CELL THERAPY

The human body is comprised of millions of stem cells. We can use those stem cells to repair individual organs. Also, there are too many toxic substances around world that can harm your body system. For example, contamination in the water, pollutants in the air, toxic in the food, and things around the environment we are living with. Stress is also another factor that destroys our firmness in physical functions. These factors, when being exposed to for a long consecutive time can decelerate our body to repaired itself. Thus, aging, and other diseases such as heart disease, blood pressure, diabetes, golden ages, and any degenerative syndrome can harm your body and eventually reduce longevity of your life. Using stem cells therapy to heal these problems means we provide the necessary source of biomaterials into our body so that it can restart repairing itself, slow down the aging process, and enhance rejuvenation.

Table of Contents

Stem cells are Biomaterials that have reproductive capability in itself, leading to growing cells naturally.

Stem cells are original cells acting as base cells that are not yet assigned to any function.

 

So, they can regenerate and differentiate themselves into other types of cells when the environment allows. These output cells can be tissue cells, organs, and bones. They can also help regulate the immune system, can secrete specific protein and growth factor to help enhance healing for variety organ and be used as new cells to replace the dead ones caused by injuries, or diseases. Stem cells can be extracted from several sources including bone marrow, peripheral blood, cord blood, placenta, adipose tissue, baby teeth, and impacted teeth.

Basic Type of Base Stem Cells

Stem cells are classified into 2 types based on their regenerative capabilities.

 

  • Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) are cells developed in the embryonic stage. These types of cells include Embryonic Stem Cells which are those cell whose roles are not specifically defined for any functional organs (i.e. liver, lung, heart, blood cells, muscles, or brain matters). These cells are extracted during the first embryonic stage (14 days after fertilization). However, this type of Stem cell is not used in medical society at all 
  • Multipotent Stem Cells are those cells whose roles are defined for specific functions and developed into organ’s cells of human bodies. The regenerative capabilities of this type of cells are not yet the same as iPSCs. Sometimes, these Multipotent Stem Cells are called Adult/Somatic Stem Cells which can be found throughout most of human body cells. They are vary, however, in terms of types, volumes and regenerative capabilities as well as potential to develop into organ’s cells. The sources of these Multipotent Stem Cells are Cord Blood, Placenta and Umbilical Cord, Peripheral Blood, Adipose Tissue, and Dental Pulp. The examples of these stem cells are Fetal Stem Cell, Hematopoietic Stem Cell, and Mesenchymal Stem Cells. 

Stem Cells Therapy By sourcing

Applications of stem cells in modern medical treatments vary. But they are grouped as followed: 

 

  • Autologous Cell Therapy. This treatment uses the original cells from the patient’s body because there are fewer possibilities for immune rejection. The source of these cells are blood cells and adipose tissue. 
  • Allogeneic Cell Therapy. This treatment uses cells from others, most of which are donors, and applies them with the recipient, whose body accepts the foreign stem cells from others. With this treatment, the regeneration of the cells supposed to be smooth and have no rejection. The sources of these cell is Umbilical cord tissue, Amniotic fluid cell, Placenta tissue.  
  • Xenogeneic Cell Therapy. This treatment uses animal embryonic cells or plant stem cells to be implanted into the recipient. The concept is that similar types of cells with the same functions should be able to stimulate and heal the degenerated ones. For example, to treat liver disease, the embryonic cells from sheep livers are extracted and used with the treatment.  The mechanism of the treatment is based on the protein molecule inside those cells that stimulate the regeneration process at the target point of affected area. This treatment brings the embryonic cells from animals raised well in hygienic environment. The quality stem cells are then clinically processed and tested before use.  

Three Special Features of Stem Cells

  • Stem cells can regenerate themselves within a long period of timeframe. 
  • Stem cells perform general functions. No specific assigned roles of the base cells. 
  • Stem cells can adapt themselves to be any type of cells such as organ cells of human body. 

Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSC) characteristic

 3Rs plus 1 benefit

  • Repair: MSCs initiate the tissue repairing processes by releasing growth factors (specifically VEGF, bFGE, EGF, and TGF-beta) that promote proliferation and survival of UVB-induced apoptotic dermal fibroblasts 

 

  • Regenerative: MSCs are self-renewal multipotent stem cells that are risen to a variety of tissues 
  • Rejuvenate: MSCs promote collagen synthesis and accelerate new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) which increase blood and nutrient supply to the skin 
  • Plus point: Beside the regenerative function another beneficial property of MSCs is an immune-privileged characteristic. MSCs are hypo-immunogenic cell and reported to suppress T-cell proliferation and modulate B cell function. Therefore, MSCs are applicable for allogeneic use in cell-based therapy. 

