Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine

Applications of Stem Cells

Following are the important applications of stem cells:

Tissue Regeneration: This is the most important application of stem cells. The stem cells can be used to grow a specific type of tissue or organ. This can be helpful in kidney and liver transplants. The doctors have already used the stem cells from beneath the epidermis to develop skin tissue that can repair severe burns or other injuries by tissue grafting.

Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease: A team of researchers has developed blood vessels in mice using human stem cells. Within two weeks of implantation, the blood vessels formed their network and were as efficient as the natural vessels.

Treatment of Brain Diseases: Stem cells can also treat diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s. These can help to replenish the damaged brain cells. Researchers have tried to differentiate embryonic stem cells into these types of cells and make it possible to treat diseases.

Blood Disease Treatment: Adult hematopoietic stem cells are used to treat cancers, sickle cell anemia, and other immunodeficiency diseases. These stem cells can be used to produce red blood cells and white blood cells in the body.