Following the birth of a baby, the umbilical cord usually is discarded along with the placenta. However, it is now known that blood retrieved from the umbilical cord is a rich source of stem cells.
It is of particular interest that a variety of nonhaemopoietic stem cells, in addition to HSCs, has been identified in UCB. Cell types identified in UCB include pluripotent stem cells, vascular endothelial cell precursors, osteoblast and chondrocyte precursors and Mesenchimal Stem Cells.
These may have a future role in:
- tissue revascularization,
- repair of bone and joint diseases,
- wound healing,
- cardiac repair, and
- possibly in diseases requiring repair of muscle, neural, liver cells etc.
Currently, commercial companies provide services to parents to store their newborn babys cord blood. Prospective parents who are considering this option should have as much information as possible to make an informed decision.
Cryopraxis is optimistic about the treatment possibilities using umbilical cord blood, and is assessing research results that, thus far, seem promising. However, expectant parents should be well informed so that any choice is based upon sound advice and medical evidence.
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