José Luis Cortés, a prominent researcher, product manager at Lifescience, and member of Proquinorte, is recognized for creating the first human embryonic stem cell lines in Andalusia. Thanks to the innovative use of laser technology, he has achieved a global milestone. In this interview, Cortés details his role in the development of human embryonic stem cells, as well as the promising applications they offer in medical research. He also addresses the ethical and legal aspects of this field, while reflecting on the future impact of research on the understanding of human biology.
What are molecular and cellular biology, and what is their relevance to human embryonic stem cell research?
All scientific research is multidisciplinary. Therefore, to publish results, both molecular and cellular experiments are performed. Molecular experiments provide genetic results, while cellular experiments show how cells behave based on that genetic condition. In the case of human embryonic stem cells, we observe their growth and morphology under a microscope, and verify their undifferentiated and pluripotent genetic nature. Thus, we demonstrate that they can differentiate into any cell and tissue in the body.
What are human embryonic stem cells, and what has been your role in their creation and development?
Human embryonic stem cells are a group of cells found in the preimplantation embryo, when it is at the blastocyst stage, forming the inner cell mass. These cells—before forming the future fetus and baby—are undifferentiated, but can differentiate into all tissues of the body. As a researcher, my role has been to isolate this group of cells, maintain them in an undifferentiated state, and create cell lines that are preserved over time in a Biobank. These lines are available to any researcher who needs them.
What are the most promising applications of human embryonic stem cells in science?
The researchers involved in these studies hope that in the future, cell therapy with these types of cells will be fully guaranteed to be successful. Currently, these cells are an unprecedented tool for creating organoids in the laboratory, which simulate organs and allow us to study disease models in vitro. However, this is not yet possible, as much remains to be learned about possible patient rejection of these cells or the risk of tumor development.
The concept of human embryonic stem cells raises ethical and moral debates. Are there laws that limit or hinder research into the development of these cells?
Yes. The isolation of the inner cell mass of a blastocyst means that it will not be used for reproductive purposes. The use of these blastocysts is regulated by Law 14/2006 on Assisted Reproduction and Law 14/2007 on Biomedical Research.
Thus, researchers must present a research project that passes through various scientific and ethics committees for approval and to receive a research grant. Essentially, it's a highly regulated process governed by international scientific research laws.
