For over a decade, the Journal of Infertility and Reproductive Biology (JIRB) has been a dedicated forum advancing knowledge in reproductive health and biology, particularly within Kazakhstan and the broader Central Asian region. Since its inception in 2013, it has provided a platform for the dissemination of pioneering research in infertility and reproductive science, mirroring the commitment of our scientific community to innovation and excellence in health care. JIRB’s narrative is etched with the contributions of numerous researchers and clinicians whose work has enriched our understanding in its field and laid a strong foundation for the next phase of growth. In step with the rapid evolution of biomedical science, we have undertaken a strategic transformation of this journal to embrace a broader and more dynamic scope. We are pleased to announce that JIRB will continue henceforth under a new title – the West Kazakhstan Regenerative Medicine Journal (WKRJ) – reflecting an expanded focus that extends beyond reproductive biology into the cutting-edge domain of regenerative medicine. This transition is both a natural progression and a forward-looking step to align our journal with the frontiers of modern medical research. In the contemporary era, regenerative medicine stands at the forefront of biomedical innovation. It is an emerging interdisciplinary field focused on the repair, replacement, or regeneration of cells, tissues, and organs to restore impaired function.1 Regenerative medicine brings together advances in biology and engineering, moving beyond traditional transplantation therapies through approaches such as stem cell transplantation, gene therapy, tissue engineering, and the use of bioactive molecules.1 Importantly, this field holds the promise to heal or replace tissues and organs damaged by age, disease, or trauma, offering hope for conditions that were previously considered untreatable.2 By reimagining how we treat degenerative diseases and injuries, regenerative medicine has the potential to revolutionize clinical care across a wide array of specialties. WKRJ’s broadened scope will encompass the full spectrum of regenerative medicine research, from fundamental laboratory studies to clinical applications. The journal welcomes investigations in stem cell biology and therapy (including mesenchymal, embryonic, and induced pluripotent stem cells and their differentiation and signaling pathways), as well as in exosome and extracellular vesicle research elucidating their characterization and therapeutic roles in tissue repair. We encourage cutting-edge work in tissue engineering and biomaterials, such as the design of novel scaffolds, bioactive materials, and advances in 3D bioprinting for tissue regeneration, alongside gene- and cell-based interventions for treating degenerative diseases. Furthermore, WKRJ will cover advances in regenerative applications across diverse medical domains: from neuroregeneration and cardiovascular tissue repair to regenerative endodontics and dentistry aimed at dental tissue regeneration, and even reproductive regenerative medicine focusing on innovations in infertility treatment and gametogenesis. Studies in regenerative pharmacology exploring bioactive compounds and nanotechnology for tissue healing are also within our purview. Equally crucial are contributions on clinical translation and regulatory science – including preclinical models, clinical trials, bioethics, and policy frameworks – that support the safe and effective transition of regenerative therapies from bench to bedside. Finally, recognizing the importance of enabling technologies, the journal highlights biotechnology and bioengineering innovations such as organoids, microfluidic systems, lab-on-a-chip platforms, and bioreactors, which are driving the next generation of breakthroughs in tissue regeneration. In sum, WKRJ aims to serve as an interdisciplinary nexus for all studies that contribute to tissue repair, regeneration, and the restoration of function. As an open-access journal with a rigorous double-blind peer-review process, WKRJ is committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality and ethics established by its predecessor. Our mission is to accelerate the translation of laboratory discoveries into effective clinical therapies that improve human health and quality of life. In pursuing this mission, WKRJ will particularly support and spotlight research emerging from Central Asia and Eurasia, providing a global platform for scientists from these regions to share their innovations. This emphasis not only amplifies regional scientific contributions but also enriches the international dialog in regenerative medicine, reflecting the view that emerging economies can harness regenerative technologies to leapfrog in healthcare development.3 Throughout this transition, we remain steadfast in our dedication to scholarly rigor and integrity. The change in scope and title does not alter our adherence to ethical publication practices and rigorous peer review; rather, it reinforces our commitment to excellence. With the launch of WKRJ, we embrace a broader vision that we believe will better serve both our local scientific community and the international readership. We are enthusiastic about this new chapter and invite researchers, clinicians, biotechnologists, and innovators in regenerative medicine and related disciplines to contribute their work to WKRJ. By uniting diverse disciplines and perspectives under one journal, we hope to foster collaboration and push the frontiers of regenerative medicine, ultimately translating scientific innovations into improved patient outcomes. Finally, we extend our sincere gratitude to the authors, reviewers, and readers who have supported JIRB over the years. Their dedication forms the cornerstone upon which WKRJ is built, and we are honored to carry that legacy forward. We look forward to your continued support and readership as we embark on this exciting journey to advance the science and practice of regenerative medicine.
Amin Tamadon (Wed,) studied this question.