The directors of the California stem cell agency later today
are expected to approve $1.2 million for two University of California stem cell
researchers as part of what the agency calls a “bridging” program.
The effort has received little attention but could be a key
for some research as scientists try to turn more basic efforts into something
that could reach the marketplace.
Patricia Olson, executive director of scientific activities
, has prepared some slides for today’s meeting in Millbrae, Ca., that lay out a
bit of the scope of the effort.
She reported that the goal of the program is to accelerate
development of stem cell therapies. She said the bridging program is aimed at
providing an “efficient and seamless advancement of promising CIRM-funded
translation and development projects towards and through clinical development.”
No RFA is used for the effort. Instead scientists must
submit a brief proposal that could lead to further consideration. Up to $12
million has been allotted to the effort. Olson did not present information on
how many proposals have been submitted.
