India Pharma Outlook Team | Monday, 26 February 2024
Americord, a leading private stem cell bank, has announced the release of cord blood stem cells to a client's grandmother in India to treat motor neuron disease. This progressive neurological disorder poses immense challenges for patients and families. Researchers have studied cord blood stem cells' therapeutic potential for treating this disease for several years, and positive outcomes from clinical trials show promise for an FDA-approved treatment option shortly.
Americord worked closely with healthcare professionals in India to enable the transfer of preserved cord blood stem cells, which are highly regulated, with strict protocols in place to facilitate the transfer of cells adequately. In recent years, India has rapidly increased its funding towards biotechnology and high-quality healthcare, improving the availability and quality of stem cell treatments throughout the country and leading to collaboration with stem cell banks globally to obtain successful transfers.
The utilization of the preserved stem cells is a significant highlight of this treatment, as cord blood stem cells can be stored for potential future use for the child and any matching first or second-degree relative. This treatment holds significance because the Americord client utilized the stored cord blood stem cells for their grandmother, showcasing the unique ability of cord blood stem cells to potentially be used by other family members.
The treating physician required only a small sample for the intervention, enabling the family to retain the bulk of preserved stem cells for potential future treatments. Americord stores stem cells in 5-chamber storage cases, with five equal parts, which maximizes treatment opportunities and exemplifies Americord's commitment to empowering families through cutting-edge regenerative therapies.
“We are immensely proud to play a role in facilitating treatments for our clients,” said Martin Smithmyer, co-CEO and founder of Americord. "This milestone underscores the transformative potential of cord blood stem cells and reaffirms our dedication to advancing innovative healthcare solutions globally."
Cord blood banking is a forward-thinking decision that can drastically change a family’s future. The decision to preserve stem cells enabled this Americord client to provide a potentially life-saving treatment to a loved one, highlighting the importance of educating yourself on the benefits and use of newborn stem cells.