Vatican Partnership – Stem for Life Foundation

Raising Awareness and Advancing Research

In 2010, NeoStem entered into a partnership with the Vatican’s Pontifical Council for Culture for what has been characterized as the Vatican’s first-ever ‘contract of collaboration’ with an outside commercial venture to advance adult stem cell research. The initiative brings together NeoStemand the Stem for Life Foundation with the Pontifical Council and its charitable organization, STOQ International, to work towards raising awareness and advancing scientific research on adult stem cells; exploring their clinical application in the field of regenerative medicine; and examining the cultural impact of such research along the way.

The partners are spearheading a campaign to generate awareness of the exciting potential for cellular therapies to lead a fundamental shift in medical treatment options— a move away from just managing illnesses to developing cures. This international initiatives aim to teach, inform and provide research support on important issues of human health, with a focus on the present and future of medical progress in relation to adult stem cell research, all while promoting the highest respect for human life.

In April 2013, NeoStem, SFLF, the Pontifical Council and STOQ hosted The Second International Vatican Adult Stem Cell Conference: Regenerative Medicine – A Fundamental Shift in Science & Culture, following the success of the first conference in November 2011. With renowned journalists serving as moderators, the conference featured leading adult stem cell scientists and clinicians, thought leaders of faith, ethics and culture, business leaders as well as Ministers of Health and Ambassadors to the Holy See. During the event, adult stem cell scientists and clinicians presented an array of ongoing medical advancements occurring throughout the world including regrowing damaged and diseased organs; regenerating damaged tissue caused by heart attacks; growing new skin for burn victims; rebalancing our own immune systems; advancements in pediatric cancers; preventing organ rejection and addressing a range of other conditions and trauma, such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease and traumatic brain injuries via adult stem cell therapies

Learn more about the partnership and the Vatican Adult Stem Cell Conferences.