How stem cells are taking us a step closer to curing previously incurable illnesses

02/02/2016

You may have seen in the news very recently that a lady in Scotland has been treated for her multiple sclerosis using a stem cell treatment called hematopoietic stem cell treatment (HSCT). HSCT transmits stem cells that are able to reproduce different cells found in the blood and helps regenerate the tissue surrounding these cells. Being able to target and treat particularly aggressive forms of multiple sclerosis had previously not been seen as achievable, but thanks to remarkable developments in the world of stem cell technology, medicinal miracles are seemingly becoming more and more possible with each passing day.

By using stem cells to stop the immune system from weakening and thus lowering its natural protection of the central nervous system, it is possible to allow the body to regulate itself more effectively and reduce some of the horribly debilitating effects that diseases as multiple sclerosis have on those who suffer from them.

Of course, we are still at a relative infancy regarding these incredible recent developments, and it is only a matter of time before we see an increase in the number of success stories as these regenerative medical techniques become more understood and can be utilised even more. Stem cells can come from different parts of the body such as bone marrow, which was used for the HSCT procedure described earlier. Stem cells can also be derived from the nerve endings in the teeth, which are a different type of stem cell that can regenerate different properties.

Market leaders such as BioEden are working on a number of solutions to help treat some equally horrible diseases and illnesses such as diabetes. Diabetes affects a significant percentage of the world’s population. In the US, just under 10% of people are believed to be affected.