Stem cell therapy is a relatively new field in modern medicine. Although it has attracted considerable attention because of its potential, its practical use remains limited. In the United States, only a small number of stem cell treatments have been authorized for patients. One example is the treatment of leukemia, a type of blood cancer, which is among the conditions for which the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has permitted hospitals to provide treatment.

For many people, these limitations are disappointing because stem cell therapy has demonstrated significant potential in other areas of medicine. It is considered a possible treatment approach for conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, and more complex disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Research in this field is still continuing, and it is possible that stem cell therapy will become available for a wider range of conditions in the future. To understand why this area of medicine is relatively new and why its use remains limited, it is helpful to first understand what stem cells are.

The Blank Slate

For many years, stem cells existed primarily as a medical concept rather than a proven scientific reality. Nevertheless, scientists understood that cells with unique capabilities had to exist because human development would otherwise be impossible.

Under normal circumstances, most cells in the human body produce new cells of the same type. For example, skin cells generate new skin cells to replace those lost or damaged through injuries. Hair cells likewise produce new hair cells when hair is lost.

A skin cell cannot normally develop into a brain cell. Some types of cells, including heart cells, also have very limited ability to reproduce, which means that damage to the heart can be permanent.

Human development presents a different situation. During pregnancy, a baby develops from a fertilized egg even though the specialized cells that make up the skin, bones, lungs, blood, and other organs do not yet exist. The fertilized egg eventually produces cells that develop into the different tissues and organs of the body.

These unique cells are known as stem cells, although medical science was unable to identify them for many years.

The Breakthrough

A major step forward came in 1981, when researchers isolated stem cells during experiments involving mice.

Martin Evans, a researcher at Cambridge University in the United Kingdom, became the first scientist to identify embryonic stem cells in mice. He subsequently isolated the cells, modified them, and transplanted them into female mice.

The experiment was successful. The genetically modified stem cells developed in the female mice and resulted in offspring that had been scientifically altered. This demonstrated that stem cells could not only be identified but also modified and used, at least in laboratory mice.

The Human Equation

It took considerably longer to achieve a similar breakthrough with human cells. In 1998, researchers succeeded in identifying, isolating, modifying, and growing specifically cultured human stem cells.

Two research teams achieved this independently. James Thomson at the University of Wisconsin and John Gearhart at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore both successfully isolated and grew human stem cells.

As knowledge of stem cells increased, the research also became the subject of public debate. The initial work involved embryonic cells that were no longer needed for in vitro fertilization (IVF). Obtaining these cells resulted in the destruction of the embryo, which became an important source of controversy.

The Barriers Drop

In 2001, the President of the United States, George W. Bush, introduced restrictions on stem cell research because of ethical and religious concerns.

Stem cell lines that had already been cultured and developed through earlier experiments could continue to be used, but researchers were not permitted to obtain new sources for cultivation.

This created a significant obstacle for scientists because the available material for research became more limited. As a result, progress in the field slowed.

More Discoveries

Despite these restrictions, the potential of stem cell research and therapy continued to drive significant developments in medical science.

In 2007, researchers successfully reprogrammed stem cells. Two years later, in 2009, President Barack Obama removed the restrictions on stem cell research.

Research into the use of stem cells for spinal injuries was conducted in 2010, while research into treating blindness began in 2012.

The Current State

In the United States, stem cell treatment remains largely associated with research, with leukemia being one of the treatments available to the public. Other countries, including Georgia, offer stem cell therapy.

This type of treatment requires a supply of stem cells that is biologically compatible with the patient.

Stem cells used in this approach may come from the mother’s womb after a child is born. When such a source is not available, stem cells may instead come from a close genetic relative, such as a sibling born to the same mother at a later time.

Stem cells can also be obtained from bone marrow. However, bone marrow stem cells are not pluripotent like embryonic stem cells and are therefore less versatile.

What Are Own (Autologous) Stem Cells?

Stem cells are fundamental cells of the human body. They serve as a basis from which cells of different organs, tissues, and systems can develop. Because of this ability, stem cells can be compared to the body’s natural “spare parts,” helping restore elements that have been damaged.

The amount of stem cells available in the body is limited, which makes their careful selection important.

Stem cells can be obtained from bone marrow or from the circulatory system. Another possible source is umbilical cord blood, provided that it was collected and preserved in a cryobank.

Autologous stem cells are cells taken from the patient’s own body. Their use does not normally trigger an immunological response because the cells belong to the same person. This distinguishes them from allogeneic stem cells obtained from a donor. Donor cells may be recognized by the immune system as foreign and can therefore be rejected. To reduce this risk, an appropriately compatible donor must be selected, which can be difficult.

