Stem Cell Types And Their Use In Internal Stem Cell Therapeutics
September 20, 2011 | 
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Stem Cell Types And Their Use In Internal Stem Cell Therapeutics
This short paper will focus on stem cell therapeutics where stem cells are injected into the patient, as opposed to other stem cell-based therapeutics where the cells, or their products (such as proteins released from the stem cell) are applied topically to the patient. As injectables, stem cells have been demonstrated to be the most important therapeutic for many diseases and conditions because of three important characteristics that they possess. First, stem cells are unspecialized cells that can replenish their numbers for long periods through cell division. Second, after receiving certain chemical signals, they can differentiate, or transform into specialized cells with specific functions, such as a heart cell or nerve cell. Third, and research and clinical practice suggests this aspect of stem cells may be their most important, stem cells have been shown to release and respond to a number of tissue regenerating proteins, including growth factors and cytokines. These three important characteristics distinguish stem cells from other cells in the body that do not possess these characteristics and therefore cannot be used in cellular therapeutics nearly as effectively as can the stem cells.
Stem cells are often classified by the extent to which they can differentiate into different mature cell types, (but this classification does not specify what the cell types are able to release and respond to as signaling molecules):
stem cells can differentiate into any cell type in the adult body, and into the placenta to nourishe the embryo. A fertilized egg is a type of Totipotent stem cell. Cells produced in the first few divisions of the fertilized egg are also Totipotent.
stem cells are descendants of the Totipotent stem cells of the embryo. These cells, which develop about four days after fertilization, can differentiate into any cell type, except for Totipotent stem cells and the cells of the placenta.
stem cells are descendants of Pluripotent stem cells and antecedents of specialized cells in particular tissues. For example, hematopoietic stem cells, found primarily in the bone marrow, give rise to all of the cells found in the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Another example are the neural stem cells that can differentiate into nerve cells and neural support cells called Glia.
cells (or Unipotent stem cells) can produce only one cell type. As an example, Erythroid Progenitor cells differentiate into only red blood cells. At the end of the long chain of cell divisions are “terminally differentiated” cells, such as a liver cell or lung cell, that are permanently committed to specific functions. These cells stay committed to their functions for the life of the organism or until a tumor develops. In the case of a tumor, the cells differentiate, or return to a less mature state. Research continues on both adult and embryonic stem cells to determine the characteristics and potential of both to cure disease.
Stem cells is a term used to describe all cells that can give rise to cells of multiple tissue types. However, there are different types of stems cells. Totipotent cells, like the cells of a fertilized egg in the first few days after fertilization, can give rise to a fully functional organism. During normal development, the Totipotent cells become more specialized and are considered Pluripotent, meaning that they can give rise to every cell type in the body, but will not give rise to the placenta or supporting tissues necessary for fetal development. Because their potential is not total, they are not Totipotent and they are not embryos. Pluripotent stem cells undergo further specialization into stem cells committed to generating cells that are specialized for a particular function. Multipotent cells can give rise to the cell types found in the tissue from which they were derived, such as blood stem cells that give rise only to red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets, or skin stem cells that give rise only to the various types of skin cells.
Stem cell therapy can be defined as a group of new techniques and technologies that rely on replacing diseased or dysfunctional cells with healthy, functioning cells, or replacing the molecules that the transplanted stem cells normally release into the area of tissue that is the recipient of the therapy. These new techniques are being applied to a wide range of human diseases, including many types of cancer, neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s, Lou Gehrig’s disease, multiple schlerosis, spinal cord injuries, and diabetes. Further, replacing dysfunctional cells in the retina with new ones may someday cure even presently incurable neurodegenerative eye diseases such as glaucoma and macular degeneration. To understand how cell therapy works, we need to understand the role of cells in the body.
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Cells are the basic building blocks of the human body. These tiny structures compose the skin, muscles, brain, bones and all of the internal organs. They also hold many of the keys to how our bodies function. Cells serve both a structural and a functional role in the body, performing an almost endless variety of actions to sustain the body’s tissues and organs underlying our mentation and our actions.
There are thousands of different specialized cell types in the adult body. All of these cells perform very specific functions for the tissue or organ in which they reside. Specialized cells in the heart muscle intrinsically “beat” rhythmically through the internal propagation of electrical signals are an example, while the cells of the pancreas produce and secrete insulin to help the body convert food to energy are another example. These two mature cells types have been differentiated, or dedicated, to performing their special tasks. Until recently, scientific evidence suggested that under normal conditions, once a cell has become specialized, it cannot be changed into a different type of cell.
Like the body itself, cells have a finite life span and will eventually die. Most of the cells in the body divide and duplicate throughout life, but some cells either don’t replenish themselves, or do so in such small numbers that they cannot replace themselves fast enough when faced with disease or injury where a large number of cells are destroyed at one instance.
