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"AKU-CRM is proud to highlight the transformative impact stem cell research is having on medical science. We are building a team of pioneering researchers and fostering solid collaborations with leading clinicians across AKU and renowned​ scientists worldwide. These partnerships ensure that our work remains clinically relevant and focuses on developing innovative, cell-based treatments for once-incurable diseases, including complex conditions like cancer, neurological diseases, blood disorders, heart disorders, and vision impairments. Together, we are driving breakthroughs that push the boundaries of science, revolutionizing healthcare and offering new hope to patients, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Pakistan, where affordable access to advanced care is crucial."

Dr Syed Ather Enam, Professor & Director 

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"I specialize in developing targeted therapies for leukaemia, with a focus on treatment-resistant forms. My research led to the development of the PF-114 drug, now in phase III clinical trials. At AKU-CRM, I focus on cell and peptide therapies for leukemia, leukemic stem cells and gene-editing treatments for beta-thalassemia and sickle cell anemia. I encourage young researchers to pursue careers in applied sciences, particularly in stem cells and regenerative medicine, as these fields hold immense potential to revolutionize patient care​."​​

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"I am currently developing advanced protocols to generate a shelf-stable, transfusion-ready Red Blood Cells (RBC) products. This research offers new therapeutic options for a variety of patients, including those ​suffering from anemia, sickle cell disease, bleeding disorders like hemophilia, and cancer patients in need of blood transfusions. Stem cell research is at the forefront of medical innovation, offering endless opportunities for discovery and creativity. I urge young researchers to harness their passion to drive advancements that can transform healthcare and improve lives. ​"​

Dr ​​Hammad Hassan, Assistant Professor​​​​​​​

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“Our stem cell research focuses on two critical areas: developing targeted treatments for cancer and advancing regenerative medicinee. By harnessing the power of stem cells, we aim to create therapies that combat cancer stem cells and enable tissue and organ regeneration, offering hope for healing and improving the quality of life for countless individuals.​ I would like to encourage young innovators and passionate researchers to join us in this​ mission, as collaboration and fresh ideas are key to accelerating progress.”​

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"​Stem cell research holds th​e key to revolutionizing treatment for genetic disorders. My work focuses on advancing gene therapy and genome editing techniques to correct genetic mutations at their source. By engineering therapeutic proteins and gene constructs, we aim to offer real hope for curing diseases that currently have no solution, inspiring the next generation of scientists to push the boundaries of medicine." ​

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"​​My research focuses on nanomedicine, especially exploring the therapeutic potential of stem cell-isolated exosomes​ against cancer, neurodegenerative and other diseases. At AKU-CRM, my work aims to advance the use of exosomes and liposomes as drug delivery vehicles for novel therapies. To young researchers, I emphasize that nanomedicine is a dynamic​​ and rapidly advancing field, offering vast opportunities for innov​ation. The next generation has a critical role to play in pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery.​"                                                                        ​​​    ​                              Dr Fawad Ur Rehman, Assistant Professor​​​​​​

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"My research focuses on uncovering the genetic causes of neurodevelopmental disorders using tools like NGS, iPSCs and brain organoids to unravel mechanisms of novel candidate genes and develop targeted treatments. This work offers hope for personalized therapies, leading to earlier diagnoses and new treatment options for individuals and families affected by conditions that currently lack effective solutions. I would also like to encourage ​young researchers to pursue the field of stem​ cell science and play their roles in driving the next wave of discoveries and breakthroughs that benefit humanity.​"​

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"Stem cell-based therapies hold tremendous potential in treating visual impairments such as retinal degenerative diseases and optic neuropathies, which leads to irreversible vision loss. At CRM, our team is currently working on developing protocols to produce photoreceptors and retinal ganglion cells for recon​necting the visual circuit. I encourage the next generation of scientists to engage with stem cell research, your contributions can change the lives. ​​" 

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