Stem Cell Therapy: Current Applications and Future Prospects
Introduction Stem cells are unique cells with the ability to self-renew and differentiate into various specialized cell types. There are several types of stem cells, including embryonic stem cells (ESCs), adult stem cells (ASCs), and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The history of stem cell research is marked by significant milestones, such as the discovery of ESCs in 1981 and the development of iPSCs in 2006 by Shinya Yamanaka, which earned him a Nobel Prize in 2012 . Current Applications of Stem Cell Therapy 1. Regenerative Medicine Orthopedics: Stem cells are used to treat bone fractures, osteoarthritis, and spinal cord injuries by promoting the regeneration of bone, cartilage, and nerve tissues . Cardiology: Stem cells have shown promise in repairing heart tissue after myocardial infarction, potentially reducing heart failure incidence . Neurology: Stem cell therapies are being explored for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Al...