While cells are indispensable in performing vital functions for the body, they can also exist outside the body using special scientific laboratory techniques. The cells can live and divide outside the body in “cultures,” utilizing special solutions in test tubes or Petrie dishes. This ability of certain cell types to live isolated from other cells under controlled conditions has allowed scientists to study them independently of the organ or system in which they are normally a part. Through the isolation and targeted manipulation of cells, biotech companies are finding ways to identify young, regenerating cells that can be used to replace damaged or dead cells in diseased or damaged organs. This therapy is similar to the process of organ transplant, however in stem cell therapy the treatment consists of the transplantation of cells rather than organs. The cells that have shown by far the most promise of supplying diseased and damaged organs with healthy new ones are called stem cells.
A key question in stem cell research and therapy is, do adult stem cells have the same therapeutic capability as embryonic stem cells? For many years, scientists have conducted studies to determine whether the stem cells in adult tissue have the same developmental capability as embryonic stem cells. The answer is yes and no, depending on the exact capability that is required for the therapeutic regimen. If we think of using stem cells for the conversion of the stem cell into a new, differentiated cell type (e.g. turning the stem cell into a heart cell) then the general consensus is that adult stem cells seem to be less versatile. However, if we think of stem cells as a means for repairing tissue through the release of “healing-molecules” into the damaged tissue, then adult stem cells may prove to be more effective then embryonic stem cells. Thus therapies for different types of conditions may require one or the other type of stem cell, or may require both the embryonic and the adult stem cell for proper reparation of the tissue.
Even though most of the work done in this field has been experimental in the USA, most scientists here find cell therapy so promising that they believe in a short time stem cell therapy will be routine. And while many uses of stem cell therapy may be years away, there are a few forms of this technique that have already been in use for years. Bone marrow transplants are an example of cell therapy in which the stem cells in a donor’s marrow are used to replace the blood cells of the victims of leukemia and other cancers. Cell therapy is also being used in experiments to graft new skin cells to treat serious burn victims and diabetic ulcer wounds, and to grow new corneas for the sight-impaired. In all of these uses, the goal is for the healthy cells to become integrated into the body, acting as new cells that begin to function like the patient’s own cells and/or releasing growth factors and proteins into the damaged tissue to begin the regeneration process.
Thus far results of such experiments have exceeded expectations. In a recent advance, pancreatic cells grown from stem cells were implanted into the body of a diabetic and began to produce and release insulin. Results of the aforementioned therapies have caused great optimism in the scientific and medical communities. However, there are a number of scientific challenges that must be overcome before we can harness the complete power of stem cells for therapeutic use.
One of the first challenges to be overcome before stem cell therapies become commonplace is the difficulty of identifying stem cells in tissue cultures, which contain numerous types of confounding cells. While scientists are discovering new cell types almost every day, estimates are that thousands of human cell types exist. The process of identifying any desired type of stem cell will involve painstaking research. A second challenge, once stem cells are identified and isolated, the right biochemical solution must be developed to cause these progenitor cells to differentiate into the desired cell type, or to release their “healing-molecules.” This too will require a great deal of experimentation.
A third challenge arises when the cells are implanted into a person. The cells must be integrated into the patient’s own tissues and organs and function in concert with the body’s natural cells. Cardiac cells that beat in a cell culture, for example, may not beat in rhythm with a patient’s own heart cells. And neural stem cells injected into a damaged brain must become “wired into” the brain’s intricate network of cells and their connections in order to work properly.
Another challenge is the common phenomenon of tissue rejection. Similar to organ transplants, the body’s immune cells will recognize transplanted cells as “foreign,” setting off an immune reaction that could cause the transplant to fail and possibly endanger the patient. Yet another concern is the possible risk of inducing cancer. Cancers result when cells lose their internal stop mechanisms and keep dividing when further proliferation is no longer desirable. Researchers must find a delicate balance between fostering the growth of new cells to replenish damaged tissues , while preventing them to overgrow and become cancerous. Recent studies suggest that these obstacles can be overcome and the power of stem cells can be fully harnessed.
Beyond the scientific and medical challenges, there are also ethical, social, financial and political issues affecting this new industry. One of the hardest issues for this industry to overcome is that patients are generally offered stem cell therapy after all other treatments have been exhausted, therefore limiting the chance for success. As is natural in the business world, success of stem cell therapy poses a serious financial threat to many other conventional treatments, and there are, therefore, powerful forces that using their power to minimize this industry’s successes and magnify its failures.
Despite the many challenges facing scientists, most believe that stem cell therapy will revolutionize medicine. With the use of cell therapies, we may soon have dramatic cures for cancer, Parkinson’s, diabetes, kidney disease, multiple sclerosis, muscular degeneration, glaucoma, and many other diseases. Stem cell therapies have also shown great promise in helping to repair catastrophic wounds from burn and diabetic ulcers, spinal injuries, sickle cell anemia, and helping victims of paralysis regain movement. Stem cell therapies also provide the possibility that the human life span could be greatly extended due to the replenishment of tissues in aging organs. Perhaps one day we’ll be able to grow our own organs for transplantation from our own stem cells, eliminating the danger of organ rejection. While we will undoubtedly advance stem cell therapy one day to a full realization of its potential, in practice today as we speak, many humans around the world are experiencing better lives because of stem cell therapeutics in one form or another.
