Cultivating regenerative medicine innovation in China.

AIM: While China has become a significant contributor and prolific publisher in regenerative medicine, its role in the field is not well understood. We analyze how capacity in regenerative medicine was built in China to identify some of its main strengths and challenges.

MATERIALS & METHODS: This case study of regenerative medicine in China is primarily based on interviews with experts in China, including researchers, policy makers, clinicians, representatives of firms and regulators.

RESULTS: Our analysis shows that diverse groups are active in this field in China. Leading research groups are contributing extensively to international peer-reviewed journals. Strong governmental support and recruitment of highly trained Chinese scientists from abroad has made it possible for China to rapidly build up capacity in regenerative medicine. However, some hospitals in China are offering stem cell therapies with limited scientific evidence supporting their efficacy/safety, and international skepticism of medical research in China presents a challenge to the development of the field.

CONCLUSION: China has been able to catapult itself into the forefront of regenerative medicine but needs to address current regulatory challenges in order to secure its position in this emerging field.