Frequently Asked Questions About Stem Cells

Que 1. What does stem cell therapy do?

Ans: Stem cell therapy utilizes specialized cells that can transform into different cell types, aiding in healing or replacing damaged tissue. Its aim is to activate the body's natural regeneration, fostering new tissue growth and restoring bodily functions. It holds potential in treating spinal cord injuries, specific cancers, heart disease, and chronic conditions like Parkinson's disease and neurodegenerative disorders.

Que 2. What disease can be cured by stem cells?

Ans: Stem cell therapy shows promise for various medical conditions, though not all illnesses can be treated with it. Potential beneficiaries include:

Blood disorders such as leukemia and anemia.
Immune system disorders such as lupus and multiple sclerosis.
Neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.
Orthopedic injuries and conditions such as osteoarthritis and spinal cord injuries.
Certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma and myeloma.
It's important to note that stem cell therapy is still a relatively new field, and more research is needed to fully understand its potential and limitations in treating various diseases.

Que 3. What are the 4 types of stem cell therapy?

Ans: The four types of stem cell therapy are: Autologous cell therapy
Allogeneic cell therapy
Syngeneic cell therapy
iPSC therapy

Que 4. How successful is stem cell therapy?

Ans: Stem cell therapy's success varies based on disease, patient health, and age. It's notably effective for blood disorders and certain cancers.

Que 5. Is stem cell treatment available in India?

Ans: The vast expanse of medical services in India encompasses the administration of cutting-edge stem cell treatment. This therapeutic modality spans an extensive array of medical conditions, including but not limited to neurological disorders that affect the brain and nervous system, various blood disorders characterized by hematological abnormalities, and injuries sustained in the realm of orthopedics.

Que 6. What are 3 disadvantages of stem cells?

Ans: 1. Stem cell therapy poses risks like infection, bleeding, and transplantation complications. Tumor or abnormal tissue formation is also possible.

2. Ethical concerns arise due to the use of specific stem cells, like embryonic ones, involving embryo destruction and human fetal tissue usage.

3. Stem cell therapy's cost and lack of insurance coverage can restrict access, limiting its availability to specific individuals or groups.

Que 7. Are stem cells permanent?

Ans: Stem cells are impermanent, capable of becoming specialized cells and eventually dying.

Que 8. Is stem cell therapy expensive?

Ans: Stem cell therapy's expense varies based on factors like stem cell type, administration method, condition treated, and treatment location. Insurance might cover costs in some cases, but patients could also pay out of pocket. Discussing costs with a healthcare provider before treatment is advised.

Que 9. What is stem cell therapy cost in India?

Ans: In India, stem cell therapy cost varies due to factors like stem cell type, condition treated, facility location, and administration method, ranging from thousands to lakhs of rupees.

Que 10. How long does stem cell injection last?

Ans: Stem cell injection effects' duration varies due to stem cell type, condition treated, administration, and patient factors. Effects can be brief, lasting weeks or months in some cases.

Que 11. Is there an age limit for stem cell?

Ans: Safety and effectiveness of stem cell therapy are under research across ages due to its newness. No age restrictions are currently set for its use.

Que 12. What is the success rate of stem cell treatment?

Ans: Stem cell therapy's success varies with condition and patient. Notable improvements have occurred, but research is ongoing for safety and effectiveness across medical conditions.

Que 13. Are stem cells safe long term?

Ans: As stem cell research and therapy are early stage, long-term safety is under investigation. While it holds promise for various conditions, potential risks exist for prolonged use. Consulting a healthcare provider is advised to assess safety and suitability.

Que 14. Will stem cell therapy cure spinal cord injury?

Ans: Stem cell therapy shows promise in spinal cord injury treatment. While not a cure, early research suggests it aids tissue repair, nerve regrowth, and function improvement. Long-term safety and efficacy require further investigation.

Que 15. Does stem cell therapy work on arthritic knees?

Ans: Stem cell therapy holds promise for arthritic knees. Initial research indicates it can alleviate pain, inflammation, aid tissue repair, and enhance function in knee osteoarthritis patients.

Que 16. What is the success rate of stem cell therapy for knees?

Ans: Knee stem cell therapy's success depends on arthritis severity, stem cell type, administration, and personal factors. Studies report success rates ranging from 60-70% or higher, with variation.

Que 17. Is stem cell therapy effective for DMD?

Ans: Stem cell therapy offers promise for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). While not a cure, it can potentially slow progression and enhance muscle function in some patients.

Que 18. What is the application of stem cells in muscular dystrophy?

