated to specific cells such as dopamine-producing neurons for Parkinson's disease or pancreatic beta cells for diabetic patients. Tissues and organs can be grown from a patient's own stem cells and then transplanted back to that person, thereby reducing the risk of tissue rejection. Stem cells also offer potential as a vehicle for gene transfer. Dr. Hanazono has demonstrated a clinically relevant (10%) increase in gene-modified cells using human stem cells in non-human primates.
Dr. Schartzenberger and other researchers are utilizing stem cell genetic engineering as a treatment for AIDS, where RNAse genes are incorporated into CD4+ cells, making them resistant to virus uptake.
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