Stem cells: Medical applications and issues of concern

Abstract

During the last decade, stem cells emerge as a potential alternative treatment for several degenerativediseases. Despite their ability to generate most specific cell types for cell replacement therapy and tissue engineering,the uses of embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells and adult stem cells in clinical applicationsare still limited. There are several problems that need to be addressed before stem cell treatment can be consideredfor practical applications. According to that, the carefully designed basic and clinical studies have to be performedto improve our understanding on basic biology and therapeutic potentials of stem cells, as well as the safety andlong-term benefits of stem cell therapy.

Key words: Stem cell, Regenerative medicine, Therapeutic cloning