Bio 71-Stem Cells    Assignment 4: Stem Cells in Heart Injury Repair        Due 11/22/11

1.  read the assigned articles
•    follow links and/or use the web to clarify vocabulary and concepts as necessary

2.  Write an essay of approximately 1-2 pages that includes
•    brief summary of the clinical trial
    •    what were the steps in the process?
    •    what was expected?  What was hoped?
    •    what are the results?
    •    is the trial complete? If not, explain what is left to be done, or why/how it is not complete
    •    are these results conclusive or anecdotal?  Explain.
    •    if someone asked you whether they should try this procedure, what would you advise?  Explain.
•    what you think about this news
    •    what you think is good about it (if anything)
    •    what you think is bad about it (if anything)
•    what other information you would like to have in order to make an informed decision
•    where you might be able to get this information (in general terms, not specific references)

references:

http://healthland.time.com/2011/11/14/first_human_heart_stem_cell_trial_shows_promise/

http://www.cnn.com/2011/11/14/health/stem_cells_heart_damage_reverse/index.html

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2011_11_15/heart_failure_risk_may_be_reduced_by_stem_cells_study_shows.html

http://www.latimes.com/health/boostershots/la_heb_cardiac_stem_cell_trials_20111114,0,2120128.story

http://www.latimes.com/health/la_he_heart_stem_cells_20110207,0,7589476.story

http://www.latimes.com/health/boostershots/la_heb_heart_attack_bone_marrow_stem_cells_20111114,0,6722312.story