When Did Medicine Begin Using Stem Cells?

The first stem cell transplantation was carried out by Dr. Don Thomas in 1969 in an attempt to treat leukemia. The procedure was successful, and Dr. Thomas was later awarded the Nobel Prize for his work.

The basic principle of cell therapy is to support the renewal or restoration of an organ, tissue, or body system by introducing healthy cells that may support the function of damaged or diseased tissues.

Today, stem cell therapies and related cellular technologies are being investigated and used in a number of medical fields. These include certain blood and immune system disorders, neurological conditions, hereditary disorders, tissue injuries, musculoskeletal disorders, ophthalmological conditions, and other complex medical conditions.

Use of Own Stem Cells for Various Medical Conditions

Autologous cell therapy is being explored as a potential therapeutic approach for a wide range of medical conditions.

Depending on the patient’s condition and treatment goals, reported or observed outcomes may include:

• Support for tissue regeneration and repair.
• Potential improvement in certain functional abilities.
• Support for neurological and cognitive functions in selected patients.
• Improvement in mobility and physical functioning in appropriate cases.
• Support for the body’s natural regenerative processes.
• Potential reduction of inflammation.
• Improvement in overall quality of life.

The potential effects of treatment depend on the underlying condition, the patient’s individual characteristics, the source and quality of the stem cells, and the specific treatment protocol.

Prospects for the Development of Own Stem Cell Therapy

Doctors and researchers around the world continue to study and improve cell therapy technologies for the treatment and management of various diseases and medical conditions.

The development of regenerative medicine may expand the range of conditions for which autologous stem cell therapies can be considered. Ongoing research is focused on understanding how stem cells interact with damaged tissues, how they may support the body’s natural repair mechanisms, and how treatment protocols can be made safer and more individualized.

As research progresses, own stem cell therapy may become an increasingly important part of personalized and regenerative medicine.

Umbilical cord blood is a valuable biological material that remains in the umbilical cord and placenta after childbirth. It contains hematopoietic stem cells and other cells that have important applications in modern medicine and regenerative therapies.

Because cord blood can be collected at the time of birth and preserved for future medical use, it is sometimes considered a form of biological insurance. Unlike many other sources of stem cells, umbilical cord blood can be collected without a surgical procedure and without affecting the mother or newborn.

What Are Cord Blood Stem Cells?

Cord blood stem cells are primarily hematopoietic stem cells, which are capable of developing into different types of blood and immune system cells.

These cells have been used in transplant medicine for many years, particularly in the treatment of certain blood, immune system, and genetic disorders. Researchers are also studying the potential applications of cord blood-derived cells in regenerative medicine and a broader range of medical conditions.

The potential value of cord blood lies in the biological properties of its cells and in the possibility of collecting and preserving them for future use.

Why Is Umbilical Cord Blood Important?

Umbilical cord blood is an important source of stem cells because it can be collected immediately after delivery and processed for long-term storage.

Cord blood stem cells may be considered for:

• Certain diseases of the blood and hematopoietic system.
• Selected immune system disorders.
• Certain inherited or genetic conditions.
• Stem cell transplantation when an appropriate match is available.
• Research and developing applications in regenerative medicine.

The suitability of cord blood for a particular medical purpose depends on the individual patient’s condition, medical history, cell characteristics, and the recommendations of qualified specialists.

Cord Blood and Stem Cell Banking

Cord blood banking involves collecting, processing, testing, and cryopreserving cord blood for potential future use.

The process is performed shortly after the umbilical cord is clamped and cut. The collected blood is placed in a sterile collection system and transported to a specialized laboratory for processing.

After laboratory assessment, relevant cells can be isolated and cryopreserved under controlled conditions.

Preserved cord blood may potentially be considered for the person from whom it was collected or, depending on compatibility and medical circumstances, for a family member.

Who Can Benefit From Cord Blood Banking?

Cord blood banking may be of interest to families who want to preserve a biological source of stem cells for potential future medical applications.

It can be particularly relevant when:

• There is a known family history of certain blood or immune system disorders.
• A family member may require a stem cell transplant.
• There is a medical indication to consider preserving a potential source of hematopoietic stem cells.
• A family wants to explore available options for long-term biological storage.

Cord blood banking is not limited to a particular age group or medical condition. The decision to collect and preserve cord blood should be based on individual circumstances and discussed with qualified medical professionals.

