Afshin Shirzad
Papers
2
Total Citations
192
H-Index
2
About
Afshin Shirzad is a pioneering researcher in the field of cell transplantation therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). His work has fundamentally shaped the experimental landscape for treating this devastating genetic disorder. Shirzad’s primary research focus is on myoblast transfer therapy (MTT), a technique aimed at restoring dystrophin production by injecting healthy muscle precursor cells into affected patients. His landmark 1992 study, which has garnered 106 citations, demonstrated the feasibility and safety of injecting five billion normal myoblasts into the lower limbs of 21 DMD boys aged 6–14, marking a critical Phase II clinical trial. Expanding on this, his 1993 paper (86 citations) assessed MTT in a larger cohort of 32 boys, including nonambulatory patients, providing foundational evidence for cell-based interventions. These contributions established key protocols for dosage, injection methods, and safety monitoring that later trials would build upon. Shirzad’s work remains highly influential, offering early proof-of-concept that cell transplantation could be a viable experimental treatment for DMD, and continues to inform regenerative medicine approaches for muscular dystrophies today.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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