Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are reprogrammed cells with a remarkable capacity for unlimited expansion and differentiation into various cell types. Companies worldwide are actively engaged in developing clinical-grade iPSC lines to address the needs of regenerative medicine, immunotherapies, and precision medicine. However, ensuring the safety and quality of iPSCs is essential, with adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and ethical considerations being paramount. Perinatal cell and tissue banks, such as umbilical cord (UC) blood and tissue banks, are emerging as ideal sources for generating iPSCs due to their unique characteristics and GMP compliance. These banks provide access to immature cells with limited environmental exposure, known family and medical histories of donors, and readily available resources, thereby reducing the time and cost associated with personalized treatment strategies. This study describes the establishment of the first clinical-grade iPSC lines from umbilical cord mesenchymal stromal cells in Brazil. The process involved rigorous quality control measures, safety assessments, and adherence to regulatory standards, resulting in iPSCs with the necessary characteristics for clinical use, including sterility, genomic integrity, and stability. Importantly, the study contributes to the development of a Current Good Manufacturing Practice-compliant iPSC production pipeline in Brazil, using commercially available, chemically defined, and xeno-free products, along with validation by national outsourced laboratories, thereby facilitating the adoption of this technology within the country. The study emphasizes Brazil's contribution to the progress of translational medicine and the promotion of scientific advancements within the field of regenerative and precision medicine.