Once again, I receive so many emails regarding stem cells, and where they come from. This is the biggest topic of questions I receive each week. The first thing I’d like to say is that in my office, Accurate Care Medical Wellness Center, only ethical and legal sources of stem cells are used. We also use cells and protocols that are the most effective for each condition a patient may have. I personally go to three stem cell conferences a year to stay current with all of the products and protocols that are available.
It seems that people have been told about what used to be done back when stem cell therapy started. Very little information is available to the public that explains the recent technology and sources of stem cells and their ability to restore function to otherwise dysfunctional systems of the body to promote healing. I will do my best to shed light on this subject, while clarifying what they are and what they are not.
Let’s start with what stem cells we do not use in my office. Embryonic stem cells are derived from embryos that are typically created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures for reproductive purposes. These unused embryos are typically donated for research purposes with the informed consent of the donors. In some cases, aborted embryos may be used. In 2001, then-President George W. Bush announced a policy limiting federal funding for research involving embryonic stem cells. This policy allowed federal funding only for research on embryonic stem cell lines that had already been established before August 9, 2001. In 2009, President Barack Obama issued an executive order that lifted the restrictions on federal funding for embryonic stem cell research. This allowed for the funding of research on new embryonic stem cell lines. We do not use embryonic stem cells for treatments in my office, as we do not use products that are illegal, unethical or controversial.
Amniotic stem cells are derived from the amniotic fluid and amniotic membrane surrounding the fetus during pregnancy, generally obtained through procedures like amniocentesis, the umbilical cord (in stem cell therapy for labs), or during a cesarean section childbirth. Unlike embryonic stem cells, which are derived from embryos, amniotic stem cells are obtained without harming the fetus and are ethically uncontroversial. We use MSCs or Mesenchymal Stem Cells, and extra cellular cells or exosomes in my office.
We use stem cells, now known as HCT or Human Cellular Tissue Therapy. This term is now used, as not all products used for treatments today contain stem cells, Some are extracellular products. Extracellular vesicles (EVs)derived from mesenchymal stem cells, (MSCs) play a critical role in the development of immune regulation and regeneration. These mimic the effects of stem cells and perform powerful functions. In my office, each patient, case and condition is unique, therefore different products and protocols are used for each and every patient. As work continues, researchers are actively developing engineered EVs that are even more effective.
Many patients tell me that they’ve previously received the following types of stem cells when they received stem cell therapy that did not work prior to coming to my office.
Two of the popular forms of stem cell therapy they’ve received are adipose (fat) and bone marrow derived cells. These two sources of stem cells can work well for younger patients. The challenge that arises with older patients, especially those over the age of 60, is that these cells come from an older body.
Many of the regenerative properties of the cells have been used up and overworked over the years. This leaves the patient with compromised cells that are not going to regrow the tissue in question to the level and expectations the patient and doctor are willing to see. The two forms of stem cell extraction from the patient are invasive, and can be quite painful, especially those from bone marrow. Using stem cells, and extracellular cells from the donated umbilical cord of live birth of a baby is much less invasive for the donor (baby) and the recipient (patient).
For any questions regarding regenerative medicine, and whether it may help you, please call my office for a complimentary consultation. I offer special discounts for my readers as well. We frequently offer evening lectures in my office to learn more about regenerative medicine. If you would like to be added to our list for future events, please call my office.
For questions regarding any of my articles, please email me at [email protected]
Leisa-Marie Grgula. DC
Chiropractic Physician
Accurate Care Medical Wellness Center
18261 N. Pima Rd. Ste. #115
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
480-584-3955
