Mayo puts stem cells to the test on infant’s heart defect

Published 1:43pm Monday, June 10, 2013

ROCHESTER Every year, about 1,000 babies are born in the United States with half a heart a rare defect that requires a series of risky surgeries and, even then, leaves the infants with a strong likelihood that their hearts will wear out prematurely.

Now, the Mayo Clinic has received federal approval for a first-of-its kind clinical study to see if stem cells from the babies own umbilical cords can strengthen their underdeveloped hearts and extend their lives.

If it works, the new technique could buy these children time as scientists scramble for a cure for the congenital defect called hypoplastic left heart syndrome.

The Mayo study, which will begin as soon as 10 eligible candidates can be enrolled, could also pave the way for additional breakthroughs in stem cell treatments that would help the 19,000 children born each year with other heart defects. But for the time being, the doctors at Mayo are keeping their focus on those babies who need the most help now.

We are not here to build an academic career out of science and technology, said Dr. Timothy Nelson, director of Mayos HLHS research program. Were really here to make a difference in childrens lives who are living today with unmet needs.

Christina DeShaw of Clive, Iowa, was pregnant with fraternal twins when she learned during an ultrasound procedure that the left side of her daughters heart was not developing properly.

The world just started spinning, DeShaw said. Our lives were forever changed from that moment on.

DeShaw and her husband, Brad Weitl, sought help from the Mayo Clinic for the baby they named Ava Grace.

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Mayo puts stem cells to the test on infant’s heart defect