Pubgoers learned about the latest scientific developments at a Pint of Science event sponsored by the NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre (BRC).
The BRC supported the Pint of Science event at Oxford’s Wig and Pen on Tuesday May 19.
Pint of Science brings together scientists to discuss their latest research and the sold-out event was packed with people keen to learn about stem cell research.
A stem cell can become a different type of cell in the body, for example a muscle or nerve cell, giving researchers the opportunity to mimic degenerative conditions like arthritis and Parkinson’s disease, in culture.
The knowledge gained from such research will aid in developing better diagnostic tools and more advanced treatments.
The University of Oxford’s Professor Zameel Cader, a BRC supported researcher and director of StemBANCC, an industry-academic partnership into stem cell research, spoke at the event.
He explained how stem cells can offer the hope of scientific advances as the discovery of new drugs is slowing down.
Professor Cader was joined by Professor Richard Wade-Martins, Associate Professor of Biomedical Science, University of Oxford, who spoke about the use of stem cells to research Parkinson’s disease.
Dr Sally Cowley, Head of James Martin Stem Cell Facility, Oxford Stem Cell Institute, the University of Oxford, explained what stem cells are and what can be achieved by experimenting on them.
Pint of Science is run by volunteers in pubs around the world to bring science to the public in an informal setting.
Professor Cader said “The Pint of Science festival offers the BRC a brilliant opportunity to allow people to learn more about our research and the direct benefit on patients in a relaxed setting.”