Stem cells are cells with the ability to differentiate themselves through mitotic cell division into a wide number of diverse cell types. Because they renew through cell division, stem cells are able to differentiate into a vast array of mature cell types without depleting themselves. In simple terms, it is possible to think of stems cells as “mother cells” giving birth to a variety of cells types.
Hematopoietic stem cells found in cord blood can be used in transplantation in place of more invasive bone marrow transplants. Increasingly, though, scientists are using cord blood to harvest stem cells for a wider range of diseases. The National Cord Blood Program at the New York Blood Center has compiled a list of over 70 diseases where stem cells from cord blood have been used in treatment. Additionally, LifebankUSA keeps a list of current uses for stem cells and future potential treatments.
Ron Reagan, political activist and son of the former president, is quoted as saying: “the use of embryonic stem cells may be the greatest medical breakthrough in our or in any lifetime.”