Overview
The New York Stem Cell Foundation (NYSCF) is performing this research to study different conditions and diseases by using cells from the body (such as skin or blood cells). NYSCF uses these samples to make stem cells and other types of cells, conduct research on the samples, perform genetic testing, and/or store these samples for future use.
Through this research, scientists hope to identify future treatments or even cures.
Description
Researchers at NYSCF study diverse diseases, conditions, and traits by creating "pluripotent" stem cells. These stem cells can become any cell in the human body, including cells that may be difficult, invasive, or even impossible to obtain directly. For example, researchers may create pancreatic insulin-producing cells to learn more about type 1 diabetes, or brain cells to learn more about Parkinson's disease.
Additionally, researchers perform genetic testing to learn more about DNA, a material in most cells that contains instructions for the body's development and functions (such as traits like eye color and risk of certain diseases). A piece of DNA that determines the specific role of a cell is called a "gene." If the instructions in a gene are abnormal, this can lead to disease.
Participation in the study involves: (1) completion of a health questionnaire, (2) donation of a skin and/or blood sample from which stem cells may be created, (3) possible collection of a saliva sample for genetic analysis, and (4) possible future follow-up to provide additional information or learn about other research studies. This study is not a clinical trial.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
Age- 18 years or older or
- Minor with parent/guardian consent
Biological Sample Collection
- Able and willing to provide:
- new samples of blood, skin, and/or saliva specifically for use in this study and/or
- excess/leftover samples, cell lines, and/or derivatives that were (or will be) collected for reasons other than this study
Exclusion Criteria:
- Non-English speaking
- Wards of the state
- For skin samples collected specifically for this study: history of keloid formation, bleeding disorder, allergy to the anesthetic, or anticoagulation use that precludes sample collection.
- For blood samples collected specifically for this study: bleeding disorder, or other medical condition, if the subject's condition increases the risks associated with blood collection.
- For saliva samples: inability to produce sufficient saliva or has a condition that precludes sample collection (such as severe trismus).