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Mavaei M, Farokhi S, Yousefi MH, Fakouri A, Shadab A, Abdolmohammadi MH, Fallahian F, Afkhami H. Exploring two tumor treatment strategies: effectiveness of ribosome inactivating proteins and mesenchymal stem cells/MSC derived extracellular vesicles in cancer treatment. Front Oncol 2025; 15:1533065. [PMID: 40444089 PMCID: PMC12120475 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2025.1533065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2025] [Indexed: 06/02/2025] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a complex and heterogeneous disease that often requires multifaceted treatment strategies to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes. Given the limitations of single-agent therapies, particularly in the face of intricate biological signaling networks and treatment resistance, there is a growing need for combinatory approaches. This article presents a novel hypothesis: the simultaneous use of ribosome-inactivating proteins (RIPs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) or MSC-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) in cancer treatment. RIPs, with their potent cytotoxic properties, can target tumor cells effectively, while MSCs, known for their tumor-homing abilities and regenerative potential, can serve as delivery vehicles, potentially enhancing the targeting precision and reducing the systemic toxicity of RIPs. This hypothesis explores the synergistic potential of combining these two therapeutic modalities, leveraging the advantages of both techniques to create a more effective cancer treatment strategy. By combining RIPs' ability to inhibit protein synthesis with MSCs or MSC-derived EVs' capability to modulate the tumor microenvironment and deliver therapeutic agents. This approach offers a promising avenue for overcoming cancer's inherent complexity. However, challenges remain, such as optimizing dosing protocols, addressing safety concerns, and ensuring efficient drug delivery. Future research and clinical trials are necessary to validate this combination as a viable cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryamosadat Mavaei
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Simin Farokhi
- Student Research Committee, USERN Office, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hasan Yousefi
- Student Research Committee, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Medicine, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Arshia Fakouri
- Student Research Committee, USERN Office, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Alireza Shadab
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Iran University of Medical Sciences, Deputy of Health, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Faranak Fallahian
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Hamed Afkhami
- Student Research Committee, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
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Siu WS, Ma H, Leung PC. Review on Current Advancements in Facilitation of Burn Wound Healing. Bioengineering (Basel) 2025; 12:428. [PMID: 40281787 PMCID: PMC12024970 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering12040428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2025] [Revised: 04/07/2025] [Accepted: 04/17/2025] [Indexed: 04/29/2025] Open
Abstract
Burns are common injuries, but their treatment remains challenging due to the complex nature of the wound healing process. Burn wounds are classified into different categories based on their size and depth. Treatment modalities vary significantly across these categories, primarily focusing on the inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling phases of burn wound healing. This review summarizes current research on various approaches to enhance burn wound recovery, including advancements in wound dressings, the use of platelet-rich plasma, stem cells, their soluble factors primarily in the form of secretomes or extracellular vesicles, and nano-technologies. Additionally, advancements in modernized traditional medicine are discussed to give a new aspect for burn wound healing. This review also summarizes the barriers in translating bench research to clinical practice in burn wound treatment methods. For an effective translation, researchers and industrial partners should work more closely, while regulatory bodies should streamline the approval procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wing Sum Siu
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China; (H.M.); (P.C.L.)
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Kananivand M, Nouri F, Yousefi MH, Pajouhi A, Ghorbani H, Afkhami H, Razavi ZS. Mesenchymal stem cells and their exosomes: a novel approach to skin regeneration via signaling pathways activation. J Mol Histol 2025; 56:132. [PMID: 40208456 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-025-10394-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2025] [Indexed: 04/11/2025]
Abstract
Accelerating wound healing is a crucial objective in surgical and regenerative medicine. The wound healing process involves three key stages: inflammation, cell proliferation, and tissue repair. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have demonstrated significant therapeutic potential in promoting tissue regeneration, particularly by enhancing epidermal cell migration and proliferation. However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying MSC-mediated wound healing remain unclear. This review highlights the pivotal role of MSCs and their exosomes in wound repair, with a specific focus on critical signaling pathways, including PI3K/Akt, WNT/β-catenin, Notch, and MAPK. These pathways regulate essential cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and angiogenesis. Moreover, in vitro and in vivo studies reveal that MSCs accelerate wound closure, enhance collagen deposition, and modulate immune responses, contributing to improved tissue regeneration. Understanding these mechanisms provides valuable insights into MSC-based therapeutic strategies for enhancing wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Kananivand
- Medical Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Nouri
- Department of Biology, School of Basic Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University (SRBIAU), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hasan Yousefi
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Medicine, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Ali Pajouhi
- Student Research Committee, USERN Office, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Hakimeah Ghorbani
- Department of Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tabriz University of Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamed Afkhami
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran.