Ans: Stem cell therapy holds promise for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), potentially slowing progression and enhancing muscle function in some patients despite the absence of a cure.

Que 19. Can ALS be treated with stem cell therapy?

Ans: Stem cell therapy shows promise for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), but further research is required to confirm safety and effectiveness. Though some trials have shown positive outcomes, widespread availability and regulatory approval for ALS treatment are pending.

Que 20. How much does stem cell therapy cost for ALS in India?

Ans: Stem cell therapy offers promise for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), but safety and effectiveness need more research. Clinical trials show potential, but widespread availability and regulatory approval for ALS treatment are pending.

Que 21. Can stem cells cure neurons?

Ans: Stem cells can become neurons, but their potential to cure neurological conditions like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's is uncertain. Promising studies exist, but safety and effectiveness require more research to be understood for stem cell therapy in neurological conditions.

Que 22. Can stem cells repair nerve damage?

Ans: Stem cells, like neural or mesenchymal ones, can repair nerve damage and aid regeneration. Research supports their potential, but safety and efficacy need further exploration, along with effective protocols for nerve repair using stem cells.

Que 23. Can stem cells repair muscle damage?

Ans: Stem cells, like neural or mesenchymal types, repair nerve damage by becoming nerve cells and aiding regeneration. Research supports potential, but safety, effectiveness, and protocols for nerve repair using stem cells require further investigation.

Que 24. What role do stem cells play in muscular dystrophy?

Ans: Within the context of muscular dystrophy, stem cells possess the capacity to rejuvenate impaired muscle tissue through the process of transforming into muscle cells and substituting the damaged ones. Additionally, they emit growth factors that stimulate the growth and restoration of muscle tissue.

Que 25. Can stem cells cure cerebral palsy?

Ans: Cerebral palsy stem cell therapy is experimental and shows symptom improvement, but isn't a cure. Further research is required to establish safety and effectiveness.

Que 26. How is stem cell therapy used for cerebral palsy?

Ans: Stem cell therapy for cerebral palsy encompasses the introduction of mesenchymal stem cells either into the bloodstream or directly into the brain. These stem cells have the ability to mend tissue and stimulate the process of neuroregeneration.

Que 27. What is the success rate of stem cell therapy for cerebral palsy?

Ans: The effectiveness of stem cell therapy for cerebral palsy exhibits variability and hinges on factors like the extent of the condition, the patient's age, and the specific stem cell therapy employed. Certain investigations have unveiled noteworthy enhancements, whereas others have indicated only marginal progress.

Que 28. How much does stem cell therapy cost for cerebral palsy?

Ans: Stem cell therapy cost for cerebral palsy in India varies based on therapy type and sessions needed, averaging Rs. 2 to 6 lakhs. Consult a medical professional for accurate estimates.

Que 29. Can stem cells reverse lungs fibrosis?

Ans: Stem cells can potentially reverse lung fibrosis by replacing damaged cells and promoting regeneration. However, more research is required to establish safety and effectiveness.

Que 30. Can lungs regenerate after fibrosis?

Ans: Although full lung tissue regeneration post-fibrosis isn't feasible, stem cell therapy can decrease inflammation, scarring, and aid healthy tissue repair in the lungs, as indicated by studies.

Que 31. How much does stem cell transplant cost in Mumbai?

Ans: Stem cell transplantation cost in Mumbai varies based on transplant type and facility, averaging 10 to 20 lakhs or higher. Consult a medical professional for precise details.

Que 32. What is autologous bone marrow-derived stem cells?

Ans: Autologous bone marrow-derived stem cells are procured from an individual's own bone marrow and subsequently reinfused for therapeutic purposes. Termed as autologous stem cell therapy, this form of treatment finds extensive application in addressing diverse diseases and medical conditions.

Que 33. What is autologous vs allogeneic cells?

Ans: Autologous bone marrow-derived stem cells are procured from an individual's own bone marrow, subsequently manipulated outside the body, and then reintroduced to achieve therapeutic effects. This treatment modality is recognized as autologous stem cell therapy, widely adopted for the management of diverse diseases and medical conditions.

Que 34. What are the benefits of umbilical cord stem cells?

Ans: Umbilical cord stem cells offer advantages like availability, low rejection risk, and reduced infection or genetic concerns, distinguishing them from other stem cell types. Their versatility for treating various conditions and contribution to medical research makes them valuable.

Que 35. What type of cell is found in umbilical cord blood?

Ans: Umbilical cord blood's hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) become blood cells, including white and red cells, and platelets. It also houses other stem types: mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), capable of differentiating into various tissues and organs.

