Tempering hope with realism. Induced pluripotent stem cells in regenerative medicine

Abstract

• Since their discovery in 2007, human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells have been widely championed as the future for regenerative medicine. • By differentiating iPS cells into specialised cells for transplantation, it may be possible to replace diseased cells and “cure” patients of various chronic degenerative conditions, including Parkinson’s disease. • Such putative iPS cell-based therapies would avoid the need to procure transplantable cells from (and in the process, destroy) human embryos, and could be administered to patients without immunosuppressive therapy. • In reality, however, the optimism surrounding iPS cell research has outpaced progress to date and likely emanates, in part, from the “moral panic” surrounding human embryo research. • At such an early stage of development, questions remain about whether iPS cells are strictly equivalent to human embryonic stem cells as a source of transplantable cells. The Heerey Committee considered this point in its recent review of the Commonwealth legislation governing embryo research and human cloning and its Report (tabled in federal Parliament in July 2011) recommended that embryonic stem cell research should continue in Australia. • In addition, there are many ethical issues which will need to be considered when enrolling vulnerable patients in trials of iPS cell therapy given the uncertain benefits and risks involved. • In the rush to embrace iPS cell therapy, there is a real risk that the public may overrate the benefits and expect imminent translation to the clinic.