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Embryonic Stem Cells
Embryonic Stem Cells
Embryonic stem cells have been making headlines recently. But among the talk, there is rarely a pause to explain what embryonic stem cells are, what makes them unique, and why they stir up so much debate.
Stem cells, unlike other cells, can renew themselves for long periods of time though cell division, and under certain laboratory conditions, they can be stimulated into becoming cells with special functions, like insulin producing cells normally found in the pancreas. One of the major hopes is that researching stem cells is they could potentially offer a renewable source of a transplantable tissues, and have a significant impact on the treatment of Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, spinal cord injures, and other diseases. Recent research at Johns Hopkins University shows however that spinal cord injuries, for example, can heal through normal patterns of activity without the need for stem cells.
There are both embryonic stem cells, which are derived from embryos that have been fertilized in-vitro and have been donated for research, and adult stem cells. The major difference between embryonic and adult stem cells is that embryonic stem cells have the ability to become many different cells in the body.
While stem cell research offers many possibilities in the treatment of disease, it remains controversial because, among other concerns, in order to create embryonic stem cells, the embryo must be destroyed in order to create embryonic stem cells. At least, that used to be the case. On June 19th, researchers at the Advanced Cell Technology Company announced that they had found a way to create embryonic stem cells without having to destroy the embryo. This process is an adaptation of a common genetic test used in fertility clinics, known as pre-implantation genetic diagnosis.
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In a press release from the Advanced Cell Technology Company Ronald Green, Ph.D., Director of Dartmouth College’s Ethics Institute and Chairman of ACT’s Ethics Advisory Board is quoted as saying, “One of the major ethical objections of those who oppose the generation of human embryonic stems cells is that all techniques, until now, have resulted in the destruction of the embryo,” and that “This technique overcomes this hurdle and has the potential to play a critical role in the advancement of regenerative medicine. It also appears to be a way out of the current political impasse in this country and elsewhere.” The current US policy does not allow use of embryos harvested made past August of 2001. On June 20, 2007, the president vetoed a bill that would allow embryos from past that date to be used, and encouraged alternative means of producing stem cells.
The president’s veto drew strong response from several sources, including the American Fertility Association, who pointed to a study published the same day which showed that, in a survey of 1,000 couples who had stored embryos 60 % said they would donate embryos for stem cell research. This study was done by researchers at Duke University Medical Center and John Hopkins University, and published in the online version of Science Express. The executive director of the American Fertility Foundation claimed that, “The study confirms what the AFA has said repeatedly: Federal policy does not reflect the preferences of the majority of our members.”
Embryonic stem cell research will continue to be a subject of strong debate. In the meantime, it remains to be seen whether hopes for stem cell research become a reality or whether it simply represents another means for funneling funds to the biotech industry which remains long on promises and short on results, particularly as we heard towards the next presidential elections.
Will stem cell transplant prove to be helpful in saving life of nuclear workers?
Will stem cell transplant prove to be helpful in saving life of nuclear workers?
The recent earthquake brought a number of unfavorable events for Japan and left the country’s economy totally demolished. Further, it also affected the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear plant. Nowadays workers are busy fixing the damage already done to the reactors. These workers can receive that are normally performed on the cancer patients. Under this technique, blood stem cells are injected into the bone marrow of cancer patient’s that have undergone damage by the radiations.
The experts believe that this approach of could also be useful in saving lives of workers in nuclear plant of Japan. These workers due to contamination with high radioactive waves are carrying risk to develop a syndrome of acute radiation. The residents within the area of around twelve mile radius have evacuated the place already. Many of the workers have been hospitalized due to contact with radio-active water while laying electricity cables. Thus to combat this, authorities of Japan are considering about the stem cell banking. They are planning to collect cells from few workers and then freeze if any of them would require transplantation in the future.
The workers suffering from acute syndrome have developed chances of very less survival rate. It was quoted by website of US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The site also published that major cause for death would be bone marrow damage. This is why scientists are asking for transplantation of stem cells. Under this technique, a patient is injected with certain chemicals that enhance the production of bone marrow and as a result discharge many stem cells in the blood. Several days later these cells are harvested by a blood filtration system.
The has to be performed on the workers in the nuclear plant much before their exposure to the radiations. The stem cells extracted would be used in future if they are harmed. According to a researcher of stem cells and Barts and London School of Medicine Professor of Cell and Molecular biology, Dr. Dean Nizetic – the process would require a careful watch over the exposure dose and it should not be taken casually due to numerous safety checks. Nizetin has objected the careless attitude shown by workers. It is because the process gives them a false belief that they are secure completely while it still possesses some risk factor.
