What Are Stem Cells and How do they work?
Stem cells are a unique and powerful group of cells defined by two key abilities:
Self-Renewal: They can divide and make copies of themselves for long periods.
Differentiation: They can develop into specialized cells with specific functions, such as muscle cells, red blood cells, or brain cells.
In essence, when the body needs to repair or replace damaged tissues, stem cells can spring into action. They divide to produce new cells, which can then mature into the specific types of cells required to form tissues or organs.
Sources of Stem Cells
Peripheral Blood
Bone Marrow
Cord Blood
Umbilical Cord
Placenta and its appendages
In simpler terms: Think of stem cells as the body’s “master cells” or raw material. From them, all other cells with specialized functions are created. They are the foundation for every organ and tissue in your body.
How do stem cells work?
It is generally believed that stem cells can work through the following two mechanisms. First, the cell replacement effect, i.e., replacing and repairing dead or injured cells. Once stem cells enter the human body, due to their biological characteristics, they possess “injury tissue tropism,” meaning stem cells will “purposefully” migrate to the site of such lesions or cellular damage, replace and repair dead or injured cells, directly playing a role in repairing damaged tissue. For example, if our brain or spinal cord is injured, a large number of nerve cells die, and neurological function is lost. If we transplant stem cells at this time, these cells can automatically recognize the site of injury, actively migrate to that location, and then transform into the specific cells needed to repair the damage. This is the cell replacement effect.
Second, the cell secretion and trophic effect. A large number of scientific studies have proven that stem cells cultured in vitro can secrete over 100 kinds of cytokines required by the body. These cytokines participate in bone repair, immune regulation, hematopoietic regulation, and neurotrophic functions. They can repair and replace damaged nerve cells in the brain, allowing them to perform their proper functions. Simultaneously, they can improve the function of various body systems and enhance immunity.
