Clinically relevant aspects of stem cell technologies: current state of play

The emergence of stem cell technologies and their potential applications in regenerative medicine have generated immense interest by both the lay public and clinicians. Unproven and unregulated cell‐based therapies are commercially available both in Australia and internationally, and reports of patient uptake (stem cell tourism) and associated morbidity are increasingly frequent. Clinicians in all fields will require an enhanced understanding of the basic science principles and current state of play in regenerative medicine in order to effectively counsel patients regarding these therapies in the setting of both commercial ventures and clinical trials. This review aims to concisely highlight the key clinically pertinent features of these trials and briefly discuss the specific therapeutic potential, mechanism of action and risks associated with these variables.