Some 400 veterinarians, research scientists, and medical professionals interested in stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine will gather June 2 through 5 in Lexington, Ky., for the second North American Veterinary Regenerative Medicine Association Conference.

The conference will bring together researchers from both human and veterinary medicine as well as equine and small-animal clinicians to discuss research findings and applications in this area of veterinary medicine. It is an educational meeting for the North American Veterinary Regenerative Medicine Association, formed in 2010 by researchers and private-practice veterinarians at UC Davis and elsewhere to promote research and sharing of new findings related to regenerative medicine and stem cell therapy in animals.

UC Davis is joining with prominent horse clinics in Kentucky and California to coordinate the conference.

A special June 4 half-day forum also is planned for horse owners, trainers and equine professionals who are interested in learning more about this rapidly developing area of veterinary medicine.

“Scientists, medical doctors and veterinarians see regenerative medicine and stem cell therapy as the ‘promise of cure,’ rather than just a temporary, palliative treatment said veterinary professor Gregory Ferraro, the association’s president and director of the UC Davis Center for Equine Health.

“The association now offers veterinarians, scientists and medical professionals one organization where they can meet to exchange scientific information and understand both the promises and limitations in this emerging and important field,” he said.

The conference will feature scientific presentations and discussion sessions that blend research and practical applications, addressing all aspects of stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine in horses and small animals.

More information about the North American Veterinary Regenerative Medicine Association and the upcoming conference, including membership and registration, is available at http://www.navrma.org.