title: Translating stem cell research to the clinic: a primer on translational considerations for your first stem cell protocol.
abstract: Over the last two decades, a new therapeutic paradigm has emerged which has changed the way debilitating diseases may be treated in the future. Instead of using small-molecule drugs and devices to ameliorate the symptoms of disease, clinicians may harness the therapeutic power of cells to regenerate and cure diseases which currently represent a major unmet medical need. Advancements in the scientific knowledge of stem cell biology, along with highly encouraging preclinical proof-of-concept studies, in the last several years have served as a launch pad for testing such therapeutics in humans with life-threatening diseases. However, translating basic research findings into human therapy has not been straightforward and has presented many scientific, clinical, and regulatory challenges for scientists and clinicians. In this article, we provide a guidance framework for investigators for the design of early-phase clinical studies using stem cell-based therapeutics. Furthermore, important trial parameters and design features which must be considered before regulatory submission of such studies are highlighted.
authors: Regenerative Medicine Institute, National University of Ireland, Biosciences Building, Galway, Ireland. timothy.obrien@nuigalway.ie.
authors: Timothy
authors: T
authors: O'Brien
authors: Regenerative Medicine Institute, National University of Ireland, Biosciences Building, Galway, Ireland.
authors: Michael
authors: M
authors: Creane
authors: Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, 55905, MN, USA.
authors: Anthony J
authors: AJ
authors: Windebank
authors: Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, 55905, MN, USA.
authors: Andre
authors: A
authors: Terzic
authors: Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Lab Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, 55905, MN, USA.
authors: Allan B
authors: AB
authors: Dietz
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D057905:Stem Cell Research; D057170:Translational Research, Biomedical / Q000379:methods*