But stem cell research is still in its infancy, as scientists seek to better understand the role of these cells in normal human development and disease.

On Friday, September 14, the Ruth L. and David S. Gottesman Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University offered the Einstein community and invited guests an opportunity to hear from leading stem cell scientists investigating the dynamic field. The 2012 Einstein Stem Cell Institute Symposium featured speakers from around the globe presenting the latest research on induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells), cell reprogramming, as well as cancer and hematopoietic (blood-forming) stem cells.

"This symposium was an important milestone for stem cell research at Einstein and confirms our intent to contribute to advances in stem cell biology," said the event's host and organizer, Paul Frenette, M.D., director and chair of Einstein's Stem Cell Institute and professor of medicine and of cell biology.