Ajman University Hosts an International Stem Cell Conference

Thursday, Dec 08, 2011
Ajman University Hosts an International Stem Cell Conference

 The UAE's first stem cell conference kicked off on Saturday, December 3, 2011 at Ajman University of Science and Technology. The conference, themed "Stem Cell from Theory to Practice", was opened by sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ajman.

 

"The conference on stem cells in Ajman, which comes as we still celebrate the Union's 40th year, is another achievement," Sheikh Humaid said. "I am very grateful to all the organizers for this conference and hope it will bring good researchers both locally and globally to join hands and work together in take this new field to a new stage."

Dr. Saeed Abdullah Salman, the University's president, said he was grateful to host the conference, pointing out that stem cells remained among the most controversial scientific topics, but that increased research is vital to find therapies for patients with otherwise intractable conditions.

"Unfortunately, this vital scientific work is being hindered by politics," he said. "I was in china in 2009 and asked one of the leading researchers in the field about US policy to ban stem cell research, and all he could reply was that this is just a political stance taken by the US government towards China. I also could not find a reason for it."

Dr. Saeed urged politicians to give stem cell research a chance. He said it could lead to cures for some currently untreatable conditions, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, neurological disorders and spinal cord problems.

Hamad Taryam Al Shamsi, director of the Ajman Medical Zone and Sheikh Khalifa Hospital, said Ajman University was living up to its founding objective of innovation by organizing such a conference. "Stem cell research is important in the UAE to help in the treatment of people with different accident injuries," he said.

Papers presented at the conference included: "Stem Cell: Research and Application Governing Laws," by Dr Shihabi Ibrahim AlAlsharqawi of Ajman University; "Retrodifferentiation: A Simple, Safe and Ethical Approach towards Stem Cell Creation," by Dr Elham Saleh of the UK; and "Serious International Organizations Working in the Field of Stem Cells," by Dr Zayed Mohammed Al Zaabi of Jordan. Thanks are also due to Maria Trading for their effective participation and Sponsoring this event.