How Is Umbilical Cord Blood Collected?

Umbilical cord blood collection is performed after delivery and after the umbilical cord has been clamped and cut.

The procedure does not require blood to be taken from the newborn. Instead, the remaining blood in the umbilical cord and placenta is collected into a sterile, closed collection system.

The collection itself is generally quick and does not interfere with routine post-delivery care.

Once collected, the material is transported to a specialized laboratory for further processing and evaluation.

How Are Cord Blood Stem Cells Processed and Stored?

After collection, the cord blood is delivered to the laboratory under controlled conditions.

The processing procedure may include:

1. Registration and initial assessment of the collected material.
2. Laboratory testing and quality control.
3. Processing and separation of relevant cellular components.
4. Assessment of cell quantity and viability.
5. Cryopreservation using controlled storage conditions.
6. Long-term storage for potential future medical use.

Proper laboratory procedures and controlled cryogenic storage are essential for maintaining the quality of preserved biological material.

Can Cord Blood Be Used for Family Members?

One of the potential advantages of cord blood is that the preserved cells may be considered for use by close biological relatives when an appropriate level of compatibility is present.

However, compatibility is not guaranteed, and the suitability of stored cord blood depends on the specific medical situation and transplantation requirements.

For this reason, cord blood should be viewed as a potential biological resource rather than a guarantee of future treatment.

Cord Blood and Regenerative Medicine

In addition to established applications in hematology and transplantation medicine, cord blood-derived cells continue to be investigated in regenerative medicine.

Researchers are studying how different types of stem and progenitor cells may interact with damaged tissues and support biological repair processes.

Potential areas of investigation include neurological conditions, tissue injuries, immune-related disorders, and other complex medical conditions.

Many of these applications remain under active research, and the effectiveness of a particular cell-based therapy depends on the disease, treatment protocol, and individual patient characteristics.

Why Consider Preserving Umbilical Cord Blood?

The decision to preserve cord blood is a personal and medical choice.

For some families, cord blood banking provides an opportunity to preserve a source of stem cells that may have medical value in the future. Because collection can only take place around the time of birth, this opportunity cannot generally be recreated later.

At the same time, not every stored cord blood sample will necessarily be suitable for every future medical application. The potential benefits should therefore be considered together with medical advice and the applicable storage and processing standards.

Umbilical Cord Blood at Mardaleishvili Medical Centre

At Mardaleishvili Medical Centre, umbilical cord blood can be collected and processed for stem cell preservation in a specialized laboratory environment.

After collection, the biological material is transferred for laboratory processing, where relevant cells are isolated and evaluated before cryopreservation.

For more information about cord blood collection, stem cell processing, storage conditions, and potential medical applications, patients can contact the medical centre and discuss their individual situation with a specialist.

Medical technologies are developing rapidly, and new treatment approaches are being introduced in leading clinics around the world. Stem cell therapy is one of the areas of modern medicine that has attracted significant scientific and clinical interest. But what are human stem cells, and what are they used for?

Stem cells are undifferentiated or partially differentiated cells that have the ability to self-renew and, depending on their type, develop into specialized cells. These properties make them important for normal tissue maintenance, repair, and regeneration and form the basis for their use in various areas of medicine.

The human body consists of many different types of specialized cells. During early development, cells divide and become increasingly specialized, giving rise to the tissues and organs of the body. Throughout life, certain populations of stem and progenitor cells continue to produce new cells and help maintain tissues.

The number and characteristics of stem cells in the human body change throughout life. Some stem cell populations are more abundant or active during early development, while others remain present in specific tissues throughout adulthood.

Types of Stem Cells

Stem cells can be classified according to their origin and stage of development. The main categories include embryonic, fetal, and postnatal (adult) stem cells.

Embryonic stem cells are derived from the early embryo and have the ability to differentiate into many different cell types. Their use is limited by ethical and regulatory considerations because obtaining these cells traditionally involves the destruction of an embryo.

Fetal stem cells are obtained from fetal tissues and have biological characteristics that differ from those of embryonic and adult stem cells. Their use is also subject to ethical and regulatory considerations.

Postnatal (adult) stem cells are found in the body after birth and throughout life. This broad group includes several subtypes, such as hematopoietic stem cells, stromal stem cells, and tissue-specific stem cells. They contribute to the maintenance and repair of tissues and to the production of certain specialized cells.

Umbilical cord blood is another important source of postnatal stem and progenitor cells. It is particularly rich in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells, which can develop into different cells of the blood and immune systems. Cord blood cells are used in established treatments for certain blood and immune disorders and can be collected and stored for potential future medical use.

