In the early 2000s, there was great expectation that stem cells could be the solution for treating incurable diseases and restoring tissues and organs lost accidentally or through degeneration. This view has changed over time, and we now understand stem cells’ potential and limitations.

In Brazil, several research groups that study different aspects of stem cells, from biology to potential therapeutic use, are organized into networks of research laboratories, such as FAPESP CEPIDs and CNPq INCTs. Those networks promote national and international interactions and collaborations necessary to advance basic stem cell research and application.

With the FAPESP / May Rubião SPSAS on Stem Cell Biology, we intend to make a qualitative leap in bringing together researchers on the theme and promoting the topic among graduate students and young researchers. We intend to encourage more researchers in the area of stem cells so that Brazil advances in the national and international scientific scenario, especially seeking to close the gap between fundamental and applied research focused on stem cell therapy and tissue bioengineering.

The partnership that we established with the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) to carry out the SPSAS on Stem Cell Biology, ending the course with an international symposium, shows that Brazil has great potential for development in the field.