Source of Stem Cells:

• Umbilical Cord Blood: The blood found in the umbilical cord and placenta after a baby is born contains stem cells that can develop into various types of blood cells. These cells are collected after delivery and can be stored for future use.

Applications:

• Hematological Disorders: Cord blood stem cells are primarily used in treating blood-related conditions such as leukemia, lymphoma, and other cancers of the blood. They are also used for certain genetic disorders and immune system conditions.

• Regenerative Medicine: Research is ongoing into the potential for using cord blood stem cells to treat other conditions, including brain injuries, cerebral palsy, and heart disease.

Advantages:

• Less Risk of Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GVHD): Compared to stem cells from adult bone marrow, cord blood stem cells have a lower risk of GVHD, where the transplanted cells attack the recipient’s body.

• Greater Compatibility: Cord blood stem cells can be used in transplants where there is a lower degree of genetic match between donor and recipient, increasing the pool of potential donors.

• Availability: Since cord blood is collected from the placenta and umbilical cord, it provides a readily available source of stem cells that can be stored for future use.

Process of Collection and Storage:

• Collection: The collection of cord blood is a straightforward procedure performed immediately after the baby is delivered. The blood is drawn from the umbilical cord and placenta using a sterile technique.

• Storage: The collected cord blood is then processed and cryopreserved (frozen) in a cord blood bank. It can be stored for many years, potentially providing a source of stem cells for future treatments.