Why Is Cord Blood Stored? What is its purpose? Cord blood is rich in hematopoietic stem cells and is used in the treatment of various diseases.
Cord blood refers to the blood collected from the remaining part after the cord between the baby and the placenta is cut during birth. This blood contains a high percentage of hematopoietic (blood-forming) stem cells. Hematopoietic stem cells have the capacity to produce various blood cells and cells that make up the immune system. The primary purpose of storing cord blood is to preserve these valuable stem cells for future medical use. Here are the main purposes and potential uses for storing cord blood:
Why is Cord Blood Stored ?
Cord blood is a valuable blood source collected from the umbilical cord between the baby and the placenta during birth. This blood is of great importance for medical research and treatments thanks to its rich hematopoietic stem cell content. Hematopoietic stem cells can produce various blood cells in the body and cells that make up the immune system. This feature is one of the main reasons why cord blood is stored. Nowadays, many families choose to save cord blood for the future health needs of their children or family members.
The most important reason for storing cord blood is the potential medical uses of the stem cells it contains. Cord blood stem cells are used especially in the treatment of blood and immune system diseases. These cells show promise in the treatment of various blood diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma and thalassemia. Additionally, conditions such as metabolic disorders, some types of cancer and immune system diseases can be treated with cord blood stem cells.
Storage of cord blood is accomplished through two main methods: private banking and public banking. In private cord blood banking, families store their own children’s cord blood for a special fee. This method provides access to a rapid and compatible source of stem cells in case a family member needs stem cell treatment in the future. On the other hand, public cord blood banks store donated cord blood publicly and these blood can be used for patients in need. Public banking increases genetic diversity, providing treatments for a wider range of diseases.
The future of cord blood storage is directly linked to advances in stem cell research. As scientists better understand the regenerative properties of stem cells and develop new treatment methodologies, the potential uses of cord blood are expanding. Especially in the field of regenerative medicine, cord blood stem cells; It could be used to develop promising treatments for heart disease, diabetes, neurological disorders and many other conditions.
Storage of cord blood is a practice of great importance for medical science. Through both private and public banking methods, it plays a critical role in the development of effective treatments for future health problems. It is important for families and medical professionals to carefully consider the advantages, costs, and ethics of storing cord blood. It is hoped that this valuable resource will save more lives and contribute to the treatment of diseases in the future.