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World J Stem Cells. Sep 26, 2026; 18(9): 116437
Published online Sep 26, 2026. doi: 10.4252/wjsc.116437
Published online Sep 26, 2026. doi: 10.4252/wjsc.116437
Protocol defines product: Navigating function, safety and translation of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived mesenchymal stem cells
Chee-Yin Wong, ALPS Group Inc., Kuala Lumpur 50400, Malaysia
Chee-Yin Wong, Celestialab Sdn. Bhd., Kuala Lumpur 50400, Malaysia
Author contributions: Wong CY conceived the idea, performed the literature review, wrote and critically revised the editorial, and approved the final version for publication.
AI contribution statement: During the preparation of this work, the author used Google Gemini to improve English expression, readability, and structural clarity. After using this tool/service, the author reviewed and edited the content as needed and takes full responsibility for the publication's content.
Conflict-of-interest statement: The author reports no relevant conflicts of interest for this article.
Corresponding author: Chee-Yin Wong, PhD, ALPS Group Inc., The ICON, East Wing Tower, Level 18-01 & 18-02, No. 1 Jalan 1/68F, Off Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur 50400, Malaysia. wongcy@celestialab.com
Received: November 12, 2025
Revised: December 28, 2025
Accepted: February 3, 2026
Published online: September 26, 2026
Processing time: 317 Days and 2.9 Hours
Revised: December 28, 2025
Accepted: February 3, 2026
Published online: September 26, 2026
Processing time: 317 Days and 2.9 Hours
Core Tip
Core Tip: This editorial highlights the emerging principle that in induced pluripotent stem cell-derived mesenchymal stem cell (iMSC) development, protocol defines product. Drawing on recent comparative data, it underscores how different derivation routes yield functionally distinct iMSCs despite meeting minimal mesenchymal stem cell criteria. The piece advocates aligning differentiation methods with therapeutic mechanisms, embedding genomic safety early, and designing good manufacturing practices-ready, comparable manufacturing processes. By integrating biological insight with process discipline, iMSC technology can achieve reproducibility, potency, and safety, thereby turning conceptual promise into clinically reliable cell therapies.