Stem cell research, misinformation to be examined at Baker Institute event

HOUSTON – (Aug. 29, 2022) – On Sept. 9^th, Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy will host “Regenerative Medicine: Highlighting and Correcting Misinformation”, an event that will examine misinformation surrounding stem cell research and regenerative medicine.

Stem cells have been widely marketed to the public for their regenerative properties and promise to revolutionize medicine, but often with claims far exceeding the known benefits. At best, the procedures are largely ineffective, and at worst, patients are exposed to severe health complications, said Kirstin Matthews, a fellow in science and technology policy at the Baker Institute.

At this event, a panel of experts from various disciplines will discuss the clinical and promotional landscape of stem cell-based interventions. The panelists will share studies on misinformation perpetuated by less reputable providers, ways of correcting misinformation, and policy approaches to help lead patients to more informed decision-making.

What: “Regenerative Medicine: Highlighting and Correcting Misinformation” Baker Institute event

Who:

• Zubin Master, PhD nonresident scholar at the Baker Institute and associate professor of biomedical ethics at the Mayo Clinic’s Biomedical Ethics Research Program and Center for Regenerative Medicine
• Emily Vraga, PhD the Don and Carole Larson Professor in Health Communication at the University of Minnesota
• Moderated by Emerson C. Perin, MD, PhD medical director at the Texas Heart Institute and director of its Center for Clinical Research and Stem Cell Center
• Opening remarks by Kirstin Matthews, fellow in science and technology policy at the Baker Institute.

When: Friday, Sept. 9, 7:30-9 a.m.

Where: The event is free, but registration is required. Click here to register to attend in person at Rice’s James A. Baker III Hall, or click here to register to attend virtually via Zoom.

This event is part of an annual policy lecture series co-sponsored by the Baker Institute Center for Health and Biosciences and the Texas Heart Institute, with support from the George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation.

To schedule an interview with Matthews or Master, or for more information, contact Avery Franklin, media relations specialist at Rice, at averyrf@rice.edu or 713-348-6327.

 

Register

 

ABOUT TEXAS HEART INSTITUTE (THI)

Texas Heart Institute, founded by world-renowned cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Denton A. Cooley in 1962, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing the devastating toll of cardiovascular disease through innovative and progressive programs in research, education, and improved patient care. Participating in research programs in cardiology, cardiovascular surgery, stem cell, and gene therapy, and regenerative medicine, the institute scientists and physicians spearhead some of the most innovative research in the medical field. Texas Heart Institute continues to uncover underlying causes of heart disease and the ways to better treat and even prevent it through translational, basic, and clinical research programs. With initiatives ranging from postdoctoral and continued medical education to public outreach and scientific publications, Texas Heart Institute is dedicated to spreading awareness and sharing updates on ways to prevent, treat, and defeat cardiovascular disease. As global leaders in cardiac patient care, Texas Heart Institute has been ranked among the top cardiovascular centers in the United States by U.S. News & World Report for over 30 years.

ABOUT RICE UNIVERSITY BAKER INSTITUTE

Founded in 1993, Rice University’s Baker Institute ranks as the No. 1 university-affiliated think tank in the world and the No. 1 energy think tank in the world. As a premier nonpartisan think tank, the institute conducts research on domestic and foreign policy issues with the goal of bridging the gap between the theory and practice of public policy. The institute’s strong track record of achievement reflects the work of its endowed fellows, Rice University faculty scholars and staff, coupled with its outreach to the Rice student body through fellow-taught classes — including a public policy course — and student leadership and internship programs. Learn more about the institute at www.bakerinstitute.org or on the institute’s blog, http://blog.bakerinstitute.org

Follow Rice News and Media Relations via Twitter @RiceUNews.

This news release can be found online at news.rice.edu

For Media Inquiries

Jeff Falk
713-348-6775
jfalk@rice.edu

Avery Franklin
713-348-6327
averyrf@rice.edu

Keri Sprung
832 355-9591
ksprung@texasheart.org