Nizetic told that the human tissues that possess high danger to get damaged due to radiation exposure first are- skin, lining of digestive tract and bone marrow. As the transplantation process has the capability to restore bone marrow of a patient but damage to other cells is not easily correctable. Even if it is under some conditions, they require risky and very expensive procedures. This nuclear crisis has raised many controversies such as – what precautions and how much, for only workers or also for the people residing at a close distance to the area. The workers at this plant have been provided with drugs in advance. One is potassium iodide that will help to lessen the danger of thyroid cancer with the exposure to radiations. The topic of the debate continues to be how many of them have to be provided with such drugs.
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Stem Cell Transplant – How It Can Save Your Life
Stem Cell Transplant – How It Can Save Your Life
Stem cell transplant is the new buzzword in medical technology. More and more parents are investing in cord blood stem cell banking as means of securing their kid’s future. But do you really need to bank your kid’s stem cells? Read on, while we tell you whether it is a good idea or not!
The main reason why people go for stem cell transplants is because these cells are capable of growing into other types of cell or tissues. This opens up a whole new world of treatments for diseases like Alzheimer’s, diabetes and Parkinson’s, apart from debilitating blood diseases. So, should you invest in it?
- Yes, if your family has a history of genetic disease that can be cured. Though your child will benefit the most from it, should he need it, you as a parent can also benefit from it. Research shows that a patient has more chances of success by transplants of stem cells than he does with a bone marrow. You should consider this more seriously under the following conditions:
1. Susceptibility to leukemia- umbilical cord blood cells have been used to treat childhood leukemia for a time now. Fortunately, the treatment of leukemia, even in adults, has drastically improved with stem cell therapy. Stem cell have been revolutionary in the treatment of conditions like thalassemia and Parkinson’s disease.
2. Spinal injuries-Stem cell have also had miraculous results in treating spinal cord injuries. Umbilical stem cell has also been promising in case of a rare genetic disorder called Krabbe disease.
3. Lymphoproliferative diseases – Cord blood stem cells have been widely acclaimed to be highly effective in treating such diseases.
- If you are part of a specific community, then yes. Research shows that it is difficult to find cell matches for African Americans, Native Americans or Hispanics. If you need a stem cell match for treatment, you stand more of a chance with your own cells or that of a close relative’s. The best part of stem cell transplant? You don’t even need an exact biological match.
- Stem cell transplant is also a good idea if you are adopting a baby at birth or do not know a lot about the genetic background of the baby. Since you will not be able to provide genetic support for such a kid, it is better to secure her future by banking the cells.
- Treatmentsare also no longer confined to your dream. Cell banking facilities across the world have made it possible for you to preserve these precious cells, with the minimum of discomfort and expense.
- Treatment may begin anytime. You do not have to look for matching donors. Also, you are less susceptible to viral infections.
With the onslaught of new disease every few days, stem cell banking can be the best gift you provide your child- the gift of life!
Stem cells in skin care…What does it really mean? – Repair your skin with the latest breakthrough in skin repair
Stem cells in skin care…What does it really mean? – Repair your skin with the latest breakthrough in skin repair
Stem cells in skin care…What does it really mean? have recently become a huge buzzword in the world. But what does this really mean? specialists are not using embryonic stem cells; it is impossible to incorporate live materials into a skincare product. Instead, companies are creating products with specialized peptides and enzymes or plant stem cells which, when applied topically on the surface, help protect the human skin stem cells from damage and deterioration or stimulate the skin’s own stem cells. National was one of the few companies who actually incorporated into their skin care an enzyme secreted from human embryonic stem cells, but they are in the process of switching over to use non-embryonic stem cells from which to take the beneficial enzyme.
Stem cells have the remarkable potential to develop into many different cell types in the body. When a stem cell divides, it can remain a stem cell or become another type of cell with a more specialized function, such as a skin cell. There are two types of stem cells, embryonic and adult.
Embryonic stem cells are exogenous in that they are harvested from outside sources, namely, fertilized human eggs. Once harvested, these pluripotent stem cells are grown in cell cultures and manipulated to generate specific cell types so they can be used to treat injury or disease.
Unlike embryonic stem cells, adult or multipotent stem cells are endogenous. They are present within our bodies and serve to maintain and repair the tissues in which they are found. Adult stem cells are found in many organs and tissues, including the skin. In fact, human skin is the largest repository of adult stem cells in the body. Skin stem cells reside in the basal layer of the epidermis where they remain dormant until they are activated by tissue injury or disease. 1
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There is controversy surrounding the use of stem cells, as some experts say that any product that claims to affect the growth of stem cells or the replication process is potentially dangerous, as it may lead to out-of-control replication or mutation. Others object to using embryonic stem cells from an ethical point of view. Some researchers believe that the use of stem cell technology for a topical, anti-aging cosmetic trivializes other, more important medical research in this field.
