Levchenko co-author of PNAS study

BME faculty member Andre Levchenko is a co-author on a recently published PNAS study (Dec. 1, 2009) suggesting that a combination of gene and stem cell therapies can save limbs that might otherwise be in danger of amputation. The work was performed in collaboration with Gregg Semenza’s laboratory at Hopkins’ Institute for Cell Engineering.

Blood vessel blockage, a common condition in old age or diabetes, leads to low blood flow and results in low oxygen, which can kill cells and tissues. Such blockages can require amputation resulting in loss of limbs. The new therapies increase blood flow, improve movement and decrease tissue death and the need for amputation.