Types of Adult Stem Cells

Stem cells reside in adult bone marrow and fat, as well as other tissues and organs of the body. These cells have a natural ability to repair damaged tissues, however in people with degenerative diseases they are not released quickly enough to fully repair damaged tissue. In the case of fat stem cell, they may not be released at all. The process of actively extracting, concentrating and administering these stem cells has been shown in clinical trials to have beneficial effects in degenerative conditions. 

Mesenchymal stem cells in our lab

Adult stem cells can be extracted from many areas of the body, including the bone marrow, fat, and peripheral blood. Once the cells have been harvested, they are sent to the lab where they are purified and assessed for quality before being reintroduced back in the patient. Since the stem cells come from the patient there is no possibility for rejection. Stem Cell of our lab advocates the use of autologous (your own) stem cells and also allogeneic stem cell from umbilical cord tissue. Stem cells isolated from the bone marrow or fat have the ability to become different cell types (i.e. nerve cells, liver cells, heart cells, and cartilage cells). Studies have also shown that these are capable of homing to and repairing damaged tissue. Animal studies have shown that these stem cells also secrete proteins and peptides that stimulate healing of damaged tissue, including heart muscle and spinal cord. 

1). Fat derived stem cells

Fat stem cells are essentially sequestered and are not available to the rest of the body for repair or immune modulation. Fat derived stem cells have been used for successful treatment of companion animals and horses with bone and joint injuries for the last 5 years with positive results. 

 

Experimental studies suggest fat derived stem cells not only can develop into new tissues but also suppress pathological immune responses as seen in autoimmune diseases. In addition to orthopedic conditions, we have experience treating patients with Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis, and other autoimmune diseases using fat derived stem cells. 

  

 Articles Authored about Fat Derived Stem Cells: 

  • Non-expanded Adipose Stromal Vascular Fraction Cell Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis
  • Autologous Stromal Vascular Fraction Cells: A Tool for Facilitating Tolerance in Rheumatic Disease
  • Autologous stromal vascular fraction therapy for rheumatoid arthritis: rationale and clinical safety

2). Bone marrow stem cells

The bone marrow stem cell is the most studied of the stem cells, since it was first discovered in the 1960s. Originally used in bone marrow transplant for leukemias and hematopoietic diseases, numerous studies have now expanded experimental use of these cells for conditions such as orthopedic problems, spinal cord injury, diabetes, heart failure, and other degenerative disorders. 

3). Human umbilical cord tissue (HUCT) stem cells

Umbilical cord stem cells reside in the umbilical cords of newborn babies. HUCT stem cells, like all post-natal cells, are “adult” stem cells. 

 

We utilize cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells that are separated from the umbilical cord tissue. For certain indications, these cells are expanded into greater numbers at our laboratory under very strict, internationally recognized guidelines. 

 

Among many other things, mesenchymal stem cells from the umbilical cord tissue are known to help reduce inflammation, modulate the immune system and secrete factors that help the central nervous system to regenerate. 

 

Because HUCT stem cells are less mature than other cells, the body’s immune system is unable to recognize them as foreign and therefore they are not rejected. We’ve treated hundreds of patients with umbilical cord stem cells and there has never been a single instance rejection (graft vs. host disease). HUCT stem cells also proliferate/differentiate more efficiently than “older” cells, such as those found in the bone marrow, adipose tissue and therefore, they are considered to be more “potent”. 

 

*All donated cords are the by-products of normal, healthy births. Each cord is carefully screened for sterility and infectious diseases under International Blood Bank standards. 

Stem Cell Collection

Adipose tissue collection 

 

Each patient’s fat tissue is collected via mini-liposuction. This procedure is performed by an experienced plastic surgeon in a hospital setting under light general anesthesia. The surgeon will determine the most appropriate location to perform the incision for the required fat tissue extraction. The procedure typically takes about an hour. 

One of the most frequently used areas are the commonly referred as “love handles”. After the procedure, patients are observed for one hour in the post-op recovery room and then an additional 1 to 2 hours in another recovery room. Pain medication is prescribed for those who need it. Most patients require very little medication. 

 

Bone marrow collection 

 

Each patient’s own bone marrow is collected by withdrawal into syringes that are inserted through the skin on the back and into the hip bones. This procedure is performed by an experienced orthopedic surgeon under light general anesthesia. Bone marrow collection typically takes about 1.5 hours. Bone marrow collection is quite safe and most patients do not find it to be painful – during or after the procedure 

 

Umbilical cord tissue collection 

 

We receive cord donations from healthy women in Bangkok. Our donors sign a consent form, fill out a detailed questionnaire, and give a blood sample. The mothers’ blood and the cord blood undergo extensive testing for HIV, STD’s, hepatitis, etc. Once we ensure the cords are free of all infectious diseases and 100% safe, we process the tissue to extract the stem cells. 

All donated cords are the by-products of normal, healthy births. Each cord is carefully screened for sterility and infectious diseases under International Blood Bank standards. 

