New glossary of terms used in regenerative medicine: standardization continues to emerge as regenerative medicine matures

Abstract

Regenerative medicine is an evolving, cross-disciplinary, international field that, as a result, uses terms that are either not widely understood, or may have a number of different meanings. Many stakeholders have identified this lack of clarity as a potential barrier to effective communication within the field. To address this, BSI British Standards, supported by the UK Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS), was commissioned to develop guidance on the definitions of terms used within regenerative medicine. The resulting document aims to provide clear consensus terminology to improve communication and facilitate a common understanding for a broad range of potential users.