The skin stem cells are found near hair follicles and sweat glands and lie dormant until they “receive” signals from the body to begin the repair mode. In skincare, the use of topical products stimulates the stem cell to split into two types of cells: a new, similar stem cell and a “daughter” cell, which is able to create almost every kind of new cell in a specialized system. This means that the stem cell can receive the message to create proteins, carbohydrates and lipids to help repair fine lines, wrinkles and restore and maintain firmness and elasticity.1
To try lifecell anti-aging treatment free for 30 days visit: http://www.stem-cell-skin.creamforaging.com
Studies show that aging and damage from UV rays and pollution cause a decrease in stem-cell production. Pincelli and LVMH laboratories in 2008 identified key ingredients with the ability to protect the stem cells from external factors and produced In lab tests, skin samples collected from cosmetic-surgery patients showed more stem cells in the areas where cream had been applied. because it protects existing stem cells from damage, not because it increased the number of stem cells.. Says Dr. Pincelli ‘That power is absolutely vital for epidermal regeneration and for maintaining the skin’s youthful appearance’. 4
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According to Petrikovsky, fetal skin heals in a completely different way to adult
“Adult skin heals via an inflammatory response, involving macrophages and type 1 collagen. On the other hand, fetal skin, when it is healing, relies heavily on the skin’s stem cells and fibroblasts”. One of the most important differences between adult and fetal skin is the fact that fetal skin heals without scarring. A wrinkle is a small wound, For this reason Petrikovsky has been looking at ways we can activate the adult stem cells in the skin to perform in similar ways to those in fetal skin. One substance he has found that can upregulate the stem cell activity of adult skin is an amino acid chain derived from the Wharton Jelly, a gelatinous substance found in the umbilical cord. This upregulation ensures the fibroblast dominance over the inflammatory process during skin repair, mimicking the process that occurs in fetal skin, healing without a scar or wrinkle.5
Emerge Labs new allows plant stem cells to preserve and protect skin stem cells. a novel plant cell culture technology has been invented to cultivate dedifferentiated callus cells from a rare Swiss apple. These apple stem cells are rich in epigenetic factors and metabolites, assuring the longevity of skin cells. The Skin Stem Cell Serum protects longevity and combats chronological aging while delaying senescence of skin cells, preserving the youthful look and vitality of one’s skin.
The Institute for Biotechnological Research (IRB) has released an anti-aging ingredient based on”As edelweiss grows in harsh climates it is obliged to produce a number of active substances that help protect against the elements such as UV rays,” IRB’s Francesca Melandri says. The edelweiss active harnesses the protective substances the plant uses to defend itself against harsh climatic and environmental conditions and uses them to protect the skin,. According to the Italian company. the ingredient, Leontopodium alpinum stems, has high concentrations of leontopodic acids A and B which have strong antioxidant properties. IRB also claims the product has strong anti-collagenase and hyaluronidase actvity, therefore helping to limit the degradation of collagen and hyaluronic acid in the skin.
<!– –>The company uses what it refers to as its HTN technology to produce the ingredients in industrial quantities. A small amount of plant biomass is chopped into tiny pieces and placed in a culture medium. Damaging the plant in this way causes the cells that surround the damage to de-differentiate (to turn back into stem cells) and form a wound healing tissue called the callus.
The callus is then harvested and grown in a cell culture medium and from this IRB obtains the plant stem cells and consequently the secondary metabolites they need for their products.
Although the technology is well known, the challenge lies in successfully scaling up the production of the stem cells to industrial quantities – a problem IRB claims to have solved with its HTN technology. 6
has come out with its Cell Renewal Night Cream, Reset Serum, Cell Rebuilding Daytime Cream, and Repair Eye Contour Cream
According to the company, uses active plant cells from rare, 100% organic, nutrient-rich plants to create new cells of the highest in purity and nutrients.These new cells are able to deliver high concentrations of lipids, proteins, amino-acids and phytoalexins. They are easily absorbed into the outermost cells of the epidermis, allowing for almost immediate skin cell renewal, nutrient absorption, and an increase in the skin’s level of filaggrin proteins. According to the company, “conventional plant cell extraction is only able to obtain these nutrients in smaller and far less potent quantities. Traditional plant cell cloning uses harsh chemicals or pollutants to reproduce active cells.
XTEMcell products are made from cloned stem cells from the date palm, chosen for cloning because of its unparalleled ability to live and thrive in the desert in the driest, most arid areas and be able to remain hydrated and conserve water. Xtemcell cloned these desirable properties and created a series of age-maintenance skincare products that contain 100% organic stem cells that promote a superior moisturization of the skin.
<!– –> is pursuing a different route to younger looking skin. It’s subsidiary is producing anti-aging products that incorporate tropelastin secreted from human embryonic stem cells. National Stem Cell changed its name to a month after launching a stem cell based cosmeceutical line in Aug 2008.7
The company claims the ingredient enhances the natural formation of collagen and binds with existing protein chains in the skin to make it appear smoother and firmer.
Tropelastin already affects skin appearance naturally in pregnant women. The inspiration for the products came from the natural glow of women post-conception, caused by the release of the chemical from embryonic stem cells.
