Spina Bifida: Arthur, ToMo and Tobi’s story 

Understanding the Impact: Arthur, ToMo and Tobi 

Clinical Trials using new therapies developed at UC Davis have changed the lives of bulldogs and humans.  

In July 2018, UC Davis launched a clinical trial combining surgical and stem cell interventions in dogs with spina bifida. The trial helped pave the way for first-in-humans clinical trials. 

By spring 2021, UC Davis Health launched the CuRe (Cellular Therapy for In Utero Repair of Myelomeningocele) clinical trial, the world’s first spina bifida treatment for humans combining fetal surgery with stem cells. 

In recognition of the trial’s success, in November, 2023, California’s stem cell agency—the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine—and Shriners Children’s awarded UC Davis $15 million to progress to the next stage of trials. 

This video linked below chronicles the inspiring story of two dogs, Arthur and ToMo, alongside a child—Tobi—whose lives have been dramatically improved through advancements achieved at UC Davis and delivered to patients through clinical trials like those supported by Braddock Philanthropies.