Impressions from the international stem cell symposium

Abstract

The importance of endogenous stem cells in homeostasis and repair of various tissues is well recognized. However, their use as therapeutic tools in most potential regenerative medicine applications is still at an early stage. The first International Stem Cell Conference was organized by Ondokus Mayis University in Samsun, Turkey to bring Turkish and international researchers together to discuss recent developments, ongoing challenges, and potential solutions. The meeting engaged not only established investigators but many trainees in diverse aspects of stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. The enthusiasm expressed and multidisciplinary approaches described bode well for the future of basic science and translational medicine. © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2012. All rights reserved.