Network Research Program

In partnership with industries, non-government organizations and government organizations, the Stem Cell Network funds research projects in four strategic areas.

Strategic Program 1:
Stem Cell Applications and Cellular Therapy

Research projects with a specific disease focus aimed at developing novel stem cell related approaches to tissue repair and regeneration. Potential deliverables include stem cell expansion, tissue engineering, stem cell delivery/transplantation, preclinical testing and clinical implementation. The research teams comprise ethicists and jurists to explore the ethical, legal and social issues arising from the scientific research.

Strategic Program 2:
Stem Cell Therapeutics and Drug Discovery

Research projects aimed at developing novel stem cell related therapeutics including the development of small drugs and biologics that stimulate stem cell activation, self-renewal and/or differentiation. Potential deliverables include gene d iscov ery, study of mechanisms/biology, identification of candidate biologics/mimetics, development of cell based screens, high throughput screens with candidate compounds, preclinical testing, and GELS issues where applicable.

Strategic Program 3:
Tools, Reagents and Diagnostics

Research projects aimed at generating novel tools, reagents and diagnostics for stem cell research and therapeutic applications. Potential deliverables include biomarker identification, cell culture reagents, methodology, equipment, imaging, preclinical animal testing, clinical implementation, and GELS issues where applicable.

Strategic Program 4:
Stem Cells and Public Policy

Research projects addressing public policy questions relevant to the Network’s three Strategic Programs as described above, or other issues highly relevant to the mandate of the Network. Potential deliverables include autonomy/privacy, participation in clinical trials, commercialization and intellectual property, including benefit sharing, stem cell therapeutic applications, knowledge translation, and economic impact.