15^th World Heart Congress

Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Therapy for Heart Disease

Regenerative medicine and stem cell therapy offer promising solutions for treating heart disease by repairing damaged heart tissue and restoring function. Unlike traditional treatments that manage symptoms, these approaches aim to regenerate heart muscle and improve overall cardiac health. Stem cell therapy involves using stem cells—typically derived from bone marrow, umbilical cord blood, or induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)—to repair injured heart tissue. When introduced into the heart, these cells can stimulate tissue regeneration, reduce inflammation, and promote new blood vessel growth (angiogenesis). Research has shown potential benefits for conditions such as heart failure, myocardial infarction (heart attack), and cardiomyopathies. Another innovative approach in regenerative medicine is tissue engineering, where bioengineered cardiac patches and 3D-printed heart tissues help replace damaged areas. Gene therapy is also being explored to enhance the heart’s ability to repair itself by activating specific regenerative pathways. While clinical trials have demonstrated promising results, challenges such as cell survival, immune response, and integration into heart tissue remain. However, with ongoing research and technological advancements, regenerative medicine and stem cell therapy have the potential to transform cardiovascular treatment, offering hope for patients with severe or irreversible heart disease.