Stem Cell Implantation

At our center, stem cells can be implanted four ways depending on each patient’s ailment and physical condition. Patients typically receive between 1-3 stem cell applications during the course of an entire treatment protocol. 

 

Intrathecal (lumbar puncture) 

 

Intrathecal administration is ideal for neurological conditions because the stem cells are injected directly into the spinal fluid past the blood-brain barrier. This enables them to reach the spinal cord and brain. During the lumbar puncture procedure, an experienced anesthesiologist injects the stem cells into the spinal canal through the lower vertebrae under local anesthesia. All lumbar puncture procedures are performed in a positive airflow room under sterile conditions. Once inside the spinal fluid, the stem cells are able to gain access to the spinal cord and into the brain. Lumbar puncture usually takes about 30-45 minutes. 

 

Intravenous (IV) 

 

The safest and simplest method for delivering the stem cell throughout the body. Anesthesia is not required but light local anesthesia can be administered if necessary. 

IV administration usually takes about 20 – 30 minutes. 

 

Intra-articular (into the joint) 

 

The stem cells are injected directly into the affected joint by a licensed physician. This method is commonly used for arthritis. Intra-articular implantation is quite safe and does not require anesthesia. 

 

Intramuscular 

 

The stem cells are injected directly into the muscle. Intramuscular implantation is very safe and does not require anesthesia. All treatments are performed by Medical Doctors. 

 

Diseases and Illnesses that have positive effect by Stem Cells

At present, these diseases and illnesses are treated with stem cell therapy.  

 

  1. Leukemia
  • Stem Cell Transplantation by using blood stem cells or adipose stem cells. 
  • This method can help doctors to use high-dose chemotherapy and/or radiation with the patient. After treatment, the patient will be transplanted with blood stem cells in order to make the spinal cord work properly. (www.cancer.org) 

 

  1. Thalassemia

 

  1. Aplastic Anemia

 

  1. Primary Immune Deficiency
  • Treating primary immune deficiency (PID) disorders by stem cells transplantation (SCT). This kind of deficiency is mostly from genetic transmission and the symptom is likely to be severe. It is related to circulatory system and immune system. In terms of hematology, Stem Cells Transplantation yields a good result and improves the possibilities to recovery. (www.thaicml.com) 

 

  1. Autoimmune Disease

 

  1. Inborn Error of Metabolism

 

  1. Graft Versus Host Disease
  • Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a complication that can occur after a stem cell or bone marrow transplant. With GVHD, the newly transplanted donor cells attack the transplant recipient’s body. GVHD may occur after a bone marrow or stem cell transplant in which someone receives bone marrow tissue or cells from a donor. This type of transplant is called allogeneic. The new, transplanted cells regard the recipient’s body as foreign. When this happens, the newly transplanted cells attack the recipient’s body.  
  • Modern researches say that Mesenchymal Cells from stem cell therapy gives effective results. (Mol Pharm ,2012) 

 

  1. Alzheimer’s Disease

 

  1. Parkinson’s Disease
  • This is one kind of Neurodegenerative Diseases. 
  • The degeneration process gradually continues inside the patient’s body and the possibility to recover is low. 
  • The use of stem cell therapy in clinical laboratory reflects the efficiency in human treatment, resulting in restoration and repairing the degenerated cells. (CNS Neurosci Ther.2012, 18;2)  

 

  1. Osteoarthritis

 

  1. Spinal Injury

 

  1. Rheumatoid Disease

 

  1. Metabolic Bone Disease
  • Stem cell researchers state that Mesenchymal Cells can help generate bone and cartilage, including animals. After the effective results found, stem cells are used with medical applications on injured patients. It is found that some patients recovered faster than those who receive regular medication. (Curr opin Rheumatol. 2013,25;1)  

 

  1. Cardiovascular Disease

 

  1. Diabetes Mellitus
  • The most severe symptom of this kind is dead tissues due to lack of bloods circulated into each tissue.  
  • This may be because the blood vessel is degenerated or becomes blocked, making the organs unable to stay live. 
  • The treatment aims to the regeneration of new blood vessel and restore the dead areas. It also builds cells that generate insulin for diabetes patients. This kind of stem cell treatment has been in medical use for more than 10 years. (Plast Reconstr Surg. 2012,130;4)  

FAQs

When classifying stem cells based on their source and compatibility with the recipient,

 

  1. Autologous Stem Cells, these stem cells are harvested from the same individual who will receive the stem cell transplant. Since they come from the patient’s own body, there is no risk of immune rejection. Autologous stem cells source that we practical used come from peripheral blood and adipose tissues
  2. Allogeneic Stem Cells, these stem cells are derived from a donor, which can be a related or unrelated individual. Allogeneic stem cells that we use are amniotic mesenchymal Stem cells, umbilical cord mesenchymal Stem cells.

