New Horizons in Stem Cell Research

Abstract

generate injured tissues and organs in the body. Therefore, this special issue has been published to review the clinical implication of using various stem cell types (from pluripotent to adult including direct differentiated cells) to heal patients suffering from chronic human disorders such as cerebrovascular diseases, chronic liver diseases, cardiovascular disorders, musculoskeletal diseases, and fatal cancers. The emergence of human embryonic stem cell (ESC) lines is one of the most important achievements in the biological sciences during the previous century and has raised a broad scientific and social interest as it is believed embryonic stem cells can be utilized in the near future as a powerful source of material for cell transplantation in regenerative medicine. Studies with human ESC have enabled us to elucidate the gene expression patterns related to pluripotency and to initiate basic research allowing medical scientists to create induced pluripotent stem cells by several methods. Understanding genetic manipulation that can direct stem cells to develop into various lineages of terminally differentiated cells enable us directly to make differentiated cells from various cell sources. In terms of clinical application, adult stem cells including mesenchymal stem cells have become a central focus in the real world. The establishment of an outstanding research laboratory for stem cell research and regenerative medicine involves translational research including the development of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and clean room facilities in companies and medical schools. Further development and the establishment of systems for the production of autologous adult stem cells for clinical usage increase our capabilities for treating patients who have suffered from chronic diseases.