How are stem cells being used in medicine?
Stem cell-based therapies are being investigated for the treatment of many conditions, including neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease and Multiple Sclerosis, liver disease, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune diseases, musculoskeletal disorders and for nerve regeneration following brain or spinal cord injury. Currently, patients are being treated using stem cells for bone fractures, cancer (bone marrow transplants) and spinal fusion surgery. New stem cell therapies are continually under review, or have already been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Many other therapies are in various stages of product development. As the number of people affected by degenerative diseases continues to increase, there will be a greater need for new treatment options for the ever-growing aging population. Harvesting and storing stem cells now will ensure their availability in the future when they will be needed most.
