Stem Cells Research History

Stem cell research has a long and complex history that spans several decades.

1981: Scientists first isolated and cultured embryonic stem cells from mice, providing a model system for studying the properties and potential uses of stem cells.

1997: Researchers in the US and UK announced the successful isolation and culture of human embryonic stem cells, sparking a new era of stem cell research.

2006: Scientists discovered a way to generate induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from adult cells using a process called reprogramming, which avoids the ethical concerns associated with the use of embryonic stem cells.

2015: Scientists reported the successful use of iPSCs to generate insulin-producing cells, opening up new avenues for the treatment of diabetes.

2012: Researchers successfully used iPSCs to create a functional retina, providing a potential model for the development of new treatments for blindness.

2010: The first clinical trial of a stem cell therapy was conducted in the US, testing the safety and efficacy of a treatment for spinal cord injury.

2020: Researchers made significant strides in using stem cells for COVID19 treatments and vaccines.