Stem Cells From Umbilical Cord Blood

Umbilical cord blood is an important source of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. After birth, blood can be collected from the umbilical cord and placenta using an established collection procedure. The collected biological material can then be processed and, where appropriate, stored in a specialized cell or stem cell bank.

For long-term storage, cells are cryopreserved under controlled conditions, typically using liquid nitrogen or liquid-nitrogen-based storage systems. Proper cryopreservation allows the cells to remain viable for extended periods, although their quality and suitability for future use depend on the collection, processing, storage, and clinical requirements.

Stem Cell Therapy

Stem cell-based therapies are being investigated and used in different areas of medicine. Their potential is related to the ability of certain stem cells to produce specialized cells and, in some settings, to support tissue repair and other biological processes.

One of the best-established applications of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is the treatment of certain blood and immune system disorders, including some leukemias and lymphomas. Other applications of stem cells and cell-based therapies continue to be studied in clinical research.

Stem cells and other cellular products may be collected and stored in specialized cryobanks in many countries. Umbilical cord blood, for example, can be collected after birth and preserved for potential future use.

Depending on the type of cells and the clinical situation, stored cells may potentially be used for the person from whom they were collected or, in appropriate cases, for another recipient.

The clinical effect of cell therapy depends on the type of cells used, the underlying condition, the treatment protocol, and individual patient factors. Results may vary, and the potential benefits and risks should be assessed on an individual basis.

Stem cell therapy is not a universal treatment for all diseases. Like any medical procedure, cell-based treatment may have indications, contraindications, limitations, and potential risks. Treatment should therefore be considered only after an appropriate medical evaluation and consultation with a qualified specialist.

At our clinic, autologous stem cells are used in selected treatment protocols. This means that the patient’s own cells are collected and used as part of the treatment approach, where clinically appropriate.

Stem cell therapy should be approached responsibly and based on an individualized medical assessment. Consultation with a specialist is essential before treatment.

How Does Stem Cell Therapy Work?

The mechanisms of stem cell-based therapy depend on the type of cells and the condition being treated.

Some stem cells can self-renew and differentiate into specialized cells. In addition, certain cell populations may release biological signals and interact with surrounding tissues, potentially supporting tissue repair and other regenerative processes.

When cells are administered to a patient, their effects may depend on how they interact with the body’s existing cells and tissues. The exact mechanisms are an active area of scientific research and can differ substantially between different types of cell therapy.

Where Can Stem Cell Treatment Be Provided?

Stem cells and other cellular materials can be stored in specialized cryobanks in different countries. Medical centres with appropriate facilities and expertise may use cell-based therapies as part of selected treatment protocols.

Mardaleishvili Medical Centre is located in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, and provides medical services involving cell therapy technologies.

The centre conducts scientific and clinical research in collaboration with medical institutions and specialists from different countries, with a focus on the potential applications of stem cells and other cell-based approaches in medicine.

The range of conditions for which cell-based therapies are being investigated continues to expand. However, the availability, effectiveness, and clinical indications of a particular treatment depend on the type of cells, the patient’s condition, and the available scientific and clinical evidence.

For more information about stem cell therapy and available treatment options at Mardaleishvili Medical Centre, please contact our specialists.

Stem cell therapy may involve the use of either a patient’s own stem cells or donor-derived stem cells. With autologous therapy, the cells are collected from the patient and prepared for subsequent use. One of the key advantages of using a patient’s own cells is their high biological compatibility with the body, which minimizes the risk of immune rejection.

Donor stem cells, used in allogeneic therapy, are obtained from another person, such as a compatible family member or an appropriate donor. Because these cells come from a different individual, compatibility is an important consideration, and the potential risks and benefits are carefully evaluated before treatment. At Mardaleishvili Medical Centre, both approaches are used, allowing the treatment strategy to be tailored to each patient’s individual condition and medical needs.

Which Type of Stem Cells Is Better?

The choice between own and donor stem cells is not simply a matter of choosing one type over the other. Each approach has its own potential advantages and considerations, and the most suitable option depends on the individual clinical situation. Factors such as the patient’s condition, treatment goals, the quality and availability of their own cells, and the potential suitability of donor cells may all play a role in the decision.

There is no single approach that is best for every patient. At Mardaleishvili Medical Centre, both autologous and donor stem cell therapies are available. Our specialists evaluate each patient individually and recommend the most appropriate cell source based on their medical needs and treatment plan.