Stem Cells
Stem cells are the fundamental components of the organism, possessing the capacity to self-renew and differentiate into various cell types. They can be found in embryonic, foetal, and adult stages.
Thanks to their self-renewal, differentiation, and proliferation properties, they play a critical role in tissue regeneration and repair.
Features
Self-renewal:
They can maintain their stem cell properties by dividing for long periods.
Potency (differentiation capacity):
They can exhibit totipotent, pluripotent, multipotent, or unipotent properties.
Tissue repair:
They play a role in the regeneration of damaged tissues.
Classification
Embryonic stem cells (ESCs):
They possess pluripotent properties and can differentiate into all cell types.
Adult stem cells (e.g. MSC):
They are multipotent and can differentiate into specific tissue types.
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC):
They are obtained by genetically reprogramming somatic cells.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are adult stem cells derived from connective tissue with multipotent properties. They can differentiate into cells such as bone, cartilage, fat, muscle, and connective tissue.
They also possess immunomodulatory properties, regulating the immune system, suppressing inflammation, and supporting regenerative processes.
They are one of the most commonly used types of stem cells in clinical applications.
Their main features are:
- Migration: Migration to damaged tissue
- Fusion: Merging with damaged cells
- Differentiation: Differentiation into the cell they merge with
- Immunosuppression: Reduction of immune system activation
- Immunomodulation: Regulation of the immune system
Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
(for Autologous use)
Bone marrow is the source where mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were first discovered and have been the subject of clinical research for the longest period of time. Bone marrow tissue obtained by aspiration from the iliac crest or sternum contains a microenvironment rich in MSCs. However, the number of cells is lower compared to adipose tissue, and obtaining it is more invasive.
Bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) are notable for their high differentiation capacity.
They can differentiate into a wide variety of mesenchymal lineages, particularly bone and cartilage tissue. They also play a critical role in angiogenesis, immunomodulation, and tissue regeneration through their paracrine effects.
Quality Control Parameters (Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells)
- Serology Analysis
- Mycoplasma Analysis
- Culture Analysis
- Endotoxin Analysis
- Cell Count and Viability Analysis
- Telomerase Activity Assay Analysis
- Surface Marker Analysis
- Gene Expression Analysis
- Gram Stain Analysis