This first-ever open-to-the-public session of the annual scientific retreat was organized by McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine faculty members based on general questions they receive from the public almost on a daily basis. The purpose of the event is to provide an honest discussion with stem cell therapy and science communication experts on what is hope, what is hype, what is experimental, and what is therapeutic relative to various advertisements and promises regarding stem cells. The program’s conversation aims to sort out the alternative facts and the fake news surrounding the medical science of stem cells. Many factors determine the safety and efficacy of stem cell treatments. Simply put, you need the right cells, to the right patient, at the right time, in the right way. If scientists do not ensure the field of stem cells research is credible through good science and ethical practice, the field will quickly become unbelievable.
