Stem cells used in leishmaniasis cases
Iranian scientists have successfully treated skin leishmaniasis scars by injecting unipotent stem cells for the first time in Asia and Europe.
Iranian researchers have successfully completed the second phase of project and clinical experiment.
Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease transmitted by the bite of certain species of sand fly, which causes a sore at the bite site that heals in a few months but leaves a permanent unpleasant looking scar. Leishmania currently affects 12 million people in 88 countries.
Iranian scientists had conducted the first phase of the project by rejuvenating skin wrinkles for the first time in Europe and Middle East and for the second time in the world after US.
The third phase and the ultimate goal of the project is to heal sever skin burn scars.
Iran is in the forefront when it comes to stem cell research and has one of the most liberal policies on stem cell research. Stem cells are cells that can transform themselves into many different cell types that make up a body.
The research and clinical center in Iran has already attracted much attention last year by successfully using stem cells to treat rats with spinal cord injuries.
