The Science & Research

Exploring possibilities through research, cultivation, manufacturing, and strategic collaboration to provide therapies and vaccines centered around regenerative medicine and immunotherapy.

Healthy Aging and Regenerative Medicine

Healthy aging and regenerative medicine are closely linked, as regenerative medicine has the potential to help address many of the health challenges associated with aging. As we age, our bodies naturally experience a decline in the function of various tissues and organs, which can lead to a range of age-related diseases and conditions. Regenerative medicine offers the potential to restore function to these tissues and organs through the use of stem cells, growth factors, and other cellular therapies.

For example, stem cell-based therapies have shown promise in treating age-related conditions such as osteoarthritis, Alzheimer's disease, and age-related macular degeneration. By harnessing the regenerative potential of stem cells, it may be possible to restore function to damaged or degenerating tissues and slow or even reverse the aging process.

In addition to regenerative therapies, lifestyle factors such as exercise, a healthy diet, and stress reduction can also play a critical role in healthy aging. These factors can help to support the body's natural regenerative processes and promote overall health and well-being.

Overall, the integration of regenerative medicine with lifestyle interventions has the potential to revolutionize the field of healthy aging, providing new tools and therapies to help people live longer, healthier lives.

The Impact of Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Aging

As we age, our body's cells undergo a series of changes, leading to the gradual decline of our organs' functions. This process, known as aging, is inevitable and has been the subject of numerous studies. Scientists are exploring various therapies to slow down the aging process, and one promising approach is the use of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs). In this article, we will discuss the impact of UC-MSCs on aging and how it works.

What is Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cell?

Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells are found in the Wharton's jelly of the umbilical cord, which connects the fetus to the placenta during pregnancy. These cells are known for their ability to self-renew and differentiate into various cell types, such as bone, cartilage, and fat cells. UC-MSCs are also known for their immunomodulatory properties, which make them useful in treating various diseases, including autoimmune disorders.

How do UC-MSCs Work for Aging?

UC-MSCs have the potential to regenerate damaged tissues and promote the growth of new blood vessels, which may improve organ function. As we age, our organs' functions decline, and the cells within them become less efficient. UC-MSCs can help counteract this process by replacing damaged cells with healthy ones and improving the microenvironment within organs. Additionally, UC-MSCs can secrete growth factors and anti-inflammatory cytokines, which may reduce inflammation and oxidative stress - two factors that contribute to aging.

What are the different treatment types for umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells?

There are various treatment types for umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs). These include autologous transplantation, allogeneic transplantation, and exosome therapy.

Autologous transplantation involves collecting and using the patient's own UC-MSCs for therapy. This approach eliminates the risk of rejection and transmission of infections from donors. However, the number and quality of UC-MSCs decrease with age, and the cells may also have accumulated genetic mutations, which can limit their effectiveness (if the age of the donor is high, there is a possibility of higher risk).

Allogeneic transplantation involves using UC-MSCs from a healthy donor for therapy. This approach is more commonly used than autologous transplantation, as it can provide a larger number of high-quality UC-MSCs.

Exosome therapy involves using the extracellular vesicles (exosomes) that UC-MSCs release. Exosomes contain various bioactive molecules, such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, that can modulate cell signalling and promote tissue repair and regeneration. Exosome therapy is considered safer and easier to administer than cell-based therapy, as it does not require live cells and can be delivered via injection or inhalation.

Each of these treatment types has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of therapy depends on the patient's condition and medical history. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment plan.

Allogeneic and autologous are terms used to describe different sources of stem cells for therapeutic purposes.

Autologous stem cells are derived from the patient's own body and are used for therapy. These cells are collected from a patient's bone marrow or peripheral blood and are then processed to obtain the desired type of stem cell. Autologous stem cell therapy is often used in situations where the patient's own cells can be used for repair and regeneration, such as in certain types of cancer or autoimmune diseases.

In contrast, allogeneic stem cells are derived from a different individual, typically a donor, and are used for therapy. Allogeneic stem cell therapy is often used in situations where the patient's own cells are not suitable for therapy, or where a larger number of cells are needed. For example, allogeneic stem cell therapy may be used for patients with blood or immune system disorders.

