NEW YORK, Oct. 16, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- National Stem Cell Holding, Inc. (Pink Sheets:NHGI), a biotech company, announced today that Dr. Ian McNiece, Director of the Division of Biomedical Sciences for Johns Hopkins Singapore and Professor of Oncology with Johns Hopkins University, has joined the company's Scientific Advisory Board.
McNiece is Director of Johns Hopkins' Graft Engineering Laboratory and is responsible for all processing of bone marrow, peripheral blood progenitor cell (PBPC) products and cord blood products for transplantation of cancer patients. He is actively involved in optimization of cellular grafts for patient treatment and the translation of basic research to clinical treatment. Dr. McNiece received his BSc in Biochemistry, MSc in Physiology, and Ph.D. in Physiology from Melbourne University in Australia.
Developing a stronger understanding of stem and progenitor cell biology to create cellular therapies for regenerative and replacement tissue engineering is the goal of McNiece's research. His lab focuses on the role of cord blood products, particularly as an alternative cellular graft and the potential for ex vivo expansion of cord blood cells.
"Dr. McNiece brings a wealth of knowledge and shares our vision for the future of regenerative medicine," explains Michael Cohen, CEO of National Stem Cell. "We are pleased he has agreed to join our board and look forward to his input and guidance as we work to make stem cell therapies a reality."
About National Stem Cell Holding, Inc.
National Stem Cell Holding, Inc. (Pink Sheets:NHGI) is a biotechnology company headquartered in New York City dedicated to the advancement of regenerative medicine. Incorporated in 2005, National Stem Cell Holding is the parent company of National Stem Cell, Inc. ("NSCI") which operates the Sperm Bank of New York as a wholly owned subsidiary. Through its sponsored research agreement with the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine's Institute for Cell Engineering ("ICE"), NSCI is focused on the development of potential stem cell therapies for the treatment of diabetes and cardiac injury. The company also plans to develop a genetically diverse umbilical cord blood bank to meet the growing need for transplant grade umbilical cord blood stem cells. For more information, please visit www.nationalstemcell.com.