Umbilical Cord Blood Stem Cells: Types, Sources And Uses
All set to welcome your little bundle of joy? Diapers, clothes, plushies, skincare - all checked! Great. Besides this, we hope you’re not forgetting the main thing - securing your baby’s future health. Dear expectant parents, here we’re talking about stem cell banking. A process of preserving your baby’s vital umbilical cord blood stem cells at birth that can safeguard your entire family against 80+ serious diseases. Let’s deep dive into the deets and explore how enrolling for LifeCell’s Umbilical Cord Blood Banking can be a game changer.
Stem Cells: Tiny Building Blocks
These are specialised cells in our body that can take on various roles. They have 2 main qualities including:
- Regenerative properties - The ability to divide and multiply themselves into more stem cells. (Just like a magical trick!)
- Repairing potential - Stem cells can turn into other cell types such as muscle, skin or blood cells. This helps repair and replace damaged cells while promoting health and healing.
Sources: Where Do Stem Cells Come From?
It’s time to understand the origination of these mighty stem cells. Let’s get started:
- Embryonic Stem Cells
Going with the name, these stem cells come from embryos. Their ability to differentiate and develop into any type of cell in the body makes them superior. Adult Stem Cells
Adult doesn't mean they’re old, definitely! These cells are present in various tissues and organs in our body. They have a limited ability to grow into different cell types, thus keeping them a little behind in the race.
- Umbilical Cord Blood Stem Cells
These stem cells have some exceptional superpowers. Imagine a futuristic robot whose mechanism is designed to perform several high-end tasks. Similarly, cord blood stem cells are like those distinctive cells in our body that can differentiate into new cell types and perform various roles.
What Are The Types Of Stem Cells?
Based on the potential, stem cells are of the following types:
- Totipotent stem cells
They can differentiate into any cell type. Eg - the zygote can develop into any cell once the egg fertilises, including placental cells. In humans, totipotent stem cells are only produced from embryonic cells during the early phases of cell division
- Pluri-potent stem cells
They can differentiate into any cell type, except the placental cells. These stem cells consist of embryonic and induced pluri-potent stem cells (iPSCs), reprogrammed from adult cells. Both types hold significant potential for regenerative medicine and research.
- Multipotent stem cells
Found in nearly all tissues, mesenchymal stem cells are their most common example. They can be separated from the adipose tissue, bone marrow, peripheral blood, and even umbilical cord blood.
Uses Of Stem Cells
Ever wondered how these stem cells are paving the way for future medical advancements? Let’s dive in!
- Regenerative Medicine
Imagine the time when we can develop new organs or repair damaged ones. It’s like dreaming of a future that once seemed impossible. With the help of stem cells, it’s possible now to regenerate teeth, heal wounds and even treat heart failures.
- Research And Drug Testing
Scientists use stem cells to understand diseases better and test new drugs. Instead of testing on animals, they can use these cells to see how diseases develop and how treatments work. This approach can lead to safer drugs/medicines and better treatment options, making it a win-win situation for everyone involved.
- Stem Cell Transplant
The process involves retrieving umbilical cord blood stem cells and transplanting them into the patient's body. Stem cell transplants are already being used to treat a variety of malignant and non-cancerous disorders, including acute leukaemia, multiple myeloma, neuroblastoma, and lymphoma.
Final Takeaway!
The different types of stem cells proffer a glance into the future of medicine. Whether it's the embryonic, adult or umbilical cord blood stem cell, each stem cell type brings something valuable to the table. Isn't it? The magic of these stem cells lies in their ability to regenerate themselves and help repair damaged tissues. It’s almost like nature’s repair kit, where stem cells are fixing what’s broken! They might not fix a broken heart, but these stem cells can help in the treatment of various life-threatening diseases!
So, what’s the delay? If you’re expecting a baby, avail this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and secure your entire family’s future health. Enrol with LifeCell’s Community Stem Cell Banking and move one step closer to what is every parent’s dream - their baby’s good health!
To know more details, visit www.lifecell.in/ or call 1800-266-5533
