Stem cell research is part of research that studies the properties of stem cells and their possible use in medicine. Several recent studies conclude that embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can replace damaged cells. We don’t use these cells, and still, it’s a gray area, so there is no need to discuss this thing.

The ability to generate patient-specific stem cells is also attractive for cell therapy. However, very few stem cell treatments have been proven effective and safe.

In this article, we will find out the present scenario of stem cell research in India. 

Why is there Such an Interest in Stem Cell-based Therapy?

Stem cells have been studied in detail in regenerative medicine. Scientists are hoping that stem cell studies can help:

• Generate healthy cells to replace damaged cells affected by the disease– Stem cells can become specific cells that can be used in people to repair and regenerate tissues that have been affected by the disease. Researchers continue to gain knowledge on stem cells and their applications in medicine.
• Increase understanding of how disease occurs– By watching stem cells develop into bones, nerves, muscles, tissues, and other organs, researchers may better recognize how diseases and conditions begin.
• Test new drugs for effectiveness and safety– Before using the investigational drug in humans, scientists can use some types of stem cells to test the drugs for quality and safety. For the testing of new medicines to be correct, the cells must be programmed to acquire properties of the type of cells selected by the drugs.
  

Turning Point of Stem Cell Research

In 2006, Shinya Yamanaka, a Japanese scientist, achieved s scientific discovery in stem cell research by generating cells with identical properties and genetic profiles to embryonic stem cells. These cells were called induced pluripotent stem cells, and this cell has transformed the field of stem cell research ever since.

An essential feature of these cells is their ability to differentiate into any of the germ layers, just like ESCs. The growth of iPSCs technology has built a creative way to identify and treat disease. 

Are There Any Guidelines Governing Stem Cell Research in India?

1. Since 2007, there have been guidelines accessible to direct researchers and clinicians working in the field of stem cell research in India. They have to work in compliance with these guidelines.
2. The Government of India is committed to stem cell therapies that are safe. The guidelines of stem cell research and treatment in 2007 were a progression towards this commitment, which were updated after public opinion and released as National Guidelines for stem cell research (SCR).
3. These were further revised by incorporating the recent advances in the field, synchronized with the existing rules and regulations in the country, and released by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare as NGSCR 2017 in October 2017.

Primary research on all types of stem cells is essential to analyze the possibilities of clinical practice using stem cells. Therefore, national agencies are very active in promoting and supporting this field. Although there are several challenges to the current stem cell research, there is an awareness among the clinicians and scientists in the country about stem cell-based therapies, and the process is gathering momentum.

Stem Cell Care India is pioneering stem cell care treatment in India while using the latest technologies available through cutting-edge research being conducted at each moment. As one of the leading stem cell institutes in India, we have a vast network of hospitals and medical professionals that will deliver the highest quality of treatment that every patient deserves.