 

Here at Bangkok Regenerative Center’s stem cells come from 2 sources: stem cells from amniotic fluid (Amniotic Fluid Mesenchymal Stem Cell) and stem cells from umbilical cord tissue (Cord Tissue Mesenchymal Stem Cell). These are stem cells capable of self-renewal. These stem cells are carefully selected, cultured, and stored in temperature-regulated liquid nitrogen tanks at a world-class laboratory.

Using stem cells from individuals who you are not genetically related to is possible using Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) from others (Allogeneic). These stem cells can integrate with the recipient’s body without stimulating the immune system or causing tissue rejection, and so can divide and transform into other cell types.

  1. Getting sufficient sleep before injection (8-12 hours)
  2. If you have any underlying medical conditions or regular medication, you should consult your doctor before undergoing treatment.
  3. Avoid getting any vaccines for 1 month before receiving stem cell injections.
  4. Avoid drinking alcohol for 3 days.
  5. If you have symptoms of an infection, like a fever, feeling unwell, or a sore throat, please inform the doctor immediately.

The frequency of stem cell injections required depends on the individual’s condition. Medical exams will indicate how many stem cells or treatments are needed. as each person’s body has different needs and relies on a doctor to determine a treatment plan.

  • You can start receiving stem cell injections for beauty from age 30, as the collagen production beneath the skin declines, leading to increasingly visible skin issues.
  • In terms of stem cell injections for other purposes, it is advisable to consult with a specialized doctor because each person’s body has different health care needs and requirements.

Approximately 1-4 weeks after the stem cell injection, you will start to see changes in your skin. The results will become more noticeable within 1-3 months after the injection. in which the results depend on the quality of the stem cells used and the appropriate number of cells. Generally, stem cell treatments provide results ranging from approximately 3-12 months. However, this varies depending on individual skincare and skin condition. For stem cell injections in other areas, it’s advisable to have a private consultation with a specialized doctor.

  • Stem cells can be injected in blood steam via intravenous infusion. Moreover, it can be injected locally in many areas such as the face, neck and other lesional skins. Bangkok Regenerative Center specializes in injecting stem cells into discs in the neck and back, as well as knees, bones, and other joints. It’s important to consult a specialized doctor prior.

Stem cell injections can be administered to various parts of the body depending on the medical condition being treated. Here are common sites and methods for stem cell injection:

 

Common Injection Sites and Their Uses:

  1. **Joints**:

   – **Knees, Shoulders, Hips, and Elbows**:

     – Used to treat osteoarthritis, cartilage damage, and tendon injuries.

     – Helps in reducing pain and inflammation and promoting tissue repair.

 

  1. **Spinal Disc and Vertebrae**:

   – **Lumbar and Cervical Spine**:

     – Used for conditions like degenerative disc disease and spinal cord injuries.

     – Aims to regenerate disc material and reduce chronic pain.

 

  1. **Muscles and Tendons**:

   – **Rotator Cuff, Achilles Tendon, and Other Muscle Injuries**:

     – Treats muscle tears, tendonitis, and tendinopathy.

     – Promotes healing and reduces inflammation.

 

  1. **Skin**:

   – **Dermal Layers**:

     – Used for wound healing, burn treatment, and cosmetic procedures like anti-aging treatments.

     – Enhances tissue regeneration and repair.

 

5.Intravenous (IV) Injection**:

   – **Systemic Administration**:

     – Used for conditions like autoimmune diseases, some types of cancers, and systemic inflammatory diseases.

     – Allows stem cells to travel throughout the body and target multiple sites.

 

6 Intrathecal Injection**:

   – Into the spinal canal.

   – Used for neurological conditions and spinal cord injuries.

Most stem cell infusions have to be aware of graft versus host disease or symptoms that are caused by stem cells not compatible with our body. However, at Bangkok Regenerative Center we use stem cells that do not represent self. So, it won’t cause any cell rejection symptoms. Anyway, possible side effects that might occur are headache, chill, drowsiness which is minimal and will resolve without treatment shortly after finishing Stem cell infusion.

  • The safety of stem cell injections depends on several factors, including the type of stem cells used, the condition being treated, the method of administration, and the source of the stem cells.
  • So, in order to have stem cell injection with high effect and no negative outcome, you have to make sure that stem cell come from a good source. At Bangkok Regenerative Center we can guarantee that. Since it a good source it won’t turn to teratoma or cause cancer 
  1. Continue living a healthy lifestyle by sleeping 8-10 hours per day.
  2. Avoid outdoor sports for at least 1-2 days.
  3. Avoid chelation therapy in the first week after stem cell injections.
  4. Avoid getting any vaccines for 1 month after receiving stem cell injections.
  5. Avoid drinking alcohol for 2-3 days.

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