The promise of stem cells
Studying stem cells will help us understand how they transform into the dazzling array of specialized cells that make us what we are. Some of the most serious medical conditions, such as cancer and birth defects, are due to problems that occur somewhere in this process. A better understanding of normal cell development will allow us to understand and perhaps correct the errors that cause these medical conditions.
Another potential application of stem cells is making cells and tissues for medical therapies. Today, donated organs and tissues are often used to replace those that are diseased or destroyed. Unfortunately, the number of people needing a transplant far exceeds the number of organs available for transplantation. Pluripotent stem cells offer the possibility of a renewable source of replacement cells and tissues to treat a myriad of diseases, conditions, and disabilities the total number for today is approximately 150, they include Parkinson"s and Alzheimer"s diseases, spinal cord injury, stroke, burns, heart disease, diabetes, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and many others.
FAQs
What is cord blood? ()
Quite simply, cord blood is the remaining blood from your baby"s umbilical cord and placenta after birth. Cord blood is loaded with our ...
Are there some arguments against of cord blood banking? ()
The most obvious argument against is that the odds of needing cord blood for medical treatment is very, very slim. No accurate estimates exist ...
May harvesting and banking cord blood be intrusive or risky to a mother or baby? ()
Harvesting and banking cord blood is a fairly simple procedure that can be performed during vaginal or cesarian deliveries without interrupting ...