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Message Regarding Stem Cell Trial: Updated 05 October 2010

We have begun the phase I trial of spinal cord derived stem cells for patients with ALS. We have now completed six patient surgeries and we can report that all are doing well as of this date. Three patients received injections into one side of their spinal cord, and three patients received injections into both sides. Group A is now complete.

We began this trial with those who had severe disability and thus were at a lower risk for added weakness that may occur as a consequence of stem cell injection into the spinal cord. We are now moving forward with patients with less disability. As we move forward, the eligibility criteria will change for future groups. This information will be posted on this website as the trial progresses.

Those interested in the trial should understand that this is purely a "safety trial" (phase I in medical terminology) to see if injection of cells into the spinal cord is safe in people with ALS. Thank you for your interest and your support in moving this important trial forward.

We are now recruiting for Group B (3 patients) and Group C (3 patients). Patients participating in these groups will have difficulty walking, but be able to walk without the assistance of another person and have good breathing function. The selection criteria for participants for group B and C are listed below.

Please understand this is only a partial list of the eligibility criteria. If you do not meet the following criteria, you will not be considered for enrollment. Due to the complexity of this study, priority will be given to current patients of the Emory ALS Center. Only people who live close to Atlanta will be considered.


Group B and C (up to 6 patients)
Eligibility Criteria:

1) Confirmed diagnosis of ALS by a neurologist

2) Vital capacity greater than 60% of predicted value seated; greater than 50% measured flat on your back

3) Difficulty walking due to ALS

4) Lack of complicating medical conditions

5) Live in geographic proximity to Emory University Hospital

6) Ability to communicate vocally or with low-tech tools (writing or letter board)

The consent form for Group B can be downloaded here: Stem Cell Consent Form
I have read the consent form and I meet the criteria for Group B. I would like to be considered as a participant. Please click here: Eligibility Form