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Presenting at a briefing alongside the Minister of State for Universities and Science and representatives from leading academic institutions, the BioIndustry Association (BIA) has today called upon the government to take the lead on regenerative medicine commercialisation by making a long-term commitment to the sector.
Although the Technology Strategy Board and UK Stem Cell Foundation have provided strong support for translational activities for regenerative medicines, the figures involved pale when compared to the investments by other nations. The BIA recognises that financing is not all that is required to smooth the translational pathway to help bring these potential new treatments to patients. The UK needs to leverage assets such as the NHS for clinical trials, to streamline the regulatory process, to enable reimbursement, to support the emerging industry in the UK and create a conducive environment for overseas companies, whilst placing patients and their carers firmly at centre stage.
Professor Chris Mason, Chair of the BIA’s Regenerative Medicine Industry Group Advisory Committee, said: “The ability of the UK to deliver on its world-class stem cell research rests with our politicians. Having strongly supported the initial discovery stage, the Government must finish the job by providing the necessary environment for the clinical translation and commercialisation phase, before our hard-fought lead is lost together with all its future benefits to UK health and wealth.”
