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Explore the permissive legislation, funding sources, ongoing projects, and recent initiatives in stem cell research in Finland. Despite limited resources, the country shows promise in advancing research and collaboration efforts.
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Eero Vuorio 07.01.2003Stem Cell Research in Finland • The scene: • A permissive legislation (similar to that in Sweden) • A permissive atmosphere towards stem cell research (little public opposition) • Possibilities to obtain spare embryos for embryonic stem cell cultures (IVF units at public hospitals and several private infertility clinics) • Only a small number of scientists currently work on stem cells
Stem Cell Research in Finland • Funding of basic and applied research • The Academy of Finland - basic research • National technology agency (Tekes) - applied research • Private foundations (Sigrid Juselius Foundation) • Targeted funding for stem cell research (both embryonic and somatic) has been provided through research programmes and technology programmes • Only a small number of applications received (and funded)
Stem Cell Research in Finland • Examples of research carried out in Finland • Three embryonic stem cell lines established recently • Several research projects on adult stem cells (especially mesenchymal stem cells and skeletal repair - tissue engineering using stem cells and bioactive scaffolds) • Characterisation of stem cell lines by cDNA microarrays (Swedish-Finnish collaboration)
Stem Cell Research in Finland • The overall research base in stem cell research is quite thin and the expertise is restricted to a few scientists • Good possibilities for researcher training and dissemination of new information: an efficient network of graduate schools • Permissive legislation & overall atmosphere • Possibility to target funding for stem cell research, but -> we need international co-operation
Stem Cell Research in Finland • Other recent initiatives/activities: • Swedish-Finnish collaboration • An ESF/EMRC EUROCORE initiative (Development of a stem cell tool-box) on stem cell research • A partnership between JDRF, Academy of Finland and the Sigrid Juselius Foundation