University of Miami Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute (ISCI)

Established in 2008 at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, the Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute (ISCI) stands as a beacon of translational stem cell research, bridging basic science discoveries with clinical applications to combat incurable diseases. Founded by renowned cardiologist Joshua M. Hare, M.D., the Louis Lemberg Professor of Medicine and ISCI’s enduring director, the institute was created to harness adult stem cells for organ repair, initially focusing on cardiovascular conditions before expanding broadly.

ISCI’s mission is to advance stem cell biology, develop ethical regenerative therapies, and translate breakthroughs into treatments for chronic illnesses, aging, and injury—emphasizing rigorous, multidisciplinary collaboration across departments. With over 80 faculty members from more than 14 disciplines, ISCI fosters idea exchange through shared state-of-the-art cores, seminars, and a unique environment that accelerates innovation beyond traditional silos.

Research Focus & Achievements:

ISCI excels in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), exosomes, and cell-based therapeutics, targeting heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, spinal cord injury, ophthalmology, cancer, and more. Key pillars include a GMP-compliant Clinical Research Cell Manufacturing Program (CRCMP) for producing clinical-grade cells, preclinical modeling, and FDA-approved trials. As a leader in the NIH-funded Cardiovascular Cell Therapy Research Network (CCTRN), ISCI has pioneered novel cell combinations and exosome therapies for heart repair.

Milestones include over 300–310 patients enrolled in ISCI-led trials, groundbreaking MSC infusions showing heart rejuvenation and improved function, and recent NIH funding for exosome-based post-heart attack treatments. As of late 2024–2025, active trials (e.g., six testing MSCs for cardiac disorders, diabetes, stroke, and Alzheimer’s; Phase IIA CATO for ischemic cardiomyopathy; RECOVER-Stroke for brain delivery) continue to push boundaries, with partnerships like The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis enhancing neuroregeneration efforts.

Supported by NIH, philanthropic funding, and rapid growth (e.g., 40% annual extramural funding increase in early years), ISCI trains the next generation of scientists while prioritizing patient safety and ethical standards.