Understanding Cord Blood Banking

What are cord blood stem cells?

A baby's umbilical cord blood, which is normally discarded at birth, is very valuable because it contains high concentrations of haematopoietic stem cells. The stem cells which are found in cord blood and bone marrow are very powerful because they have the ability to generate all of the components of the blood and immune system:

• Red blood cells (erythrocytes) - involved in the transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide
• White blood cells (leucocytes) - an important part of the defence and immune systems of the body
• Platelets (thrombocytes) - vital role in the control of bleeding (haemostasis)

Because of the unique ability of stem cells to regenerate any cell type in the blood and immune system, stem cells are considered "miracle cells" and can be used to treat over 40 diseases, including cancers and genetic disorders. For instance, when transplanted into patients, stem cells are capable of regenerating and replenishing bone marrow and immune systems that have been destroyed by chemotherapy and radiation treatment and thus are invaluable in the treatment of various cancers.