The event, which is free and open to the public, is part of the health system's discussion series entitled "Stem Cell Dialogues," which offers opportunities for the public to learn about the stem cell therapies that UC Davis is developing to address a wide array of diseases and injuries. Those interested in attending this session should reserve seats by contacting Heather Mora, (916) 734-9716. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Free parking will be available in Lots 12 and 14, just south of the Education Building, near 45th Street and Second Avenue.
"The potential for stem cells to be used in treating eye disease and hearing disorders is very exciting, and stem cells have already been used to restore vision in patients for certain forms of blindness," said Jan Nolta, director of the UC Davis Institute for Regenerative Cures and the university's stem cell program. "This community forum is a great opportunity to share with the public the research that we have under way in our laboratories. People will be amazed at the potential clinical applications that we are exploring using stem cells."
Nolta is one of the featured experts for the evening's discussion. She will be joined by Ebenezer Yamoah, a neuroscientist who is studying the potential for using stem cells to create a biological implant to restore hearing. Susanna Park, professor of ophthalmology and vision science, will discuss regenerative medicine and its potential for treating vascular-related vision loss, such as retinal vein occlusion and diabetic retinopathy.
The event will be moderated by Claire Pomeroy, CEO of UC Davis Health System, vice chancellor for Human Health Sciences and dean of the School of Medicine at UC Davis. Pomeroy is also a member of the governing board of the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine.
About UC Davis Stem Cell Research
UC Davis is playing a leading role in stem cell research, with more than 140 faculty scientists and physicians working on a variety of stem cell investigations at campus locations in Davis and Sacramento. The university's Institute for Regenerative Cures, a facility supported by the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, recently opened in Sacramento. This large research facility provides state-of-the-art laboratories, cell manufacturing and testing rooms, enabling researchers to launch clinical trials involving stem cell therapies. The institute, along with a shared-research facility in Davis, complements the university's NIH-supported Clinical and Translational Science Center and is designed to help turn stem cells into cures.