Abba C. Zubair

Dr. Abba C. Zubair is a Professor of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at Mayo Clinic's Florida campus, leading the Stem Cell Therapy Laboratory for over two decades. His work bridges transfusion medicine, regenerative biotherapeutics, and space biology to address age-related diseases and degenerative conditions.

Education highlights:

• PhD in Tumor Immunology from University of Sheffield
• MSc in Clinical Science at Harvard Medical School
• Residency in Pathology at University of Pennsylvania

Research focuses:

• Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs): Neuroprotective mechanisms via IL-6/VEGF signaling, 3D bioreactor expansion, and spaceflight adaptation
• Extracellular Vesicles (EVs): Clinical-grade manufacturing and mRNA engineering
• Clinical Translation: Pioneering MSC delivery through external ventricular drains for intracerebral hemorrhage

Scientific recognition:

• NASA's Exceptional Scientific Achievement Medal for space-based stem cell research
• Kirschstein NRSA fellowship
• AACR Scholar Award

Clinical contributions:

• Principal Investigator for two Phase 1 trials on MSC therapy for bronchiolitis obliterans and ICH
• Director of Transfusion Medicine Service and Stem Cell Processing Laboratory at Mayo Clinic Florida