Umbilical cord stem cells: benefits and applications

The usefulness of stem cells from the blood umbilical cord are more than a reality. These have been applied for a long time more than 30 years in autologous treatments -donor and recipient are the same person- and allogeneic treatments -donor and recipient are different people-.

Matthew Farrow, first successful case of Fanconi anemia treatment

El first patient to receive a transplant was Matthew FarrowIn 1988, Matt was 5 years old and suffered from Fanconi Anemia, a serious blood disorder. Matt received cells from his newborn sister, who had previously been tested for the same condition. The transplant was performed by the prestigious doctor Eliane GluckmanTo date, the company has performed nearly 2000 bone marrow and umbilical cord blood transplants.

Matt required an urgent hematopoietic transplant. A procedure developed specifically for the treatment of patients with Fanconi anemia was performed. The transplant was successful, with no graft-versus-host disease, and the patient is currently disease-free with complete hematologic and immunological reconstitution of the donor. He states this in this interview.

Other applications of umbilical cord stem cells

Other Current applications of cord blood cells are performed to treat oncological diseases, bone marrow failure, immunodeficiencies, autoimmune diseases or hemoglobinopathies. And clinical trials in various phases are continually being published to treat diseases such as diabetes, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and stroke, among many others.

Umbilical cord blood transplantation for autism spectrum disorder and cerebral palsy

Un clinical trial that is already in phase two and we want to highlight the one developed by Duke University. Led by Joanne Kurtzberg, a pioneer in demonstrating the therapeutic potential of umbilical cord blood.

This essay has received permission from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to offer the umbilical cord blood transplantation in conditions such as autism spectrum disorder and cerebral palsy.

In the United States alone, the prevalence of cerebral palsy It is 1 in 323 children. Similarly, the rate of autism spectrum disorder is 1 in 68 children. Worldwide, it is anticipated that thousands of children could benefit from this new treatment option.

Stem cells for the treatment of rare diseases

Also Cord blood cells are used in various rare diseases, such as butterfly skin, as it allows damaged skin to regenerate. Another clear example is a recent case in Spain of a bubble boy (severe combined immunodeficiency). He was treated thanks to early detection using the heel prick test at just 11 days old and a cord blood cell transplant.

You can consult other clinical trials with cord blood cells this link.


Without a doubt, learning about the usefulness of these stem cells and collecting them is a unique opportunity presented by the birth of a baby. Furthermore, collecting them is a simple and painless process. Women's Unit We can provide you with more information about it.


If you were interested in this article and would like to be seen by our professionals, the Women's Unit at Ruber International Hospital has a specialized unit in this area. You can request more information by calling the following numbers: 91 387 51 72/73/74 or make an appointment for an in-person consultation, always with the best specialists.

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