Letter from the Dean
Dear Readers,
As a pediatric cancer specialist, one of my most painful experiences
has been telling parents that there may be no treatment for their child's
illness. At the same time, I have had the opportunity during my career
to observe how research findings and technologies can offer hope to patients
with life-threatening disease. That is what makes so upsetting the current
restraints that exist on stem cell research.
Indeed, we have at our fingertips a resource -- stem cell research
-- that offers great promise for understanding and treating a number
of serious disorders and that could change the course of discussions between
physicians, patients and families. Its potential to cure even one disease,
diabetes for example, would transform the future for thousands of children.
Last year we launched the Stanford Institute for Cancer/Stem Cell Biology
under the leadership of Irv Weissman, MD, one of the world's pre-eminent
scientists in the field. Our goal is to bring together basic scientists,
clinical scientists and other members of the Stanford community to address
the challenges of this new frontier in science and medicine.
But today stem cell research remains embattled in the United States.
We are once again watching science pitted against political ideology.
As a physician as well as a citizen, I am deeply troubled by what is occurring.
It's as if we have entered a time warp and are spectators at the
Inquisition's reading of charges against Galileo for his views of
the solar system.
Yet, I am an optimist. I believe in the common sense of the American
people and am convinced that science will triumph over ideology. But precious
time is being lost in the interim.
Moreover, despite the political debate that swirls about, Stanford scientists
push ahead, exploring the potential held by embryonic stem cells, as well
as stem cells from mature humans -- adult stem cells. Using adult
stem cells, we are learning to repair brain damage after a stroke. We
are also exploring how to heal neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's
and Alzheimer's disease. Using embryonic stem cells, we are working
toward repairing the pancreas in diabetes, treating brain diseases and
replacing heart muscle after a heart attack.
As dean, I am committed to advancing stem cell research not only at Stanford
but also in California and the nation. In November, California voters
will have the opportunity to exert extraordinary leadership by approving
a state ballot measure, Proposition 71, that will dedicate $3 billion
for stem cell research.
As a citizen, I am planning to vote for the measure and I urge each of
you to take a close look at it as well. It has the ability to truly transform
the state into a global leader in the field. An article about the man
behind the initiative appears in this issue.
There will be challenges ahead as stem cell research unleashes its full
promise and potential. Yet the path from laboratory to bedside has already
been advanced. I believe stem cell biology will be transformational in
this decade.
I hope that you will enjoy this special issue of Stanford Medicine,
which highlights our research with stem cells and examines the ethical
dilemmas we must consider on this new frontier.
You'll also read a personal perspective by actor Michael J. Fox,
who battles Parkinson's disease. It's a poignant reminder
that this work we do is about eliminating suffering and enhancing people's
lives.
With best regards,
Philip A. Pizzo, MD
Professor of Pediatrics and of Microbiology and Immunology
Carl and Elizabeth Naumann Professor
Dean, Stanford University School of Medicine
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