Growing a Kidney

[jdwills83]

Did anyone else see the special on 60 minutes a few weeks ago about growing organs?

[GratefulDad]

I didn't see 60 minutes on the subject but I've read about it.  I've been watching a company called Tengion who's pioneering the commercialization of growing organs.  They have successfully grown bladders and blood vessels having transplanted them into patients.  A new technology seems to be eclipsing the growing of organs in a lab and that's growing organs inside one's body.  Scientists have successfully grown new kidneys inside of mice and rats.  Google has a ton of information on this.  I don't know the time frame on all of this but I am certain that in the future this will be the predominate way people receive new organs.

[tawniepixie]

I have heard about that. It would be amazing if/when that actually comes to pass.

[Zog]

I hope something like that works.  It would be a cure and not a treatment.  I don't know if we'd sign up to be the first ones to grow them in our bodies.  I keep thinking of kidneys growing in random places.

It sure beats "The Island" scenario.  That movie is an interesting take on growing organs.

Have you seen researchers load up inkjet cartridges with cells and print tissues?

[sullidog]

I saw this on Oprah a while back, it was interesting.
Troy

[Phraxis]

The company Tengion has filed for an IPO and expects to be listed by mid-year.