The main advantage of autologous stem cell therapy is that there is no risk of rejection or transmission of infections from a donor. However, the quality and quantity of cells may be limited by the patient's age and health status. In contrast, allogeneic stem cell therapy can provide a larger number of high-quality cells, but there is a risk of rejection and transmission of infections from the donor.

In summary, the main difference between allogeneic and autologous stem cell therapy is the source of the stem cells used for therapy. Both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of therapy depends on the patient's medical condition and treatment goals.

The terms "intramuscular" and "intravenous" refer to different routes of drug administration.

Intramuscular (IM) administration involves injecting a drug into a muscle. This method allows for the drug to be absorbed into the bloodstream slowly and steadily over time. IM injections are commonly used for vaccines, antibiotics, and pain medications.

Intravenous (IV) administration involves injecting a drug directly into a vein. This method allows for the drug to be rapidly and completely absorbed into the bloodstream, producing a quick and potent effect. IV injections are commonly used for emergency medications, chemotherapy drugs, and fluids for hydration or nutrition.

The choice of administration route depends on the drug being used, the desired effect, and the patient's medical condition. For example, a patient with severe pain may receive an IM injection of pain medication for long-lasting relief, while a patient in shock may receive IV fluids to rapidly restore blood volume and blood pressure.

In summary, the main difference between intramuscular and intravenous administration is the route of drug delivery. IM injections are slower and longer lasting, while IV injections are faster and more potent.

Intramuscular

Intravenous

What are the different sources of stem cells, and which is the best source for aging?

There are several sources of stem cells, including embryonic, fetal, umbilical cord, and adult tissues. Embryonic stem cells are derived from the inner cell mass of a blastocyst, a very early-stage embryo. Fetal stem cells are derived from fetal tissues, such as the liver, bone marrow, or brain. Umbilical cord stem cells are collected from the umbilical cord blood or tissue after birth. Adult stem cells are found in various tissues throughout the body, such as the bone marrow, adipose tissue, and skin.

The best source of stem cells for aging is a matter of ongoing research and debate. Each source of stem cells has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the type of therapy and the patient's medical condition.

Embryonic and fetal stem cells have the greatest potential for differentiation into various cell types, but their use is controversial due to ethical concerns, limited availability and high potential or cancer cells formation.

Umbilical cord stem cells are a promising source of stem cells for aging therapy because they are easily obtained, have low risk of rejection, and are less likely to carry genetic mutations or infections. They can differentiate into various cell types and can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including neurological disorders, immune system disorders, and age-related diseases.

Adult stem cells have limited differentiation potential but are easier to obtain and have low risk of rejection. They can be used to treat certain types of cancer, bone and joint disorders, and tissue damage caused by injury or disease.

In summary, the best source of stem cells for aging therapy depends on the specific treatment goals and the patient's medical condition. Umbilical cord stem cells are a promising source due to their ease of collection and potential for differentiation, but further research is needed to determine their long-term safety and efficacy.

The difference between "frozen" and "live" stem cells is in their state of preservation.

Frozen stem cells are typically cryopreserved and stored in liquid nitrogen at very low temperatures. This slows down or stops all cellular activity, including metabolism and growth, which helps to preserve the stem cells for long periods of time.

Live stem cells, on the other hand, are fresh and active stem cells that have not been frozen or stored. They are usually obtained from a donor or from the patient's own tissues and can be used immediately or after a short period of culturing and expansion in the laboratory.

Both frozen and live stem cells have their own advantages and disadvantages. Frozen stem cells can be stored for long periods of time, making them readily available for future treatments and reducing the need for repeated collections. However, the freezing and thawing process can damage the stem cells, reducing their viability and potency.

Live stem cells, on the other hand, are generally considered more effective for immediate use in treatments. They are fresh, active, and have not been damaged by the freezing process. However, their availability is more limited, as they need to be obtained from a donor or from the patient's own tissues, and they cannot be stored for long periods of time.

In summary, the main difference between frozen and live stem cells is their state of preservation. Frozen stem cells are cryopreserved and stored for long periods of time, while live stem cells are fresh and immediately available for use. Each type of stem cell has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the specific treatment goals and the patient's medical condition.

