Stem Cells

Stem cells have the unique ability to divide repeatedly and to change into other types of specialized cells. So, they can produce new cells to replace damaged or lost cells. There are three main types of stem cells. Embryonic stem cells supply new cells for the growing embryo. As pluripotent cells, they can change into any cell in­­­­­ the body. A­­­­dult stem cells supply new cells to the growing organisms and replace damaged cells. Adult stem cells are multipotent meaning they can only change into some types of cells. Adult blood stem cells can only replace cells in the blood. Skin stem cells can only provide cells for the skin and hair. The third type of stem cell is induced pluripotent stem cells or iPS cells. iPS are made in a laboratory by reprogramming regular adult cells to become stem cells. Stem cells are useful for studying various phenomena. Stem cells are already used in a few treatments such as replacement of retinal pigment epithelium, thalassemia and to treat children with leukemia. In the future stem cells may be used to replace cells and tissues damaged by disease, injury, or genetics.

Source: YourGenome.org

What is the Potential of Stem Cell Treatment for PD? (YouTube Webinar)

This webinar is a recording of a live broadcast that took place in June 2019 and consisted of a panel discussion on cell-based therapy for PD. Chairing the panel is Professor Patrik Brundin. The panel of experts includes Gaynor Edwards, a person affected by PD; Parkinson’s neurologist, Clair Henchcliffe and Dr. Roger Barker, consultant neurologist. The panel discusses what kind of stem-cells exist; the source of stem-cells; the uses of stem-cells, and specifically dopamine stem-cells. The panel talks about current trials and the timeline for when stem-cells will be a viable treatment for PD. One of the issues raised is whether we will be able to produce stem-cells in large enough quantities. The panel of experts takes questions from viewers and gives answers on subjects like stem-cell tourist and the cost of treatment. The final word on the subject is that despite the cost of potential stem-cell treatment it will save money spent on the medical care of untreated patients in the long term.