Que 36. What are the steps of cell therapy?

Ans: Cell therapy involves collecting cells from patient/donor, culturing and expanding them, preparing the patient, transplanting cells, and monitoring for therapy's effectiveness.

Que 37. What is the basic process of stem cell therapy?

Ans: Stem cell therapy injects stem cells for tissue repair. Cells are often taken from bone marrow or adipose tissue, purified, and then injected/infused back into the patient. Stem cells travel to the injury site, differentiate into required cells, and facilitate tissue repair.

Que 38. What are the disorders that can be treated with Cell Therapy?

Ans: Cell therapy is researched for diverse medical conditions: Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, cardiovascular problems (heart failure, myocardial infarction), musculoskeletal disorders (osteoarthritis, muscular dystrophy), immune issues (type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis), and cancer.

Que 39. After receiving therapy for cerebral palsy, can my child expect to have a life expectancy that is typical or within the normal range?

Ans: Cell therapy for cerebral palsy can enhance symptoms and quality of life but doesn't cure the condition. Life expectancy isn't usually reduced, though it can be impacted by associated conditions' severity. Discuss individual concerns with a healthcare provider.

Que 40. What is the timeframe within which I can expect to see improvements in my child resulting from the cerebral palsy treatment?

Ans: Cerebral palsy treatment's improvement timeline varies per case and therapy. Some notice changes in weeks, while others take months. Realistic expectations, ongoing care, and healthcare professional communication are crucial.

Que 41. How do paraplegia and quadriplegia differ from one another?

Ans: Paraplegia and quadriplegia are distinct paralyses. Paraplegia affects lower body (waist down), while quadriplegia affects all limbs and torso, potentially leading to breathing problems and requiring intensive care.

Que 42. Is it possible for individuals with SCI to experience improvement through stem cell therapy?

Ans: Stem cell therapy shows potential for spinal cord injury (SCI) patients. It can replace/repair cells, stimulate nerve growth, and decrease inflammation, benefiting individuals with SCI.

Que 43. How does cell therapy contribute to the treatment of spinal cord injury?

Ans: Cell therapy can spark spinal cord regeneration, curb inflammation, and boost neuroprotection. Stem cells morph into different cell types, like neurons and glial cells, replacing damaged spinal cord cells.

Que 44. Is it possible for me or my daughter to be a carrier of Duchenne muscular dystrophy if my son has been diagnosed with the condition?

Ans: Duchenne muscular dystrophy, an X-linked genetic disorder, mainly impacts males, yet women can carry the mutated gene. If your son has it, you or your daughter might be carriers. Genetic testing can confirm carrier status for you or your child.

Que 45. What are some signs and symptoms of muscular dystrophy that can manifest in adulthood?

Ans: In the realm of adult-onset muscular dystrophy, a tapestry of symptoms emerges. These encompass progressive muscle weakening, walking impediments, breathing challenges, cardiac function disturbances, and cognitive alterations. Notably, the symptom profile evolves in accordance with the specific type of muscular dystrophy in question.

Que 46. Can you explain how cell therapy is used to treat muscular dystrophy in India?

Ans: Muscular dystrophy cell therapy introduces healthy stem cells. Often, bone marrow-derived cells are used, taken from the patient, processed, purified, and reinfused. The goal is to replace damaged cells, slowing disease progression.

Que 47. How much improvement can patients with muscular dystrophy expect from cell therapy?

Ans: Cell therapy's effect on muscular dystrophy patients differs in each case. Significant or minor improvements are possible. Consulting a healthcare professional is vital to grasp potential benefits and limitations of the therapy.

Que 48. Does stem cell treatment cause pain or discomfort for the patient?

Ans: The majority of stem cell treatments are generally painless and involve only minimal discomfort. Typically, the procedure involves a straightforward injection, which might lead to temporary soreness or swelling at the injection site.

Que 49. In the context of cell therapy, is the transplantation of cells a one-time procedure or does it need to be repeated multiple times?

Ans: The quantity of cell therapy treatments differs for each patient and condition. Sometimes, one transplant suffices, while other cases require multiple treatments for sustained or enhanced benefits. Consult the medical team for guidance.

Que 50. What is the expected timeframe for experiencing benefits from stem cell treatment?

Ans: The timing of outcomes from stem cell therapy is contingent upon the individual and the condition being addressed. Swift improvement or a delay of weeks to months is feasible. Often, the treatment necessitates a series of sessions or subsequent appointments. For precise information on the timeframe, it's advisable to consult the attending physician.