Current status of stem cell research: An editorial

The purpose of this editorial is to highlight recent developments in molecular biology tools and techniques in stem cell research and their applications to human diseases. Recent advancements in stem cell research and regenerative medicine are offering immense hope to cure human diseases and injuries, such as cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and traumatic brain injuries. In the last three decades, especially in the last decade, major breakthroughs have been seen in the conversion of adult stem cells into induced pluripotent stem cells, which in turn has led the way to developing stem cell therapies for human diseases. This article summarizes contributions of research into stem cell therapies.