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran.
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran.
- Student Research Committee, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran.
| | - Zahra Sadat Razavi
- Physiology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Kamrani S, Naseramini R, Khani P, Razavi ZS, Afkhami H, Atashzar MR, Nasri F, Alavimanesh S, Saeidi F, Ronaghi H. Mesenchymal stromal cells in bone marrow niche of patients with multiple myeloma: a double-edged sword. Cancer Cell Int 2025; 25:117. [PMID: 40140850 PMCID: PMC11948648 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-025-03741-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2025] [Indexed: 03/28/2025] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematological malignancy defined by the abnormal proliferation and accumulation of plasma cells (PC) within the bone marrow (BM). While multiple myeloma impacts the bone, it is not classified as a primary bone cancer. The bone marrow microenvironment significantly influences the progression of myeloma and its treatment response. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) in this environment engage with myeloma cells and other bone marrow components via direct contact and the secretion of soluble factors. This review examines the established roles of MSCs in multiple facets of MM pathology, encompassing their pro-inflammatory functions, contributions to tumor epigenetics, effects on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), influence on reprogramming, chemotherapy resistance, and senescence. This review investigates the role of MSCs in the development and progression of MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina Kamrani
- Department of Orthopedic, Faculty of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Reza Naseramini
- Department of Orthopedic, Faculty of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Pouria Khani
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Sadat Razavi
- Physiology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Afkhami
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Atashzar
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Farzad Nasri
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sajad Alavimanesh
- Student Research Committee, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Farzane Saeidi
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hossein Ronaghi
- Department of Orthopedic, Faculty of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
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Yarahmadi A, Dorri Giv M, Hosseininejad R, Rezaie A, Mohammadi N, Afkhami H, Farokhi A. Mesenchymal stem cells and their extracellular vesicle therapy for neurological disorders: traumatic brain injury and beyond. Front Neurol 2025; 16:1472679. [PMID: 39974358 PMCID: PMC11835705 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2025.1472679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2025] [Indexed: 02/21/2025] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a complex condition involving mechanisms that lead to brain dysfunction and nerve damage, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality globally. Affecting ~50 million people annually, TBI's impact includes a high death rate, exceeding that of heart disease and cancer. Complications arising from TBI encompass concussion, cerebral hemorrhage, tumors, encephalitis, delayed apoptosis, and necrosis. Current treatment methods, such as pharmacotherapy with dihydropyridines, high-pressure oxygen therapy, behavioral therapy, and non-invasive brain stimulation, have shown limited efficacy. A comprehensive understanding of vascular components is essential for developing new treatments to improve blood vessel-related brain damage. Recently, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown promising results in repairing and mitigating brain damage. Studies indicate that MSCs can promote neurogenesis and angiogenesis through various mechanisms, including releasing bioactive molecules and extracellular vesicles (EVs), which help reduce neuroinflammation. In research, the distinctive characteristics of MSCs have positioned them as highly desirable cell sources. Extensive investigations have been conducted on the regulatory properties of MSCs and their manipulation, tagging, and transportation techniques for brain-related applications. This review explores the progress and prospects of MSC therapy in TBI, focusing on mechanisms of action, therapeutic benefits, and the challenges and potential limitations of using MSCs in treating neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aref Yarahmadi
- Department of Biology, Khorramabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Dorri Giv
- Nuclear Medicine Research Center, Ghaem Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Reza Hosseininejad
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azin Rezaie
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Narges Mohammadi
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences and Technologies, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hamed Afkhami
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arastoo Farokhi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Imam Reza Hospital, Kermanshah, Iran
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Sheikhi K, Ghaderi S, Firouzi H, Rahimibarghani S, Shabani E, Afkhami H, Yarahmadi A. Recent advances in mesenchymal stem cell therapy for multiple sclerosis: clinical applications and challenges. Front Cell Dev Biol 2025; 13:1517369. [PMID: 39963155 PMCID: PMC11830822 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2025.1517369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2025] [Indexed: 02/20/2025] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system (CNS), is characterized by inflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration, leading to diverse clinical manifestations such as fatigue, sensory impairment, and cognitive dysfunction. Current pharmacological treatments primarily target immune modulation but fail to arrest disease progression or entirely reverse CNS damage. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy offers a promising alternative, leveraging its immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, and regenerative capabilities. This review provides an in-depth analysis of MSC mechanisms of action, including immune system regulation, promotion of remyelination, and neuroregeneration. It examines preclinical studies and clinical trials evaluating the efficacy, safety, and limitations of MSC therapy in various MS phenotypes. Special attention is given to challenges such as delivery routes, dosing regimens, and integrating MSCs with conventional therapies. By highlighting advancements and ongoing challenges, this review underscores the potential of MSCs to revolutionize MS treatment, paving the way for personalized and combinatory therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamran Sheikhi
- Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Kurdistan, Iran
| | | | - Hassan Firouzi
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Sari Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sari, Iran
| | - Sarvenaz Rahimibarghani
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Shabani
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Afkhami
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aref Yarahmadi
- Department of Biology, Khorramabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Khorramabad, Iran
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Razavi ZS, Aliniay Sharafshadehi S, Yousefi MH, Javaheri F, Rahimi Barghani MR, Afkhami H, Heidari F. Application of novel strategies in chronic wound management with focusing on pressure ulcers: new perspective. Arch Dermatol Res 2025; 317:320. [PMID: 39888392 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-024-03790-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2024] [Revised: 12/27/2024] [Accepted: 12/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2025]
Abstract
Invading blood cells, extracellular tissue, and soluble mediators all play important roles in the wound-healing process. There is a substantial global burden of disease and mortality attributable to skin defects that do not heal. About 1% to 2% of the population in industrialized nations suffers from chronic wounds that don't heal, despite healthcare breakthroughs; this condition is very costly, costing about $25 billion each year in the US alone. Amputation, infection (affecting as many as 25% of chronic wounds), sepsis, and dermal replacements are all consequences of conventional therapeutic approaches like growth factor therapy and diabetic foot ulcers account for 85% of lower limb amputations. Despite these obstacles, scientists are constantly looking for new ways to speed healing and close wounds. The unique immunomodulatory capabilities and multipotency of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have made them a potential therapeutic choice in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Animal models of wound healing have shown that MSCs can speed up the process by as much as 40% through enhancing angiogenesis, modulating inflammation, and promoting fibroblast migration. Clinical trials provide more evidence of their effectiveness; for instance, one RCT found that, after 12 weeks, patients treated with MSCs had a 72% smaller wound size than those in the control group. This review offers a thorough examination of MSCs by combining the latest research with preclinical evidence. Highlighting their potential to transform treatment paradigms, it delves into their biological properties, how they work during regeneration and healing, and therapeutic usefulness in controlling chronic wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Sadat Razavi
- Physiology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahrzad Aliniay Sharafshadehi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hasan Yousefi
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Medicine, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Javaheri
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | | | - Hamed Afkhami
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran.
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran.
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Fatemeh Heidari
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran.
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran.
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Teymouri S, Yousefi MH, Heidari S, Farokhi S, Afkhami H, Kashfi M. Beyond antibiotics: mesenchymal stem cells and bacteriophages-new approaches to combat bacterial resistance in wound infections. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 52:64. [PMID: 39699690 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-10163-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2024] [Accepted: 12/09/2024] [Indexed: 12/20/2024]
Abstract
Wound management is a major global health problem. With the rising incidence of diabetic wounds, accidents, and other injuries, the demand for prompt wound treatment has become increasingly critical. Millions of people suffer from serious, large wounds resulting from major accidents, surgeries, and wars. These wounds require considerable time to heal and are susceptible to infection. Furthermore, chronic wounds, particularly in elderly and diabetic patients, often require frequent medical interventions to prevent complications. Consequently, wound management imposes a significant economic burden worldwide. The complications arising from wound infections can vary from localized issues to systemic effects. The most severe local complication of wound infection is the non-healing, which results from the disruption of the wound-healing process. This often leads to significant pain, discomfort, and psychological trauma for the patient. Systemic complications may include cellulitis, osteomyelitis, and septicemia. Mesenchymal stem cells are characterized by their high capacity for division, making them suitable candidates for the treatment of tissue damage. Additionally, they produce antimicrobial peptides and various cytokines, which enhance their antimicrobial activity. Evidence shows that phages are effective in treating wound-related infections, and phage therapy has proven to be highly effective for patients when administered correctly. The purpose of this article is to explore the use of bacteriophages and mesenchymal stem cells in wound healing and infection management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samane Teymouri
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hasan Yousefi
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Medicine, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | | | - Simin Farokhi
- Student Research Committee, USERN Office, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Hamed Afkhami
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran.
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran.
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mojtaba Kashfi
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran.
- Fellowship in Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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