Unlike traditional treatments that mainly manage symptoms, regenerative medicine seeks to restore the natural function of organs and tissues. This field employs cutting-edge technologies such as cell therapy (especially with stem cells), tissue engineering, gene therapy, and even bioprinting.
For example, damaged heart muscle caused by a heart attack can be regenerated, or cartilage tissue can be restored in patients suffering from arthritis. This approach also shows great promise in treating neurological disorders, cancers, blood diseases, and severe burns.
Four new stem cell centers to be established in Iran
The Headquarters for Biotechnology, Health, and Medical Technologies at the Vice Presidency for Science, Technology, and Knowledge-Based Economy has announced plans to establish four comprehensive stem cell centers. These centers will enhance Iran’s capacity for research and production of medical and cell-based products. Currently, one such center operates under the supervision of this headquarters.
Cell and virus therapy: Innovative solutions for regeneration and cancer treatment
Stem cell and virus therapy are among the most promising research areas in modern medicine, offering potential cures for hard-to-treat and complex diseases. In virus therapy, genetically modified viruses are used to deliver therapeutic genes into stem cells. These modified stem cells are then injected into the body, where they naturally target damaged tissues or tumors. This combination leads to more precise and effective treatments with fewer side effects, as viruses act purposefully and stem cells aid in tissue regeneration.
Iranian cell therapy product approved for market
Recently, Iran’s Food and Drug Organization approved a domestically developed cell therapy product for sale. This product is used to treat Graft-versus-Host Disease (GVHD), a serious and potentially fatal complication following organ transplantation. GVHD occurs when immune cells from the transplanted organ attack the recipient’s body, jeopardizing the success of the transplant.
Clinical trials for cancer underway in Iran
Iran currently ranks 12th globally in terms of having gene and cell therapy products, with a plan to reach 5th place by the end of the 7th Development Plan. Clinical trials for stomach cancer (in Mashhad) and blood cancer (in Tehran) are already underway, typically lasting 2–3 years. Additionally, several virus therapy products are in Phase I clinical trials, aiming to treat ovarian, prostate, and bladder cancers. These are awaiting approval from Iran’s Food and Drug Organization.
Iran aims to join top 10 countries in regenerative medicine
The program also includes plans to transfer technology of at least two products to neighboring countries and improve Iran’s ranking to 8th among the world’s top 10 nations in regenerative medicine. Economically, the initiative aims to develop at least 15 new products that will generate foreign revenue for Iran.
