By Kenneth R. Tindall, Ph.D., Maria Rapoza, Ph.D. and Karen Richardson

North Carolina’s longstanding commitment to establishing biotechnology as one of the state’s key industries has resulted in a unique environment that provides a fertile ground for success in the area of stem cell science and regenerative medicine. While regenerative medicine research initiatives are under way globally, few areas have the critical mass and infrastructure that North Carolina has to engage in the full spectrum of activities required to move from basic research to commercialization and the clinic. Key components unique to the state are a longstanding initiative to train a biotech workforce; the world’s first state-supported biotechnology center; four medical schools with linked teaching hospitals; headquarters of the world’s largest clinical research organizations; seven research parks; and an environment favorable to business and supportive of life science start-up companies. In addition, the state is home to one of the world’s largest facilities dedicated to regenerative medicine research.