Here are the top 5 critical advantages and disadvantages of frozen stem cells:

Long-term storage: Frozen stem cells can be stored for long periods of time, which makes them readily available for future use in treatments without the need for repeated collections. This is particularly useful for individuals who want to preserve their stem cells for potential future therapies.
Availability: Frozen stem cells are available in large quantities, which makes them easier to obtain and use in treatments compared to fresh stem cells.
Reduced risk of contamination: Cryopreservation helps to reduce the risk of contamination by pathogens and other harmful agents, which can compromise the quality of stem cells.
Lower cost: The cost of storing frozen stem cells is generally lower than the cost of obtaining and processing fresh stem cells.
Greater flexibility: Frozen stem cells can be used in a variety of treatments, including experimental and clinical trials, as well as in personalized medicine.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Loss of viability and potency: The freezing and thawing process can damage stem cells, reducing their viability and potency and impacting their therapeutic potential.
Limited lifespan: Although frozen stem cells can be stored for long periods of time, their lifespan is still limited. Over time, the stem cells may lose their ability to proliferate and differentiate, making them less effective in treatments.
High upfront costs: The initial cost of processing and storing stem cells can be high, which may be a barrier for some individuals who want to preserve their stem cells for future use.
Risk of cell damage during storage: Despite cryopreservation being designed to protect the stem cells, there is still a risk of damage during storage and transport, which can affect the quality of the stem cells.
Limited use in certain therapies: Frozen stem cells may not be suitable for certain types of therapies, such as those that require large quantities of fresh, active stem cells.

Here are the top 5 critical advantages and disadvantages of live stem cells:

Higher viability and potency: Live stem cells have higher viability and potency than frozen stem cells, making them more effective in treatments.
Immediate availability: Live stem cells can be used immediately after collection, which can be important in emergency situations or when time is a critical factor.
Greater potential for differentiation: Live stem cells have a greater potential for differentiation into different cell types, which can increase their therapeutic potential in certain treatments.
Improved patient outcomes: Live stem cells have been shown to improve patient outcomes in some clinical trials, particularly in the treatment of certain diseases and conditions.
Reduced risk of complications: The use of live stem cells can reduce the risk of complications associated with cryopreservation, such as damage to the cells during freezing or thawing.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Limited availability: Live stem cells may not always be available when needed, especially in cases where the stem cells are being collected from the patient's own body.
Short shelf life: Live stem cells have a limited shelf life, which means that they must be used quickly after collection before they lose their potency and viability.
Higher cost: The cost of collecting and processing live stem cells can be higher than the cost of storing frozen stem cells.
Risk of contamination: Live stem cells may be at risk of contamination during collection and processing, which can compromise their quality and safety if stringent quality control protocols are not adhered to.
Limited flexibility: Live stem cells may not be suitable for all types of treatments, especially those that require large quantities of stem cells or for those that require specialized handling and processing.

What is a “passage” in the context of stem cells?

In the context of stem cells, a "passage" refers to the number of times a cell culture has been sub-cultured or split. When stem cells are isolated and cultured in the laboratory, they are typically grown in a special medium that contains nutrients and growth factors to promote their proliferation. As the cells grow and divide, they form a population of cells known as a cell line.

During the passage process, stem cells are grown and divided in a culture dish, often with the addition of specific growth factors or nutrients. Each round of growth and division is referred to as a "passage." With each passage, the stem cells become more specialized and can lose some of their stem cell properties, such as their ability to differentiate into different cell types.

Researchers and clinicians often track the passage number of stem cells to ensure that they are using cells that are at the appropriate stage of development for their intended purpose. This information can also be used to monitor the quality and consistency of stem cell cultures over time.

Stem cell-based treatments have the potential to address a wide range of medical conditions, including:

Blood and immune system disorders: Stem cell transplants have been used to treat various types of blood and immune system disorders, such as leukaemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and sickle cell anaemia.
Neurological disorders: Stem cells have the ability to differentiate into various types of cells, including neurons, which has led to their investigation as a potential treatment for neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries.
Orthopaedic injuries: Stem cells have been used in the treatment of orthopaedic injuries such as cartilage damage, ligament and tendon injuries, and fractures. They have shown promise in accelerating the healing process and improving outcomes.
Autoimmune disorders: Stem cell-based therapies have been investigated for the treatment of autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and scleroderma. The immunomodulatory properties of stem cells may help to regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.
Cardiac and vascular disorders: Stem cells have been explored for the treatment of cardiac and vascular disorders such as heart failure and peripheral artery disease. They may help to regenerate damaged heart tissue and improve blood flow.
Eye disorders: Stem cells have shown potential for the treatment of various eye disorders such as macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, and corneal damage. They may help to replace damaged or diseased cells in the eye and improve vision.

