Medical News
September 1, 2005

Scientists believe that they could produce embryonic-like stem cells from umbilical cord blood in order to treat people with diseases.

A group of experts from the UK and the US have discovered that cells from the umbilical cord may be able to be used in the same way as embryonic stem cells, which have the potential to turn into any type of human tissue.

If correct, this could prove to be a major step for current stem cell research since it would allow the medical profession to avoid using embryonic stem cells, which are mired in controversy. It would also bring fresh hope to patients awaiting treatment for a range of illnesses, including diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis. Dr Colin McGuckin, director of the Stem Cell Therapy Programme at Kingston University and one of the experts conducting the study, said: "Acquiring stem cells from embryos has major limitations because it is difficult to obtain enough cells to transplant as well as getting the right tissue type for the patient.

Using cord blood gets over that obstacle because we can produce more stem cells and, with a global birth rate of 100 million babies a year, there is a better chance of getting the right tissue type for the many patients out there waiting for stem cell therapy," Dr McGuckin added.

The research has not yet proved that these cells have the potential to develop into any type of cell, which is the characteristic of a true stem cell.

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