Stem cell technology and regenerative medicine are interdisciplinary fields that integrate engineering, molecular and cellular biology, and medical science to repair tissues and treat diseases using stem cell-based methods. The primary goal of this scientific field is to enhance the quality of life by replacing damaged cells and tissues with healthy ones, thereby improving injuries and disabilities. With recent advances in biomedical science and the unique potential of stem cells in treating diseases, ethical considerations surrounding this technology have become increasingly significant. Following a brief introduction to stem cell technology, this review explores ethical challenges, including the justifications for using stem cells, informed consent from patients, preservation of human dignity, and the social and cultural impacts associated with their application. As research in this field continues to expand, yielding numerous innovative findings and attracting growing interest from researchers, there has also been an increase in unproven commercial treatments that have not undergone necessary regulatory stages. The direct marketing of products in preclinical stages to consumers further underscores the importance of ethical considerations in the use of stem cells. Additionally, the unprincipled use of stem cells may lead to adverse effects, such as cancer or vascular diseases, exacerbating patients' conditions rather than improving them. The findings of this review emphasize the need to adapt existing laws and regulations to address ethical concerns and provide recommendations for enhancing ethical standards in clinical research involving stem cells. The results can serve as a guide for researchers and policymakers in addressing ethical challenges in stem cell research, ultimately improving the quality and safety of clinical research in cell therapy and regenerative medicine.