What is the difference between normoxic and hypoxic stem cells?

Normoxic stem cells are stem cells that can survive and function in environments with normal oxygen levels, while hypoxic stem cells require low oxygen levels to survive.

Hypoxic stem cells are typically found in areas of the body with limited oxygen, such as bone marrow or the brain. These cells have been studied extensively and proven to have a higher potential to regenerate damaged tissues and treat a range of diseases and injuries via the generation of HIF-1a during hypoxia.

HIF-1a is known as hypoxia-inducible factor-1alpha and is an oxygen-dependent transcriptional activator. It mainly involves cell proliferation, cell survival, and angiogenesis. With this component in a hypoxic environment, hypoxic stem cells can perform a better regenerative ability than normoxic stem cells. Besides, most human organs experience low oxygen concentration, known as physoxia/physoxic environment, all the time. Infusing hypoxic stem cells into the body shows high survivability and adaptability than normoxic stem cells. Therefore, physoxia-preconditioning the stem cells in an oxygen-controlling isolator before infusion has become a novel cultivation trend in regenerative medicine.

What are the Benefits of UC-MSCs for Aging?

UC-MSCs have been shown to improve various age-related conditions, such as osteoporosis, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease. In a recent study, researchers found that UC-MSCs could increase the lifespan of aging mice by up to 36%. Additionally, UC-MSCs have been shown to improve cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and enhance wound healing.

Are there any Risks associated with UC-MSC Therapy?

UC-MSC therapy is considered safe. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks. The most significant concern is the possibility of infection or rejection of the transplanted cells. To minimize the risk, UC-MSCs are typically sourced from healthy donors and undergo strict testing and quality control procedures such as viability and purity tests, safety and sterility tests, and functionality tests. All these tests ensure the stemness and safety of UC-MSC to inject into the patients.

Stem Cells as an effective form of Regenerative Medicine

Stem cell-based treatments have the potential to be a highly effective form of regenerative medicine, but it is important to note that their use is still in the early stages of development and more research is currently in place to fully understand their safety and efficacy.

One of the main advantages of stem cell-based treatments is their ability to differentiate into a wide range of cell types, which can be used to regenerate damaged tissues and organs. Stem cells can be obtained from a variety of sources, including embryonic tissue, adult tissue, and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs).

Stem cell-based treatments have shown promising results in treating a range of conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders. However, there are also challenges and limitations associated with the use of stem cells, such as the risk of immune rejection, ethical considerations related to the use of embryonic stem cells, and the potential for uncontrolled cell growth.

Despite these challenges, stem cell-based treatments have the potential to revolutionize regenerative medicine and provide new treatments for a range of diseases and injuries. Hopefully, this novel treatment can be helpful to patients with incurable diseases soon. At that time, the challenge faced will be just the method for the mass production of stem cells. However, it can be solved in just a minute with a bioreactor, and this research is getting popular nowadays.

Conclusion

UC-MSCs show great promise as a therapy for aging-related conditions. Their ability to regenerate damaged tissues, promote the growth of new blood vessels, and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress makes them an attractive option for improving organ function and overall health. However, further studies are needed to fully understand the potential of UC-MSC therapy and its long-term effects.

Research

Our Stem Cell Laboratory in Balakong is where innovation and advanced research converge to revolutionize the field of regenerative medicine. It serves a vital purpose in conducting cutting-edge iAge tests, optimization, and product design, harnessing the unparalleled potential of stem cells. Our dedicated team of scientists and researchers continues to push the boundaries of science, working tirelessly to develop innovative solutions that address various medical challenges in the field of regenerative medicine. In addition to our research endeavors, we are also committed to providing our team with training to stay abreast on the latest developments and techniques in stem cell research.