The pharmaceutical companies in United States are keen in developing new drugs which stimulates and supports the growth of stem cells, envisaging the rapid developments in stem cell therapy.

The pharmaceutical industry in US is concentrating on developing new drugs like anti microbial products, which can cure the problems related to the stem cell transplantation, according to Dr Paul R Sanberg, AVP Biotechnology Development, University of South Florida and Dr Naynesh Kamani, Professor of Paediatrics and Immunology, Children's National Medical Centre, Washington. Both were addressing a press conference to announce the 'International Symposium on Stem Cell Therapy and Research', organized by LifeCell, the cord blood stem cell banking company and Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute (SRMC&RI).

The role of pharmaceuticals in certain areas like cardiology and cancer therapy can be changed more into care oriented than the present role of cure oriented, in another perspective, added Naynesh. At present the stem cell therapy is only used in a very few percentage of patients, most probably in the end stage cancer in children. "Drug companies in US are now looking for the stimulating chemicals adaptable for stem cell therapy. In future, physicians will give drugs simultaneously with the stem cell therapy," told Paul.

Though the cord blood stem cells lacks the unlimited potential, which the embryonic stem cells have, the present time calls for probing deeper into the capacity and possibility of cord blood, as it is much acceptable to the society, commented Naynesh. He said that India should identify thalassemia, the major health problem found in children in the country, for developing stem cell therapy.

The LifeCell and SRMC&RI are conducting one-day international symposiums at Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi from January 6 to 8. The symposium to be opened by Dr Anbumani Ramadoss, Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare, will focus on successful stem cell transplantations including case discussions, new improvisations, technical advancements, clinical trials and approach, research presentations and regulatory standards and compliances.