iPSC Learning

Overview

             iPSCs can be used as a potential source for cell replacement and regenerative medicine. Scientists have been investigating if stem cells are able to generate tissue to replace those damaged by diseases. Patient-specific cells may be reprogrammed into iPSCs and cultured to form healthy tissue in vitro. The regenerated tissue can then be transplanted into patients to restore function in vivo. iPSCs also have the potential to induce self-repair when injected directly to the disease-affected sites. They are able to differentiate into the disease-affected cell types to replace the damaged cells or to signal stem cells inside the body to differentiate into target cell types. The use of iPSCs as a means of treatment has been in active research. Many potential therapies are currently under clinical trials and showing positive results.

             

             Shown below are some fields in which iPSCs therapies are under active research. Let’s walk through some case studies on how iPSCs may have the potential to treat these diseases.