Prospective analysis of regenerative capacity

These studies suggest that biomarkers and functional assays may be helpful to identify, a priori, cells and recipients with a higher capacity for tissue regeneration. But instead of retrospective identification of advantageous biomarker profiles, the ultimate goal is prospective identification of patients likely to respond to cell therapy. With evidence of variability in autologous  stem cell therapeutic potency and intrinsic regenerative potential, and multiple readily identifiable markers associated with improved outcomes, there is opportunity to develop potency assays to guide trial design and patient enrollment. Indeed, this was a priority identified by the European Committee for Advanced Therapies for cell-based therapies targeting cardiac repair. Conversely, identification of patients with poor regenerative capacity could drive development of novel approaches to ameliorate this deficiency.