Singapore: In a new breakthrough, researchers at the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, have cultured cardiac cells from stem cells. Lead researcher, Mr Polani B Seshagiri said that the cardiac cells developed exhibited properties and functions identical to the original cell.

Speaking on Stem Cell Awareness Day, Mr Seshagiri said that stem cells had several advantages as they could transform into any type of cell that can be used to treat ailments. India, however, has no proper guidelines to regulate stem cell research and nurture this burgeoning sector.

Mr Nazeer Ahmed, deputy Drug Controller of Karnataka said that the state health authorities are in the process of developing a regulatory framework to nurture stem cell research. Mr Sudarshan Ballal, medical director, Manipal Health Enterprise, said stem cells had enormous potential as they never die and can be converted into organs and may be years later, organs can be cultivated in labs through stem cells.