In the captivating domain of regenerative medicine, stem cells emerge as a key resource to repair and rejuvenate our bodies from whining. Stem cells, or building blocks of one’s body, possess the unique potential to transform into various types of cells and replace damaged or ageing tissues. Their regenerative prowess makes them an essential resource in treating a wide range of medical conditions.
These resemble classes in different forms and are derived from different sources, each with its characteristics and applications. Read on to dive deep into the origins of stem cells and understand where they come from!
Decoding Stem Cells
Stem cells are unique cells with two critical characteristics that distinguish them from other types of cells. They are unspecialized cells capable of renewing themselves through cell division, even after a prolonged period of inactivity. These cells under specific physiologic or experimental conditions, can be induced to become tissue or organ-specific cells with specialised functions. In many tissues, stem cells serve as an internal repair system, diving without limit to repellent the other cells as long as the individual is still alive.
Where do Stem Cells Come From?
Stem cell is progressively changing medicine today. Due to the distinctive qualities of stem cells, ongoing advancements will open new possibilities. Let us explore the different origins of stem cells in brief.
- Fertilised embryos
Embryonic stem cells are derived from the fertilised embryos during the blastocyst stage. These embryos are typically generated through IVF (Invitro fertilisation), a process where eggs are fertilised by sperm outside the body. The produced embryos are cultured for a few days until they attain the blastocyst stage, which has an inner cell mass rich in pluripotent stem cells. These cells will be isolated and cultured for stem cell therapy for research and therapeutic purposes.
Read also: Differences between Cord Blood Stem Cells, Embryonic Stem Cells, and Adult Stem Cell
- Blastocysts
Blastocysts are an important structure in early embryonic development. It develops five days after fertilisation and consists of an outlet layer of cells called trophoblast and an inner cell mass. This inner cell mass has pluripotent stem cells which can develop into any type of cell in the body. These cells are carefully extracted to create embryonic stem cell lines to produce a renewable source of pluripotent cells for potential therapies in future.
- Bone Marrow
Bone marrow is a rich source of adult stem cells, especially hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). These cells can be differentiated into various blood cells including white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets. Bone marrow transplantation that involves HSCs is commonly used to treat blood disorders such as lymphoma and leukaemia. Their ability to regenerate the blood system makes it a critical resource in clinical therapies.
- Umbilical Cord
Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are derived from the umbilical cord tissue, placenta and placental membranes. These stem cells can develop into particular cells for that tissue including liver tissue, nervous tissue, and bone tissue, along with the ability to regenerate organs. Stem cell banking holds the immense capability to unlock innovative therapies and treatments that transcend the boundaries of traditional medicine.
- Peripheral Blood
Peripheral blood contains hematopoietic stem cells but in lower quantities. The advances in medical technology enabled the mobilisation of HSCs from the bone marrow into the bloodstream, from where they can be collected through a process known as apheresis. Peripheral blood stem cell transplants are less invasive than bone marrow transplantation, which is being increasingly used in clinical settings to treat different haematological conditions.
- Adipose Tissue
Adipose Tissue, also known as fat tissue, is an excellent source of Mesenchymal stem cells. These types of cells have the potential to differentiate into bone, cartilage and fat cells. They are easily obtainable through liposuction procedures and are being researched for their regenerative capabilities in treating orthopaedic injuries, cardiovascular diseases and autoimmune disorders. Their ease- of access makes the source a valuable aid in regenerative medicine.
Uncover the Remarkable Benefits of Stem Cells with Cryoviva!
Whether they are harnessed from adult tissues or umbilical cord, cord blood stem cells stand at the forefront of medical innovation, shaping the future of regenerative therapies. It assists your body’s natural ability to heal, replace and restore the diseased or regenerate tissues. At Cryoviva, we offer best-in-class stem cell preservation facilities to help you to procure and preserve your little one’s cord blood to ensure they have a healthy future.