Advances in Stem Cell Engineering and Differentiation: State-of-the-Art Methods and Emerging Research

TOPICAL COLLECTIONS

Guest Editor

Akhilesh Prajapati

Department of Life Science, Biotechnology Division, GSFC University, Vadodara-391750, Gujarat, India

Dr. Akhilesh Prajapati is a distinguished researcher and academician with expertise in biochemistry, biotechnology, cancer stem cells, and metabolism at GSFC University, Vadodara, India. He holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and has several years of experience in teaching and research, focusing on endocrine cancer, stem cell biology, and precision medicine. Currently, Dr. Prajapati is engaged in cutting-edge research on chemo-resistance mechanisms in prostate cancer, exploring metabolic vulnerabilities and mitochondrial functions using CRISPR/Cas9 and exosome-mediated delivery tools. His work extends to breast cancer stem cell characterization and targeting ferroptosis and autophagy as therapeutic modalities. He has recently received research grant from GSBTM, Government of Gujarat, to investigate mitochondrial OXPHOS as a target to overcome androgen resistance in castration-resistant prostate cancer. Dr. Prajapati has extensive expertise in stem cell culture, isolation, and characterization, utilizing advanced techniques such as flow cytometry, spheroid formation assays, and single-cell RNA sequencing. His research contributions have been recognized through publications in high-impact journals, invited talks, and peer-reviewing for international journals. As a faculty member and researcher, he is actively involved in mentoring students and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations in cancer biology, regenerative medicine, and pharmacological interventions. His contributions to stem cell research and therapeutic advancements align with his broader goal of translating fundamental discoveries into clinical applications for precision oncology and regenerative medicine. Dr. Prajapati’s expertise in stem cell collection methods and innovative approaches in cancer research make him a valuable contributor to JOVE’s scientific community.

Collection Overview

Stem cell engineering and differentiation are fundamental to regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and cell-based therapies. Recent advances have refined methodologies for controlling stem cell fate and led to groundbreaking discoveries that enhance their therapeutic potential. However, challenges such as variability in differentiation efficiency, scalability, and functional integration remain critical obstacles.

This collection will highlight diverse methodologies and emerging research findings that drive progress in stem cell engineering. Methodological contributions will include, but are not limited to, novel biomaterials, gene-editing techniques (CRISPR/Cas9), microfluidic systems, bioreactors, 3D culture models, and omics-driven differentiation protocols.

At the same time, original research articles will showcase key discoveries in stem cell biology, novel differentiation strategies, mechanistic insights into cellular reprogramming, functional characterization of stem-cell-derived tissues, and translational studies demonstrating clinical or industrial applications.

By integrating both methodological advancements and research breakthroughs, this collection aims to provide a comprehensive perspective on the field. Researchers will gain access to refined experimental protocols as well as critical insights into stem cell function, optimization, and application. Overall, this collection will foster interdisciplinary collaborations, accelerate translational efforts, and advance the clinical implementation of stem cell-based therapies.