Stem Cell Therapy

GS Paper III Science and Technology

Context:

The Delhi High Court permitted two children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to undergo stem cell therapy for treatment of their condition.

About Stem Cell Therapy:

Stem cell therapy is a form of regenerative medicine designed to repair damaged cells within the body by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune system.
This phenomenon makes stem cell therapy a viable treatment option for various medical conditions.
It can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions, such as autoimmune, inflammatory, and neurological disorders.

What are Stem cells?

Stem cells are cells from which all other cells, with their respective specialised functions, are generated.
The human body, under certain conditions, “divides” stem cells to either create new stem cells or cells with specific functions, such as blood cells, brain cells, bone cells, muscle cells, etc.

Sources of Stem cells:

Embryonic Stem Cells (ESCs): These are derived from early-stage embryos and have the potential to become any cell type in the body.
- However, their use is ethically controversial and strictly regulated in many countries.
Adult Stem Cells: These are found in specific tissues and organs throughout the body and play a role in tissue maintenance and repair.
- For Example: It includes hematopoietic stem cells (found in bone marrow) and mesenchymal stem cells (found in various tissues like bone, fat, and dental pulp).
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs): These are adult cells that have been reprogrammed to behave like embryonic stem cells.
- They can be generated from a patient’s own cells, reducing the risk of rejection.

Applications of Stem Cell Therapy:

Regenerative Medicine: Repairing or replacing damaged tissues and organs, such as heart muscle, cartilage, or nerve cells.
Treatment of Chronic Diseases: Exploring potential treatments for conditions like diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and spinal cord injuries.
Immune Disorders: Modifying or enhancing the immune system to fight cancer or autoimmune diseases.
Orthopedics: Treating orthopedic injuries and conditions like osteoarthritis.
Cosmetic Procedures: Using stem cells for procedures like facial rejuvenation.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD):

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave.
Currently, there is no cure for ASD – treatments and therapies are geared towards managing symptoms and helping someone with ASD lead a happy and functional life.

News Source: The Indian Express