Iran Among the Top Five Countries in Stem Cell Research
Iran’s Leading Role in Stem Cell Science
Iran ranks among the top five countries globally in the field of stem cell research and technology.
Professor Jalil Tavakkol Afshari, from Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, stated:
“Many scientifically and economically advanced countries are at the frontiers of knowledge, and Iran is recognized as one of the five leading nations in the world in stem cell research and development.”
Stem Cell Advancements and Iran’s Position
Tavakkol Afshari highlighted the rapid progress in medical and biological sciences, opening new horizons for treating diseases that previously had no cure.
He added:
“Currently, numerous advanced countries are investing in gene therapy and cell therapy, both scientifically and economically. Fortunately, Iran has made significant strides in this direction, positioning itself as a global leader in stem cell research. While there is still a gap in gene therapy compared to some countries, we anticipate achieving remarkable breakthroughs in the near future.”
The Role and Importance of Stem Cell Banks
According to Tavakkol Afshari, these play a crucial role in medical research and treatment. These banks collect and in iran store stem cells for clinical and research applications.
He explained:
“These are either public or private, and they specialize in preserving different types of stem cells for various medical purposes.”
Key Characteristics of Stem Cells
Stem cells possess unique properties that make them invaluable in medicine. Tavakkol Afshari emphasized:
- Self-Renewal: They can divide and create identical cells.
- Differentiation: They can transform into specialized cells under certain conditions, aiding in tissue growth, regeneration, and repair.
Types of Stem Cells
Stem cells are categorized into three main types:
- Embryonic Stem Cells:
- Derived from early-stage embryos.
- Pluripotent, meaning they can differentiate into any cell type.
- Adult (Mature) Stem Cells:
- Found in organs and tissues like the brain, bone marrow, fat, skin, and blood.
- These cells typically generate specific types of cells (e.g., blood, nerve, or bone cells).
- Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs):
- Created by reprogramming adult cells, such as skin cells, using genetic techniques.
- These cells mimic embryonic stem cells and can differentiate into various cell types.
Applications of Stem Cells in Medicine
Stem cells have three major applications in healthcare:
- Disease Treatment:
- Used for conditions such as leukemia, heart disease, neurological disorders, spinal cord injuries, and autoimmune diseases.
- Tissue and Organ Regeneration:
- Stem cells help repair damaged tissues and restore organ function.
- Scientific Research and Drug Development:
- Essential for disease modeling, drug testing, and understanding biological mechanisms.
- A powerful tool in medical genetics and regenerative medicine.
Iran Umbilical Cord Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine
In banks, umbilical cord blood stem cells are collected at birth. These cells are primarily hematopoietic stem cells, capable of producing different blood cell types.
Tavakkol Afshari concluded:
“Umbilical cord stem cells are widely used to treat blood disorders such as leukemia, anemia, and immune system diseases. They are also being explored for use in regenerative medicine.”
Types of Stem Cell Banks
Tavakkol Afshari explained those are categorized into two main types: public and private.
- Public Stem Cell Banks:
- These banks store donated umbilical cord blood, which is available free of charge for anyone in need of treatment.
- Private Stem Cell Banks:
- Families pay for the storage of their child’s stem cells for potential future use.
- However, the likelihood of a person needing their own cord blood stem cells is relatively low.
Embryonic Stem Cell Banks
Regarding embryonic stem cell banks, Tavakkol Afshari stated:
“These banks collect and store derived from developing embryos, often surplus embryos from in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures.”
- Embryonic stem cells can develop into almost any cell type in the body.
- They have significant potential in regenerative medicine, including treatments for Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injuries, and diabetes.
Adult Stem Cell Banks
Tavakkol Afshari also discussed adult stem cell banks, which store stem cells from adult tissues, such as:
- Bone marrow
- Adipose (fat) tissue
- Skin
- Peripheral blood
These banks primarily store:
- Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) from bone marrow or blood – used for blood cell regeneration and treatments like leukemia.
- Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from fat or bone marrow – capable of regenerating cartilage, bone, and muscle.
Adult stem cells are utilized in arthritis, joint disorders, regenerative medicine, and tissue repair. They are stored in both public and private banks, though private banks are typically used for personal or family purposes.
Primary Tooth Stem Cell Banks
Tavakkol Afshari highlighted that children’s primary (baby) teeth are a rich source of stem cells.
- The dental pulp of baby teeth contains mesenchymal stem cells, which can transform into bone, cartilage, and fat cells.
- These stem cells are easier to collect compared to other sources, as baby teeth naturally fall out.
- They are used in bone and joint disorders, spinal cord injuries, and heart disease treatments, as well as genetic research and new therapies.
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC) Banks
Regarding iPSC banks, Tavakkol Afshari explained:
“These banks store induced stem cells, which are mature cells—such as skin or blood cells—that have been genetically reprogrammed to behave like embryonic stem cells.”
- iPSCs can differentiate into any cell type, including neural stem cells or pancreatic stem cells.
- They are essential for disease modeling, drug testing, and personalized medicine.
- Researchers are exploring their potential applications in regenerative medicine.