I see great potential in stem cell-based therapies, especially induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells) derived from patients’ skin cells. At the same time, I am aware of challenges we may face. One of the major issues is safety. Because stem cells can differentiate into any types of cells, there is a chance that these cells become tumors. So we should make sure that we terminally differentiate them into specific types of cells. In addition, we should frequently monitor transplanted cells. That’s one of the reasons I am interested in transplanting stem cell-derived eye cells. Eye is probably the only place in our body where we can easily and frequently monitor the status of transplanted cells.
Thank you for reading today’s blog.
I hope you have a wonderful day.
Cordially,
Fumi Urano