Stem Cell Research?

I was diagnosed with hepatitis C-related kidney disease in May of '05.
I aquired the virus in 1951 through a blood transfusion that was necessary to save my life from pernicious anemia, and the virus hid in my body for 54 years, before knocking me down.
Now, since October '06, I have become dependant on dialysis to survive. I am performing peritoneal dialysis daily, at home.
I have no desire for a kidney transplant, as I feel that dialysis is sufficient to keep me alive for a number of years, yet.
What I do wonder and hope for is a movement forward in stem cell research.
I have heard that some progress has been made in the past few years, but have not really found any details about this topic.
Is my hope unrealistic? Has anyone heard or read of the current status of stem cell research?

love to all

LightLizard

[LightLizard]

gee thanks for your interest folks.
'bye.

[purplecat]

I've read that Hep C raised chance of Renal Failure 5 fold. I know nothing about kidney and stem cell research.

I am curious about your HepC, you said since 1951? That's when you figure you were exposed?  You had DX of non A/B Hep before 1990? or when did you find out you had HepC?  What is your Genotype?  VL? Liver fibrosis stage?  Have you had a biopsy?  How long have you had the Kidney problem?  Did you have Kidney problem and on dialysis before you knew you had HepC? I've also read that Kidney dialysis caused HepC exposure.  I'm very curious and would like to help.  I will read up on stem cell this weekend.  This is my TX shot night so the weekend I pretty much recoupe and work in my lap top.

All the best
  

[purplecat]

Seems they are just starting human trials using bone marrow stem cell to help repair Kidney damage.  They've been successful with Mice and rabbits.  Long ways away however.

Stem Cell Therapy is further along for Liver. They have been doing human trials for a couple of years.  Looks really promising in helping regenerate the liver in patients with Cirrhosis.