The National Institute of Health spends billions each year on stem cell research. While that may sound like a lot, you’d be surprised at what that money can accomplish.
Researchers are working to cure major diseases like cancer, diabetes, Parkinson’s, and more.
Keep reading to learn about five stem cell uses that could change the way we think about medicine.
1. Wound Healing
Severe wounds such as penetrative injuries or open gashes can leave the body vulnerable and exposed. Harmful bacteria can find their way into your system, turning an already painful injury into a full-blown infection, amplifying the dangers.
Though the research is still relatively new, studies indicate that stem cell therapy using mesenchymal stromal cells can help heal wounds faster, allowing the body to fight off infection and even strengthening the new tissue.
2. Diabetes
Though there’s not a ‘cure’ for diabetes, per se, the regenerative healing properties of stem cells listed above can also help diabetes patients.
Similar to the problems listed above, patients with diabetes may have trouble healing on their own due to blood circulation issues. Again, this can leave an already vulnerable patient in a dangerous spot.
Thankfully, as Stem Cell Institute Hawaii points out, clinical studies are underway to determine how significant the advantages of stem cells’ regenerative properties could be, potentially changing the way doctors treat diabetic patients.
3. Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s is a major degenerative neurological disorder that ultimately leads to the loss of motor functions.
It’s a frightening disease that takes years to eat away at its victims. Thankfully, researchers are finding promising results involving stem cell healing.
In one such study from the Harvard Stem Cell Institute, researchers successfully created brain cells using skin flakes from a patient with Parkinson’s.
Make no mistake, this is huge news. It means that stem cells may be the secret to reversing the chaos Parkinson’s causes thousands of families each year and one day allowing for the restoration of speech and movement.
4. Cancer
Cancer occurs when a patient’s cells begin fighting one another. In time, white blood cells are eliminated almost entirely, leading to many of the heart-wrenching symptoms we associate with cancer.
What’s more, cancer treatments like chemotherapy can leave the body weak. Chemotherapy patients often feel fatigued and nauseous and may bleed more easily.
Stem cell transplants can offset some of these negative side effects, allowing patients to undergo regular chemotherapy without dealing with the inconveniences.
5. Arthritis
As you’ve probably noticed by now, stem cells come with some pretty fascinating regenerative qualities. These qualities can even help restore old, damaged tissue, turning back the hands of time.
Those with arthritis may undergo stem cell therapy to ease pain and strengthen existing cartilage. Other studies note that stem cell exposure can reduce inflammation, as well.
These Exciting Stem Cell Uses Are Just the Beginning
These are just five examples of stem cell uses in the modern medical world. As time goes on, you can expect research to continue and stem cell therapies to advance.
To stay up to date on the latest research, make sure to check back with our health blog!