The company says that the products escape the health risk warning flags out because they do not affect the growth of stem cells. However, the products formulated by Decouverte Cosmetique may be particularly controversial from an ethical or moral point of view because the active ingredient is sourced from human embryonic stem cells. However, National Stem Cell says that all the stem cells used were harvested before 2001 and none were destroyed or created in the development of the products. The company is also in the final stages of discovering how to source the key material from non-embryonic stem cells thereby weakening the ethical barrier to commercialization. 8
Thus we can see that there are already many choices in skin care products with specialized peptides and enzymes or plant stem cells which, when applied topically stimulate the skin’s own stem cells. Expect many more good choices to be developed in the years to come!
To try lifecell anti-aging treatment free for 30 days visit: http://www.stem-cell-skin.creamforaging.com
References
1. Stem Cells in Skin Care…www.Creamforaging.com
2. Coleman, Claire, “Could stem cell cream be future of face care?” www.dailymail.co.uk 3/20/07
3. Ruscitton, Cynthia” Stem Cell Technology Enters the Anti-Aging Skin Care Market”, ezinearticles, 4/18/07
4. Hancock, Liz, “Facing the future”, www.Telegraph.co.uk., 1/11/08
5. Bird, Katie ” Stem cell technology is the ‘new age of anti-aging’ skincare, say top scientists at HBA”, www.Cosmeticsdesign.com 9/10/08
6. Bird, Katie, “Edelweiss stem cells could help in the fight against ageing”,www.Cosmeticsdesign.com, 10/22/08
7. Montague-Jones, Guy, Biotech firm changes name after stem cell cosmetics launch”, Cosmeticsdesign.com. 8/26/08
8. Montague-Jones, Guy “National Stem Cell exploits anti-aging qualities of stem cells”, www.Cosmeticsdesign.com, 4/24/08
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Benefits of stem cells in menstrual blood over embryonic stem cells
Benefits of stem cells in menstrual blood over embryonic stem cells
Stem cells are the cells that have the capability to divide rapidly and generate into several other cell types. These can be heart, liver, blood cells and many others forming an organ to cure some severe diseases. These have been harvested from the adult tissue or human embryo from a long time. However, the use of embryo stem cells has been an issue of great controversy. Many politicians claim that the involves usage of embryonic stem cells which is not ethical. Scientists on the other hand say that the embryo used for research is donated by couples with their own consent. To solve this dispute, scientists are making efforts to find other sources for the extraction of stem cells
Following this, the scientists stepped into the research that stem cells found in possess the same functions and effectiveness as that possessed by the embryonic stem cells. This has appeared to be a good alternative for hESCs. The study conducted by team of doctors that is headed by Dr. Hinduja proved that menstrual blood is rich source of stem cells with the property of differentiation as that of embryonic stem cells. These findings thus have provided a huge relief to the scientists all around the world due to ban on the embryonic stem cells study.
The embryonic cells are collected from the embryo that is four to six days old while menstrual cells are extracted from a woman from the day of beginning of menstrual cycle. Another interesting fact is that the cells can be collected for more than thirty years. The assumption of the study is that a new line of endometrium which is the lining of uterus is formed at the time of menstrual period. So, they form new cells every month and thus there are huge chances of the presence of the stem cells. The menstrual blood stem cells can turn into different tissues such as lung, bone, brain, liver, pancreas, blood vessels and heart at a rapid rate.
The uses of adult stem cells were recommended earlier but it was found that the adult stem cells are not capable to grow in a rapid number like embryonic cells. Later on when there started growing many controversies for usage of embryonic cells, menstrual blood stem cells gave a new hope to scientists for carrying further research. The collection of menstrual blood is an easy process. The method is hassle free and painless. A kit is available that is provided by leading organizations devoted in this field. The usage does not require any technical knowledge.
There are further being made much advancement to find out some benefits of stem cells in menstrual blood. Several new devices are being discovered in this field today. One device named Mademoicell is the combination of condom and tampon. The device is actually a thick and artsy condom that is inserted to absorb menstrual blood. The blood is then collected to extract the stem cells that keep the capability to grow into tissue and cure many severe diseases. This study is also an answer to those who have been raising questions on the use of human embryonic stem cells.
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Embryonic Stem Cells Research Debate
Embryonic Stem Cells Research Debate
Suddenly, stem cells are everywhere. Once referred mostly in health journals, these microscopic clusters have made their way into news, research reports, business reports etc. The complexity surrounding these relatively simple cells has increased every second.
Recent studies suggest these cells may hold the secret to treatment, even cures for some of our most inexplicable diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Embryonic stem cells are controversial. They come from the inner cell mass of a blastocyst (term for a fertilized egg). At the heart of the stem cell debate is a battle – over abortion as, these are cells from embryos. According to the religious orthodoxy, an embryo is life. But these cells also hold great promise for millions of ailing patients and their families. Moreover, many of the embryos would otherwise be unceremoniously discarded.
