VATICAN HOSTS CONFERENCE ON THERAPIES IN REGENERATIVE MEDICINE

Today, at the Vatican, begins the third of series of 3-day conferences on Progress of Regenerative Medicine and Its Cultural Impact.  The goal of the event, created by the Vatican’s Pontifical Council For Culture, The Stem For Life Foundation and STOQ (Science, Theology and the Ontological Quest), is to engage in discussions about the potential for adult stem cells, and other ethical cellular therapies, to treat cancer, diabetes and a other debilitating medical conditions and diseases.  On Friday, Pope Francis will meet with participants which include researchers and professionals from other fields, which includes politicians. Among the speakers is Vice President, Joe Biden.

ROBIN SMITH, President, The Stem for Life Foundation, speaking of the conference’s purpose says, “We want to inspire a true international conversation, one that unites people of all races, all religious beliefs, cultures and economic backgrounds in the cellular revolution.”

Many of the conversations will focus on the needs of sick children and marginalized populations.  This blending of humanity into discussions of science and technology was encouraged by Pope Francis, however, he is not one of the conference’s originators.  This conference is the third edition of these meetings and the second time it’s being held at the Vatican. The first was in 2011, during the pontificate of Benedict XVI.

For more information, go to the Conference website

or the Vatican Radio website