Episode description

This month we're presenting a review of stem cell research and stem cell therapies from Professor John Rasko FRACP, head of the Department of Cell and Molecular Therapies at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital

A self-confessed 'stem cell tragic,' Professor Rasko routinely separates the hope and hype surrounding any new medical research. In this episode, he reviews the stem cell treatments currently available in Australia and New Zealand, and a few of the many clinical trials worth watching. He also discusses why some patients engage with unproven and riskier procedures, and what advice he offers them. 

Production
This episode was produced by Anne Fredrickson, with reporting by Michael Pooley. Music from Lloyd Rogers ('Red Fish on Television'), Podington Bear ('Many Hands'), The Womb ('Amiga Power Viking Funeral'), and Cloud Mouth ('Bedtime'); photo by Eckhard Völcker (via Flickr).

Editorial feedback was provided by RACP Fellows Dr Bruce Foggo, Dr Chris Juttner, A/Prof Matthew Links, Dr Christian Lueck, A/Prof Ruth Marshall and Dr Emma-Leigh Synnott, and A/Prof Megan Munsie (University of Melbourne).

Please visit the RACP website for a transcript embedded with citations. Fellows of the College can claim CPD credits for listening and additional reading.