Second Vatican stem cell conference set for 2013

November 05, 2012 - The Vatican’s Pontifical Council for Culture and an adult stem cell research foundation will host an international conference in the Vatican next year to discuss regenerative medicine and its implications for culture, ethics and faith. The Second International Vatican Adult Stem Cell Conference on the theme, “Regenerative Medicine — A Fundamental Shift in Science & Culture,” is scheduled from April 11-13, in the Vatican. Monsignor Tomasz Trafny, head of the Science and Faith department at the Pontifical Council for Culture, said it is the council’s mission to explore the cultural impact of new research. It aims to “offer the best tools for pastoral care” and “encourage understanding of changing culture.” Dr. Robin Smith, President of the U.S.-based Stem for Life Foundation, said that the conference will educate people of all backgrounds on the potential of adult stem cells to treat chronic disease. It will generate “truly international dialogue” on regenerative medicine and explore the connections between scientific breakthroughs, faith, culture and ethics. The conference aims to foster dialogue among researchers, physicians, philanthropists, faith leaders and policy makers to identify unmet medical needs that can benefit from the development of stem cell therapies. It also strives to raise awareness about present opportunities in existing therapies and reduce misunderstandings about the field. Unlike embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells are not derived from the destruction of human embryos, which the Church regards as murder. Some patients who have undergone adult stem cell therapies will speak about how the research has reduced their suffering. The conference also aims to lay the foundation for a network of scientists, educators and patrons interested in the potential of adult stem cells.