Patricia Pranke


Patricia Helena Lucas Pranke is a Brazilian stem cell researcher at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul. Between 2003 and 2005, Pranke was one of two scientists who helped the Federal Government of Brazil write the National Biosafety Law, regulating research on human embryonic stem cells in Brazil.

Biography

In 1968, Pranke became one of the first successful bone marrow transplant recipients in the world. According to Pranke, "Actually, when we talk about bone marrow transplantation, we are talking about stem cell transplantation."
Pranke earned a degree in Pharmacy and Biochemistry from the Federal University of Santa Maria, completed a master's degree in Medical Sciences from the State University of Campinas, a doctorate in Genetics and Molecular Biology from Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul / New York Blood Center - United States - and a post-doctorate from Philipps-Universität Marburg, Germany, in the area of using nanotechnology techniques for tissue engineering through the cultivation of stem cells in nanofiber molds for the reconstitution of organs and tissues.
Specifically, she works in the area of hematology and stem cells on the following topics: stem cells, umbilical cord blood, nanotechnology, nanomedicine, regenerative medicine, tissue engineering and artificial organs.
Since 1995, she has worked as a professor and head of the Hematology and Stem Cell Laboratory at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at UFRGS.
In Brazil, Pranke has been a pioneer in introducing the study of stem cells associated with nanotechnology for the Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine International Society.

Memberships

Pranke has published more than 70 articles in scientific journals and 6 book chapters.
Pranke has received 10 awards, including: Award for Social Responsibility FADERS, 2005.