Cristina Ruiz
Medical Student
Universidad San Francisco de Quito, USFQ
I am Cristina Ruiz, a fifth-year medical student at the Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) in Ecuador. Since my third year, I have been a Lab Trainee at the Biomedical Discovery Team led by Andrés Caicedo. This experience has been instrumental in developing crucial professional aspects for my career, such as teamwork and technical skills ranging from epidemiological studies to the development of regenerative medicine applications.
Notably, my work in the lab has focused on the development of Advanced Therapeutic Medicinal Products (ATMPs), including the application of Mesenchymal Stem Cells for therapy and the use of Mitochondria as a therapeutic agent for tissue regeneration. These groundbreaking advancements in medical science have left me in awe, motivating me to become a member of the International Society for Cellular Therapy (ISCT). Through my membership, I aim to expand my knowledge, build a professional network, and contribute to remarkable initiatives in the field.
I am excited to share my firsthand experience as a part of the ISCT Annual Meeting Paris 2023, as it marks my first foray into collaborative endeavors and networking opportunities beyond the borders of my country.
To begin with, I must acknowledge that attending the ISCT Annual Meeting in Paris has transformed me in ways I never anticipated. Stepping into the grand Palais des Congrès de Paris, I immediately sensed that I was entering a hub of intellectual exchange, bringing together more than 2,000 scientists from various regions and countries worldwide. The energy in the air was palpable as each participant brought their unique perspectives, a multitude of experiences, and a continuous flow of groundbreaking ideas. What united us all was a shared dedication to advancing science, disseminating knowledge, and applying it for the betterment of humanity.
The atmosphere at the conference was electric, with vibrant discussions, thought-provoking presentations, and collaborative sessions that left an indelible mark on me. Interacting with individuals who shared the same passion and commitment to scientific exploration was invigorating. I found myself engaging in conversations that challenged my thinking, broadened my horizons, and sparked new avenues of research.
The presence of multiple research teams from South America, as well as our participation alongside Andres Caicedo (research leader) and Sebastian Peñaherrera (junior researcher), as representatives of our university and country, provided us with a valuable opportunity to learn, reflect, and become aware of the diversity of ideas, economic challenges, existing technological solutions, and the incredible power of global collaboration. First and foremost, we realized that there are numerous scientific initiatives beyond the confines of our laboratories that we can effectively address through cooperation among teams. This collaboration creates a synergy that helps us tackle the inherent challenges of research work more efficiently and effectively.
Moreover, we became acutely aware of the limited financial resources available for optimal research in the South and Central America region. However, we are optimistic that the amazing work being conducted in the labs at the SCA will lead to an increase in the coming years. We believe that the ISCT will play a vital role in developing opportunities for early-stage professionals, attracting investment, and strengthening our regulatory framework.
Furthermore, this congress showcased the remarkable automation of numerous research processes. The industry presented a wide range of cutting-edge laboratory equipment and tools that have the potential to alleviate many of the challenges we encounter. We were particularly impressed by the advent of machines capable of conducting cell culture, performing cellular counting, and employing cell tracking software with a wide array of applications.
During my academic training, I have extensively studied the molecular mechanisms underlying the optimal functioning of immune cells, the pathophysiology of cancer, and the available treatments. I have also explored promising therapies that are currently in trial phases in clinical research. Therefore, it was truly enlightening for me to encounter teams of scientists at the congress who were presenting and discussing their work and achievements in this field. Their research holds great therapeutic potential and could ultimately enhance the quality of life for thousands of individuals while addressing significant public health challenges worldwide.
Countless examples come to mind, such as the decellularizing process and subsequent recellularization of a porcine heart using progenitor cells and cardiomyocytes. This innovative approach aims to achieve a functional and vascularized heart, representing a major advancement in organ regeneration. Another remarkable instance involves the production of blood vessel grafts using a two-photon microscope and a layer-by-layer 3D bio-printing polymerization process. This cutting-edge technique enables the creation of precise and functional vascular structures, offering new possibilities for vascular reconstruction.
My visit to Paris and participation in the ISCT 2023 Annual Meeting demonstrated to me that science goes beyond borders. The event showcased a united community of scientists facing similar challenges and sharing a common goal. Collaboration and innovative ideas were at the forefront, reflecting the spirit of ISCT. The experience left me inspired and reminded of the importance of advancing cellular and gene therapy.
I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to receive the collaborative scholarship granted by ISCT and USFQ, which allowed me to attend this extraordinary congress. I sincerely hope that many young students, just like me, who are embarking on their journey in biomedical research and experimentation, will also have the chance to participate in similar events. These activities possess the transformative power to completely reshape our perspective on problems and teach us that all ideas are possible when we work with insight, dedication, and enthusiasm.
This journey was not only a physical trip across borders but also an opportunity for personal growth. As I return to my country and resume my work in the laboratory, I feel a sense of fulfillment and carry with me valuable experiences. These experiences have renewed my motivation, strengthened my commitment, and presented me with new challenges.
I am eager to continue my research and contribute to the academic and scientific community. The journey has shaped me into a dedicated professional driven to promote health and strive for excellence in my field. I am grateful to the USFQ and ISCT for the opportunity to have participated in this journey, as it has expanded my perspective and helped me overcome internal barriers.
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