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Until very recently, the vast majority of stem cells used in research came from discarded (or excess) embryos stored at in-vitro fertilization clinics. If potential parents decide against having more children, scientists working with stem cells might ask them to consider donating the unneeded embryos to research.
Adult stem cells taken from the blood or organs of healthy adults have recently demonstrated an unexpected adaptability in lab experiments. But these cells are marginally helpful to scientists, and do not show the same promise as those culled from embryos. Adult cells are fairly set in their ways, and don’t seem to grow or replicate themselves as quickly as their younger counterparts.
New techniques for gathering the cells are in quiet development; scientists are generally wary of disclosure, because public reaction is difficult to predict. Revelations that scientists at a privately-funded fertility clinic are growing human embryos with the intent of harvesting stem cells have provoked widespread hand-wringing, among both advocates and opponents of stem cell research. Advocates worry that publicizing such a blatant and systematic cell harvesting procedure can only harden hearts against the science; in the crude terms of public relations, using stem cells from discarded embryos is one thing, but purposefully creating an embryo only to dismantle it is something else altogether. Opponents of the research see the clinic’s methodology as the best indication yet that we are carelessly sliding down the slippery slope of destroying human life in order to advance our scientific curiosity.
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Embryonic Stem Cells Research.
Stem Cell Therapy Anti-aging cream the next generation of skin care
Stem Cell Therapy Anti-aging cream the next generation of skin care
If you are worried that your age is showing on your face, the remedy is here. With the advent of medical science there is nothing that is impossible. Even reverse aging is a possibility now. With the increased amount of research for cancer therapy, there have been many side inventions that actually help you restore your lost youth. With the use of stem cell therapy, you have found an elixir of life that returns the glow and youthfulness to your skin.
The use of stem cell therapy has been quite controversial but so far no harmful effects have observed. Stem cell treatment has been used to repair damaged tissues by the growth and proliferation of these specialized cells called stem cells. The directed action of stem cells lead to their potential for repair and treatment of damaged tissues.
When this therapy is used in skin care creams the mechanism of action is slightly different. Rather than using embryonic stem cells or materials from live cells, scientists are using peptides or enzymes that are synthetic or derived from plant sources. This new innovation actually has the potential to turn around the aging clock and make you forget that you were ever aging. It might seem miraculous, but in this scientific age nothing is impossible. In the human body, the role of stem cells is to proliferate when there is an injury to the skin or internal organs. This serves to repair the injury. When it comes to the skin, stem cells are used to undo the damage caused to the skin by exposure to sunlight or UV. The natural aging of the skin also leads to damage, which can be taken care of by use of this stem cell therapy. Stem cell creams have the power to protect the epidermal layer of the skin, by regeneration of the skin cells, and maintaining the youthful appearance of the skin.
This process has been frowned upon in ethical terms as many people feel that using such important research for the purpose of making one look young is gross misuse and trivializes medical research. However the technology has been hailed eagerly by many as it is a quick solution to keep oneself looking healthy and young, and holding on to youth per say.
Stem cell therapy is a new innovation that can take years off your face in a jiffy. With age the skin loses its capacity to renew itself, and requires the age of external agents to protect itself from the damage accumulated with age. Some of the components of the stem cell therapy creams have the capacity to act as anti-oxidants and nullify the effects of factors that cause lines and wrinkles. Stem cell therapy restores to the skin its original glow and allure and ensures that you look sixteen at sixty. The regenerative power of the cream is used to refresh the skin and control the accelerating damage which is caused to the skin through environmental factors such as exposure to the UV rays of the sun.
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Posted in Stem Cell Therapy Cream | Tags: AntiAging, care, Cell, Cream, generation, next, Skin, Stem, Therapy | No Comments »
Embryonic stem cells – Potential unfulfilled
Embryonic stem cells – Potential unfulfilled
The term stem cell was coined by Alexander Maksimov, a Russian scientist. When the world was first introduced to this term, no one knew about its potential. It has taken so many years just to make people around the world realize the full potential of a stem cell. A stem cell consists of two types of cells – Embryonic stem cell (ESC’s) and Adult stem cell (ASC’s). Of the two, ESC’s have been the controversial kind. You can consider them as the eminem of the stem cells world. The more you talk about embryonic stem cells, the more controversial the situation becomes. To tell you the truth, more than anything else this is a sad situation. These cells have the ability to develop into whoever they want and can be used in treating diseases that are crippling the hell out of people. Yes I know this is not an easy task and even if this so called ban is removed, making them viable for therapy or treatment is still far from possible.
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The world spends billions and billions of dollars in research every year with no hardening result. Scientists are working round the clock to eradicate some of the most dangerous diseases in the form of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s or even cancer. There has been evidence that stem cells are involved in causing cancer, but this does not mean we should stop trying. After nearly a decade of research, there are no approved treatments using embryonic stem cells. This is a difficult task to complete but with less of negativity surrounding the issue and more of hard work, everything is possible.
