The evolution of iPSC-based cell therapy across autologous and allogeneic pathways.

Abstract

Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based treatments have revolutionized regenerative medicine, yielding patient-specific renewable cells without raising ethical concerns related to the use of embryonic stem cells. In two decades, iPSC therapies have advanced from basic research to clinical trials and official approvals. Early research focused on autologous transplantation, exemplified by the 2014 retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) graft. Yet, personalized production obstacles prompted allogeneic schemes relying on HLA cell banks and immunomodified donor cells. Meanwhile, innovations such as chemical reprogramming have revitalized autologous strategies. Today, autologous and allogeneic iPSC therapies complement each other for distinct clinical demands. This review traces key field milestones and analyzes prospects and hurdles for next-generation iPSC therapies.