The 4 Different Types of Stem Cells and Their Unique Roles
Stem cells are well-known for their incredible healing potential. Despite the debate surrounding stem cell use, many patients who understand their origins and true nature seek treatments that use them for their healing capabilities.
However, stem cells are not all uniform in their function and origin. For instance, did you know that there are various types of stem cells? We’ll explore the four stem cell categories and their benefits to integrative medicine for our local patients.
Where Do the Four Types of Stem Cells Come From?
In general, there are four different types of stem cells used in research and treatment:
- Embryonic stem cells
- Tissue-specific stem cells
- Mesenchymal stem cells
- Induced pluripotent stem cells
Embryonic stem cells are obtained from embryos in the development stage, shortly after fertilization. They’re typically donated and grown in vitro and can come from animals and humans. Embryonic stem cells have shown incredible potential in treating various medical conditions and repairing or replacing damaged tissues. It is however, illegal to use embryonic stem cells in human patients, and it is also dangerous. Embryonic stem cells are never used in the USA to treat patients.
Tissue-specific stem cells, usually referred to as adult stem cells, are found in tissues and organs. Adult stem cells can self-replicate and differentiate into practically any tissue or organ, potentially reducing inflammation, repairing tissue damage, and promoting the body’s natural healing. These types of stem cells are usually awakened and activated by circulating stem cells that come from bone marrow. They can also be activated by tissue banked stem cells that are injected as part of a treatment.
Mesenchymal stem cells are derived from tissue surrounding specific organs in the body. Although technically not stem cells, they have exhibited stem cell-like properties in research. They also show promise in regenerative and advanced healing treatments for patients in Cincinnati and New York City. These are typically harvested from C-section baby birth parts (placenta and umbilical cord) and stored in a tissue bank. Mesenchymal stem cells can also be harvested from fat and bone marrow.
Induced pluripotent stem cells are not naturally found in the human body but are instead created using adult stem cells in a lab. While they exhibit many of the same properties as other types of stem cells, scientists are still researching their best use. They may have a place in regenerative medicine, helping to overcome some patients’ hesitancies about using embryonic stem cells.
At the Blatman Health and Wellnes Center we also have a new technology where we can use VSELs (very small embryonic like stem cells) that are harvested from your circulating plasma from a simple blood draw. These cells have been dormant in your body since your birth, and the day before they were your embryonic stem cells. Since they are not embryonic, they are called “embryonic-like) because they are pleuripotent and can grow or help heal most any tissue in the body. In addition to repairing cartilage and tendons, these calls can also be laser guided in the body to help repair the brain from Parkinson’s, dementia, and stroke, and the heart from heart failure.
Stem Cell Used in Research & Therapy
Stem cells are an incredible type of cell found in all life on the planet. As mentioned, stem cells are found throughout the body in various locations, including organs, bone marrow, skin, and muscle.
What makes stem cells unique is their ability to transform into any cell in the body. They can replicate into any new cell and renew infinitely, which gives them miraculous healing capabilities. For example, when your body gets injured or cut, it uses its own supply of platelets and stem cells to heal the injured area. If it weren’t for stem cells, you couldn’t mend a cut or broken bone.
Stem Cells and Aging
As you age, the number of stem cells in your body gradually diminishes. Because of this, older adults have a harder time recovering from an injury or cut than younger folks. Fortunately, stem cell injections may hold the answer to this problem.
In stem cell treatment, a doctor injects stem cells into your injury. The injected stem cells can likely help support an injured joint, tendon, muscle, organ, and more.
Learn More about the Wonders of Stem Cell Therapies
Are you looking for a way to heal your injury without surgery? If you’re curious about stem cell technology in your area, contact the Blatman Health and Wellness Center for more information. If you think you might benefit from this relatively new field, our integrative medical providers can review your situation, answer your questions, and recommend appropriate treatments.
