Workshop on Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine

Abstract

Stem cells are pluripotent or multipotent cells possessing the ability to develop into specialized cells that ensure proper organ function. Because of their promise in regenerative medicine, over the past few years stem cells and so-called progenitor cells have been studied extensively as potential tools for the repair or replacement of defective organs in disease. Examples of these attempts include treatment of specific diseases of the nervous system, haematopoetic disorders, diabetes, skin replacement, ophthalmologic diseases, and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. The spectrum of scientific studies involving stem cells in basic, translational and clinical research is very large. In some fields it has already brought success, while practical perspectives for treatment of disease are still lacking in others.