Dr Pankaj Bablani

The Journey of Human Stem Cells: Biology, Isolation, and Therapeutic Translation

Human stem cells possess two defining properties—self-renewal and differentiation—that underpin their growing role in regenerative medicine. This review summarises the biology, classification, major types, and principal sources of human stem cells, with emphasis on mesenchymal, haematopoietic, neural, embryonic, and induced pluripotent stem cells. It outlines key harvesting and culture approaches, mechanisms of tissue repair, including cell replacement, paracrine signalling, and immunomodulation, and their applications in tissue engineering and regenerative therapy. Established and emerging clinical uses, together with ethical, safety, regulatory, and manufacturing challenges, are discussed. Advances in organoids, 3D bioprinting, gene editing, exosome therapy, and personalised cell-based medicine highlight the expanding therapeutic potential of stem cells.