Sunday with a Scientist to explore regenerative medicine

The University of Nebraska State Museum’s July Sunday with a Scientist program for children and families will explore the basics of stem cell research and regenerative medicine. The event is 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. July 16 at Morrill Hall, 645 N. 14th St.

University of Nebraska-Lincoln researcher Yuguo Lei and scientists from the Laboratory for Stem Cells, Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine at Nebraska will help visitors learn more about regenerative medicine. Lei’s team is working to develop efficient cell therapies for diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, and spinal cord injuries.

“Each day, large numbers of people lose limbs due to injuries or diseases. Regenerating the lost human body part has been a hot topic in sci-fi stories or movies for a long time,” Lei said. “Advances in stem cells and regenerative medicine during the past decade are making this dream a reality. With the help of stem cells and laboratory printers, humans will be able to regenerate body parts that have been lost or damaged.”

Children and families will learn what stem cells are and how they differ from other cells. Lei’s team will provide hands-on experiments.

Sunday with a Scientist is a presentation series that highlights the work of scientists, while educating children and families on a variety of topics related to science and natural history. Presenters share scientific information in a fun, informal way through demonstrations, activities or by conducting science on site. The presentations typically take place from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. on the third Sunday of each month.

For more information, including upcoming topics, click here.