I have always been fascinated by stem cells as they have the ability to develop into various types of cells, a property that would help change the world for the better.
Aman Toor.
Posted in Embryonic Stem Cells | Tags: Cells, Embryonic, Potential, Stem, unfulfilled | No Comments »
Human Immunodeficiency Virus Positive Man Cured By Bone Marrow Stem Cell Transplant! How?
Human Immunodeficiency Virus Positive Man Cured By Bone Marrow Stem Cell Transplant! How?
Who would have thought 10 years ago that there would be a cure for AIDS? Well, according to the Journal Watch: HIV/AIDS Clinical Care, February 13, 2009, a 40-year-old HIV positive male German patient with Leukemia underwent bone marrow stem cell transplantation, which completely eradicated the virus from his body, 2 years later. Removing HIV was not the main reason why the patient underwent the risky procedure, doctors at the Berlin Charité Hospital said.
The principal reason was to treat the patient for leukemia, a disease characterized by an uncontrollable increase or proliferation of malformed leukocytes and their precursors in the bone marrow and peripheral blood, caused by malignancy of the blood forming organs, National Institute of Health. Therefore, it was very unexpected to witnessed the complete absence of any HIV RNA traces, according to the doctors.
The process of transplanting healthy bone marrows into people with HIV, have been done many times before without any success of removing the virus from the body. So, one can understand why these doctors were not necessarily trying to use the procedure to cure the patient of AIDS, but instead, were trying to cure him of his leukemia problem.
Sometimes this is how a cure is achievedâby sheer accident. Well, mankind has one on its hands as we speak. One might be wondering what is so different about this bone marrow transplant and others done before it. The key ingredient is a defective version of the white blood cell protein chemokine receptor “CCR5.” This protein receptor and CXCR4 are both present on CD4 T-Cells and a few other immune system cells.
The HIV virus generally enters the white blood cell via the CCR5 receptor or the CXCR4 receptor. However, if the CCR5 or CXCR4 receptors are defective, the virus cannot access the T-Cells to infect them. HIV infections via the CXCR4 receptors are rare, but they do occur by variant strains of the virus, The Lancet, May 22nd 2002.
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Our discussion will therefore focus on the CCR5 receptor. A very large percent of people have normal amounts of CCR5 receptors on their CD4 T-Cells. A few of us have limited or partial amounts while some of us have none at all. Well, in this instance, it pays to have none. People who have limited amounts of the CCR5 receptor are heterozygous for the gene that codes for it.
A gene is a small segment of a double helical DNA. The DNA itself contains two strands of nucleotides base pairs that are twisted in a spiral shape like a rope. The only difference is that there are only two strands within the DNA helix while there are several within the rope’s helix.
It is therefore a segment of this helix that is termed, the gene. It is just like cutting a small segment from a rope and examining the characteristics of that segment from the rope. In our case, we will be examining the piece of the DNA that codes for the CCR5 receptor, which is also a protein. We will find that in heterozygous individuals, only one section from one strand of the DNA codes for the defective CCR5 receptor, while the opposite section on the other strand of the DNA does not code for a defective version but codes for the normal CCR5 receptor, which facilitates easy HIV infection.
People who are homozygous in relationship to the defective genetic segment (32-bp deletion) on the DNA are therefore totally immune to the CCR5 mode of HIV infection. And if those people were ever going to get HIV, they will have to be infected with a HIV variant that strictly invades the CXCR4 receptor instead of the CCR5 receptor.
On the other hand, individuals who have normal proportions of CCR5 receptors on their CD4 T-Cells with no heterozygosity or homozygosity are 100% more susceptible to HIV infection. In fact, there are tests that can be done to determine whether or not a person is heterozygous or homozygous for the defective CCR5 gene.
The HIV positive patient who was cured by the stem cell transplant was given a stem cell that was taken from a person who was homozygous for the CCR5 deletion on his/her gene. Deletion means that the normal base pairings of the DNA segments (genes) was changed into something else that does not code for anything. It is not all segments on a DNA that codes for something useful. Therefore, this is why the CCR5 receptor does not work and is therefore defective.
Sometimes certain portions of the DNA are stop codes, blanks or codes that do not provide instructions to make any proteins. A perfect example of this is trying to build a car without a blueprint or a schematic. It does not matter how much material is available. If there is no instruction of how to build cars, there will be no cars built. Our example is the same way. The DNA and segments (gene) of the DNA are blueprints that cells use to build different proteins for the body.
The HIV positive patient in our discussion was obviously infected with the HIV strain that specifically uses the CCR5 receptor has its mode of entry into the CD4 T-cells. This patient will not be infected with HIV again unless he is exposed to an HIV variant that uses the CXCR4 mode of infection or something totally different. This scenario is very unlikely provided that the patient refrain from risky sexual behaviors.
Posted in Stem Cell Transplant | Tags: Bone, Cell, Cured, Human, Immunodeficiency, Marrow, Positive, Stem, Transplant, Virus | No Comments »