When Americans think about competition with China, they usually think about artificial intelligence, semiconductors, or advanced manufacturing. Yet another strategic race is quietly underway — one that could prove just as consequential to America’s economy, healthcare system, and national security: regenerative medicine.

For decades, the United States has been the world’s unquestioned leader in biomedical research. American universities, biotechnology companies, physicians, and entrepreneurs have produced many of the medical breakthroughs that transformed modern healthcare. But leadership is never guaranteed. It must be continually earned.