~ by Michelle Tonkin ND
What are Stem Cells?
Stem cells are a term that is starting to become more popular in today’s modern world, but what exactly are they? Stem cells are cells that can either stay undesignated or become specialized to help the body with regeneration. Basically, they are: “cells from which all other cells with specialized functions are generated” – https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/bone-marrow-transplant/in-depth/stem-cells/art-20048117
This can mean that they can produce cells which work in the brain, heart, muscle, blood etc. Only stem cells have the ability to produce other type of cells.
Why do we need Stem Cells?
Our body is made from stem cells. In the embryonic state, stem cells help our body by producing all of the different cells that we will need to function from our brain, heart, lungs etc. It’s what makes up our bodies. Stem cells like those found in bone marrow, can also help us regenerate those cells in our bodies that can be lost through injury or just the ravages of time.
What can Stem Cells help with?
Because of stem cells amazing capability of regeneration, scientists are excited about the possibilities of what stem cells can mean for the future of medicine.
Stem cell therapy has been used for around forty years in clinical studies as well as therapy for leukemia, lymphoma or even those needing skin grafts. Starting in the 2000’s stem cell therapy has been utilized for those with degenerative eye conditions or even neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. The potential for stem cells can be seen in the picture below.
Where can we get stem cell therapy?
There are a few ways that individuals can get stem cell therapy. Some of these can be controversial and/or costly.
Embryonic stem cells. This is the most versatile of the stem cell therapy, but also controversial. These stem cells are from the embryos that are 3-5 days old. These types of cells are able become any type of cell the body needs and can be used to repair or regenerate organs or tissue. These stem cells come from donated embryos “that were fertilized at in vitro fertilization clinics but never implanted in women's uteruses. The stem cells are donated with informed consent from donors. The stem cells can live and grow in special solutions in test tubes or petri dishes in laboratories” ~ https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/bone-marrow-transplant/in-depth/stem-cells/art-20048117
Adult stem cells
Found in smaller numbers like the bone marrow or fat, but do not have the same versatility as the embryonic stem cells in converting to different cells. However, science has found that although limited in the types of cells it can produce, these stem cells may be able to produce more than one type. I.e. Bone marrow stem may be able to help produce cells for the heart. Adult stem cells are not typically used as they are not versatile like the embryonic stem cells and are limited in how they can help in therapies. These stem cells may also be subject to issues such as environmental pollutants, toxins copying errors etc. and as such may have amoralities.
Adult cells altered to have properties of embryonic stem cells.
Using genetic programming, scientists are taking adult stem cells and reprogramming them to perform like that of embryonic stem cells. This type of therapy however is still in experimental phase and scientists are unsure of its effects. However, it may help prevent the body from rejecting these stem cells.
Perinatal stem cells.
These are stems cells that exists either in the umbilical cord blood or amniotic fluid. These cells are able to become different cells according to the body’s needs.
Risks?
Although there are potential benefits to stem cell therapy, it is not without risks.
“The Pew Charitable Trusts gathered 360 reports of adverse events related to unapproved stem cell therapies, including 20 cases that caused death.4 Further, adverse events are likely underreported because these products are not FDA approved or regulated. Many unproven stem cell-based therapies cost thousands of dollars to patients and are not covered by insurance.” ~https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/what-we-do/science-health-public-trust/perspectives/putting-stem-cell-based-therapies-context
Alternative solutions
With all of the benefits of stem cells, it is not surprising that individuals are looking for a way to increase stem cell production in the body. Unfortunately stem cell therapy is still being researched, is costly, and can have adverse reactions. Thankfully, there is a company that has created a revolutionary product which enables your body to help produce its own stem cells. For more information on this patented and science-based product click here
Also enjoy this video which explains a little on how this amazing product works.
Stem cells are amazing and the body’s natural way of helping us to regenerate. As research continues to improve and advances are made in science, stem cell therapy will become one of the modern ways to increase longevity and overall wellness.
References: