EuroStemCell researcher challenges amniotic stem cell claims

In the original article, De Coppi et al. reported that amniotic fluid-derived stem cells could give rise to a variety of cell types of different lineages, including liver cells, bone-forming cells and neurons. Cattaneo and colleagues now question the evidence that these amniotic stem cells are able to produce differentiated cells with features of the neuronal lineage.

EuroStemCell coordinator Austin Smith, of the Wellcome Trust Centre for Stem Cell Research in Cambridge, says “this report emphasises the need for full and rigorous evaluation of stem cells before major claims are made. Scientists should be aware of the implications for patients' groups and wider political debates”.

Stem cell biologist Ole Isacson, from Harvard Medical School, commends the editors of Nature Biotechnology for their decision to publish a challenge to high impact findings. “This [attitude]” Isacson says, “strengthens the basis of stem cell research. Discourse is an essential part of the scientific progress”. Report author Cattaneo adds, “this field remains open. We hope the discussion will continue, and look forward to hearing more about the potential of amniotic fluid-derived stem cells.”

Although the EuroStemCell project has completed its research programme, its renowned website (www.eurostemcell.org) will continue to promote discourse, discussion and debate around stem cell research when it relaunches next month.