What Is Stem Cell Banking?
Stem Cell Banking is the process of collecting, processing, and storing potentially life-saving Stem Cells for future medical use.
What Are Stem Cells?
A Stem Cell is a cell within your body that has the unique ability to develop into specialised cells. While most cells exist for a specific function, Stem Cells can provide new cells for the body, helping to repair and regenerate damaged or diseased cells. This has the great potential to save lives.
Type Of Stem Cells
There are two main types of naturally occurring stem cells found in a human body: Hematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs) and Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs).
Hematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs)
are found in cord blood, bone marrow and peripheral blood. They have the potential to develop into different blood components, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs)
are found in the cord tissue from the umbilical cord (Wharton’s Jelly), bone marrow, adipose (fat) tissue and tooth pulp. These stem cells have the potential to develop into a wide range of cells and tissues, such as bone, heart, nerve, muscle cornea, fat and cartilage tissues.