Neural stem cell isolation and culture from preterm infant CSF
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Targeting active brain protection through cell therapy in preterm infants at risk of cerebral palsy: Study of neural stem cells and molecular signalling in the cerebrospinal fluid of preterm infants
IRAS ID
224094
Contact name
James Uney
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Bristol
Duration of Study in the UK
4 years, 0 months, 30 days
Research summary
Very premature babies born 8 to 12 weeks early are likely to survive. However, 8% of these babies have significant bleeding into their brain, called intraventricular haemorrhage, which is associated with a high risk of serious disability. Currently in the UK 1150 children up to the age of 18 years are affected by cerebral palsy as a consequence of brain bleeding at birth. Improving the long-term outcome for these babies is our major goal.
How this research will help:
We wish to build on our pioneering work in which we have managed to grow neural stem cells from the cerebrospinal fluid of these babies. This fluid is currently a waste product of routine clinical care. We aim to study and expand stem cells from babies with brain bleeding – as they could provide a revolutionary treatment through transplantation back into the babies from which they were taken.
The proposed work is essential for safe and successful translation of our knowledge into a treatment option. This research will prepare for a pre-clinical trial in an established animal model. Anticipating successful completion we
will start a phase 1 clinical trial transplanting these cells in babies within 5 years.REC name
East of England - Cambridge Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/EE/0339
Date of REC Opinion
14 Nov 2019
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion