Cell therapy

Cell therapy refers to the process of introducing new cells into a tissue in order to treat a disease. Cell therapies often focus on the treatment of hereditary diseases, with or without the use of stem cells. There are two distinct types of cell therapy including hematopoietic (for blood and immune diseases) and somatic (for all other diseases).

History

The concept of cell therapy dates back to the 19th century when scientists theorized that cellular material, such as organ and tissue extracts, could be used to treat various diseases. However, it was not until the mid-20th century that significant advancements in cell therapy were made, particularly in the field of hematology.

Types of Cell Therapy

Hematopoietic Cell Therapy

Hematopoietic cell therapy involves the transplantation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). These cells are typically derived from bone marrow, peripheral blood, or umbilical cord blood. This form of cell therapy is commonly used in the treatment of conditions such as leukemia and lymphoma.

Somatic Cell Therapy

Somatic cell therapy involves the transplantation of cells other than hematopoietic cells. This can include fibroblasts (a type of cell found in connective tissue), keratinocytes (a type of cell found in the skin), chondrocytes (a type of cell found in cartilage), and various other cell types. Somatic cell therapy is often used in the treatment of conditions such as Parkinson's disease, diabetes, and heart disease.

Techniques

Cell therapy techniques vary depending on the specific type of cell being transplanted. However, most techniques involve the extraction of healthy cells from a donor, followed by the cultivation and expansion of these cells in a laboratory. The cells are then transplanted into the patient, either directly or via a blood transfusion.

Future of Cell Therapy

The future of cell therapy looks promising, with ongoing research into the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and gene therapy. These advancements could potentially allow for the treatment of a wider range of diseases and conditions.

See Also

• Stem cell therapy
• Gene therapy
• Regenerative medicine