The WICE Current Events Forum is a FREE event which provides a dynamic venue for the impartial discussion of public issues and events shaping our lives today. Past Forums have addressed Iraq, the OECD, and environmental protection aspects of international trade finance. Future topics planned are: Stem Cell Research; the role of China in international trade; and more. Come join us for a discussion of ideas and viewpoints in a relaxed atmosphere!

Introduction to Stem Cells: Facts and Fallacies (Recherches sur les cellules souches)

What exactly are stem cells, and what makes them different to other cells? What was so special about Dolly the sheep, and why did she age so quickly? Why was the discovery of adult stem cells important? What happens when adult stem cells stop working in your brain? Is it true that stem cells can grow new body parts? Dr. Samantha Richardson, whose previous research focused on the movement of thyroid hormones (that regulate growth and development) through the blood and across the blood-brain barrier into the brain, is currently doing research on stem cells in the brain, and the role of thyroid hormones in their self-renewal, at the Centre National des Recherches Scientifiques. A short question-and-answer discussion session follows the talk.

Instructor: Samantha J. Richardson, Ph.D., Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Professeur Associé, Evolution des Régulations Endocriniennes, Musée National d’Histoire Naturelle.

The CURRENT EVENTS FORUM is free and open to members and non-members. Registration or an RSVP appreciated, but not necessary. However admission priority will be given to those who have done so. To RSVP, please e-mail your name and telephone to wice@wice-paris.org, attn: Current Events.