![]() Cells of this stage are termed “embryonic stem cells” and are obtained by isolation from the inner cell mass of the blastocyst in a process that involves the destruction of the forming embryo. Following that cells undergo subsequent divisions until reaching the blastocyst stage where they lose their totipotency property and assume a pluripotent identity where cells are only capable of differentiating into every embryonic germ layer (ectoderm, mesoderm and endoderm). This unique property is brief and starts with the fertilization of the ovum and ends when the embryo reaches the four to eight cells stage. These cells are capable of developing into a complete embryo while forming the extra-embryonic tissue at the same time. ![]() The most basic and undeveloped of stem cells are the totipotent stem cells. However, it should be noted that stem cells are not homogeneous, but rather exist in a developmental hierarchy ( 10). All three of them share the significant property of self-renewal in addition to a unique ability to differentiate. There are mainly three types of stem cells. The limitations of these treatments and ongoing challenges in the field are also discussed while shedding light on the ethical and regulatory challenges in translating autologous stem cell-based interventions, into safe and effective therapies. In this review, the advances and challenges for the development of stem-cell-based therapies are described, with focus on the use of stem cells in dentistry in addition to the advances reached in regenerative treatment modalities in several diseases. To date, the most established stem cell treatment is bone marrow transplants to treat blood and immune system disorders ( 1, 6, 7). However, in spite of the increased amount of publications reporting successful cases of stem cell-based therapies, a major number of clinical trials have not yet acquired full regulatory approvals for validation as stem cell therapies. Also, a major improvement in eyesight of patients suffering from macular degeneration was reported after transplantation of patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) that were induced to differentiate into pigment epithelial cells of the retina ( 5). For example, a case of Epidermolysis Bullosa manifested signs of skin recovery after treatment with keratinocyte cultures of epidermal stem cells ( 4). Some of these trials resulted in remarkable impact on various diseases ( 3). In fact, the past few years witnessed, a rather exponential advancement in clinical trials revolving around stem cell-based therapies. Recent research reporting successful translation of stem cell therapies to patients have enriched the hope that such regenerative strategies may one day become a treatment for a wide range of vexing diseases ( 2). Fortunately, the prospect of regenerative medicine as an alternative to conventional drug-based therapies is becoming a tangible reality by the day owing to the vigorous commitment of the research communities in studying the potential applications across a wide range of diseases like neurodegenerative diseases and diabetes, among many others ( 1). Regenerative medicine is rapidly becoming the next big thing in health care with the particular aim of repairing and possibly replacing diseased cells, tissues or organs and eventually retrieving normal function. Such an advanced technology offers endless possibilities for transformative and potentially curative treatments for some of humanities most life threatening diseases. Cell-based therapy as a modality of regenerative medicine is considered one of the most promising disciplines in the fields of modern science & medicine.
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